famous places in scotland to visit

The 14 best places to visit in Scotland

Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read

Pack your camping gear (and your rainproofs) and head to some of the best places to visit in Scotland © Robert Coppinger / Shutterstock

Some of the best places to visit in Scotland will be instantly familiar to anyone who’s ever gazed at a whisky label or shortbread tin. Think dramatic peaks, lonely glens, lochs, tartan and haggis!

From spectacular Skye and historic Edinburgh to the rolling rivers of Speyside, Scotland’s big sights are as glorious as you’d imagine. But scratch the surface of this proud nation and you’ll find a varied and engrossing place, dotted with prehistoric villages, wild clubs, rich seafood and ruined abbeys.

So, where to start? Once you've decided on the best time for your visit , you need to decide on the best places to go while you're there. Here is our pick of the best destinations in Scotland to get you started.

1. Edinburgh

Best place for year-round entertainment

Scotland's capital may be famous for its festivals, but there's much more to the city than that. Edinburgh is a place of many moods: visit in spring to see the Old Town silhouetted against a blue sky and a yellow haze of daffodils, or on a chill winter’s day for fog snagging the spires of the Royal Mile, rain on the cobblestones, and a warm glow beckoning from the windows of local pubs. With a world-class modern art gallery , top museums , spooky historic sites and a majestic 12th-century castle , there's plenty to keep you entertained whatever the season.

Local tip: Start your visit to Edinburgh with a climb up Arthur's Seat , an extinct volcano for panoramic views over the city.

2. West Highland Way

Best place for long-distance hiking

The best way to really get inside Scotland's landscapes is to walk them. Here, peaks tower over lochs and sea cliffs gaze over the wind-whipped sea, but there are short woodland trails and charming strolls through valleys dusted with purple heather, too. Top of the wish list for many hikers is the 96-mile West Highland Way from Milngavie (near Glasgow) to Fort William , a weeklong walk through some of the country's finest scenery, finishing in the shadow of its highest peak, Ben Nevis.

If you don’t have the time or energy for a long-distance trek, it's possible to do just a day's hike along part of the trail. For example, you could walk the section from Rowardennan to Inversnaid, returning to your starting point using the Loch Lomond waterbus . Whichever section you take on, pack waterproofs and midge repellent. Rail lovers should note that sleeper trains run south from Fort William all the way to London, making for an easy exit after a walk.

Detour:  The 1,345m (4,413ft) summit of Ben Nevis is within reach of anyone who's reasonably fit: treat the peak with respect and your reward (weather permitting) will be magnificent views that can stretch as far as Northern Ireland.

3. North Coast 500

Best place for a scenic road trip

Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands , but the far north is where things become truly awe-inspiring. This is the best place in Scotland to explore by car (you can also cycle it), with some of the finest roadside scenery in Europe.

The North Coast 500 starts and ends in the likable city of Inverness , and loops past the lochs, sand dunes and golf courses of the east coast before taking in the remote cliffs and beaches of Cape Wrath, the rugged peaks of Assynt and Torridon’s desolate beauty. These sights, and the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in the region's classic rural pubs and old crofting villages, make this an unforgettable weeklong tour.

4. Isle of Skye

Best place for photographers

In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes the top prize. From the craggy peaks of the Cuillins and the bizarre pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing to the spectacular sea cliffs of Neist Point, there's a photo opportunity awaiting you at almost every turn.

Skye is also one of the best places in Scotland to see golden eagles, and you’ll find convivial pubs and top seafood restaurants if you can tear your eyes from the natural world. Of course, all this tourist appeal makes Skye one of Scotland's most popular destinations. The crowds tend to stick to Portree , Dunvegan and Trotternish – it’s almost always possible to find peace and quiet in the island’s further-flung corners.

Planning tip:  Come prepared for changeable weather – when it’s fine, it’s very fine indeed, but all too often it isn’t.

5. Loch Lomond

Best place for a lakeside hike

Despite being less than an hour's drive from the bustle and sprawl of Glasgow, the bonnie braes (banks) of Loch Lomond – immortalized in the words of one of Scotland's best-known songs – comprise one of the most scenic parts of the country.

At the heart of Scotland's first national park , the loch begins as a broad, island-peppered lake in the south, its shores clothed in bluebell-sprinkled woods before narrowing in the north to a fjord-like trench ringed by mountains.

Detour: The summit of Ben Lomond (974m/3,031ft) is a popular climb – follow the well-maintained path for a 7-mile round-trip on the popular Tourist Route (allow around 5 hours).

Best place for live music and pub culture

Scotland's biggest city may lack Edinburgh's stunning setting, but it more than makes up for it with a barrelful of things to do and a warmth and energy that leaves every visitor impressed. Edgy and contemporary, it's a great spot to browse art galleries and museums , and to discover the works of local design hero Charles Rennie Mackintosh .

Glasgow’s infectious vitality is best sampled via its lively pubs and clubs, which host one of the world's great live music scenes.

Local tip:  Check out upcoming (mostly alt-rock) acts at the Barrowland  (crowned the UK's best music venue by Time Out magazine in 2023), a legendary former ballroom, or try the Sub Club for house and techno, the Clutha Bar for roots and rock, or Nice N Sleazy , a classic indie dive.

7. Stirling

Best place for castle fans

With an impregnable position atop a mighty wooded crag – the plug of an extinct volcano – Stirling ’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings and cobbled streets winding up to the ramparts of Stirling Castle . This fortress has seen serious action – it was bombarded by the Warwolf, a giant 14th-century English siege engine, and was besieged during the 1745 Jacobite rising, as well as sending troops to the battle of Bannockburn (the decisive battle celebrated at the end of Braveheart ), just a few miles south.

Today, views that stretch to the Highlands, glorious tapestries and juicy history make this Scotland’s best castle – and a great family attraction.

Planning tip:  It's best to visit in the afternoon; many tourists come on day trips, so you may have the castle almost to yourself by 4pm.

8. St Andrews

Best place for golfers

Scotland invented the game of golf, and the city of  St Andrews is still revered as its spiritual home by hackers and champions alike. Links courses are the classic experience here – bumpy coastal affairs where the rough is heather and machair (coastal grass) and the main enemy is the wind, which can make a disaster of a promising round in an instant.

St Andrews, the historic Fife university town, is golf's headquarters , and an irresistible destination for anyone who loves the sport. And if you're not so keen, well, the city has impressive medieval ruins , stately university buildings , idyllic white sands and excellent guesthouses and restaurants .

9. Skara Brae

Best place for lovers of ancient history

When visiting ancient sites, it can sometimes be difficult to bridge the gulf of years or build a connection with the people that built them, but Scotland’s superb prehistoric remains have an immediate impact. Few places offer a better glimpse of everyday Stone Age life than Skara Brae in Orkney  with its carefully constructed fireplaces, beds, cupboards and water cisterns.

This Neolithic village – which, at 5,000 years is older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Giza – lay buried in coastal sand dunes for centuries. Even today, it can feel as though the inhabitants have just slipped out to go fishing and could return at any moment.

10. Glen Coe

Best place for clan history

Scotland's most famous glen combines two essential qualities of the Highlands: dramatic scenery and a deep sense of history. The peace and beauty of this valley today belies the fact that Glen Coe was the scene of a ruthless 17th-century massacre, when the local MacDonalds were murdered by soldiers of the Campbell clan.

Some of the glen's finest walks – to the Lost Valley, for example – follow the routes taken by fleeing clanspeople, many of whom perished in the snow.

Planning tip:  Start at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for more information on this beautiful place and its tragic history.

11. Perthshire

Best place to enjoy nature's bounty

In Perthshire , the heart of Scotland, picturesque towns bloom with flowers, distilleries emit tempting malty odors and sheep graze in impossibly green meadows. There's a feeling of the bounty of nature that no other place in Scotland can replicate.

Blue-gray lochs shimmer, reflecting the changing moods of the weather; centuries-old trees tower amid riverside forests; majestic glens scythe their way into remote wildernesses; and salmon leap upriver to the place of their birth.

12. Shetland Islands

Best place for birdwatching

Close enough to Norway to make Scottish nationality an ambiguous concept, the Shetland Islands are Britain’s most northerly outpost. The stirringly bleak setting – recognized as a precious UNESCO geopark – still feels uniquely Scottish though, with deep, naked glens flanked by steep hills, twinkling, sky-blue lochs and, of course, wandering sheep on the little-trafficked roads. It's the birdlife, however, that really draws visitors here.

From their first arrival in late spring to the raucous feeding frenzies of high summer, the vast colonies of gannets, guillemots, skua, puffins and kittiwakes at Hermaness , Noss, Sumburgh Head and Fair Isle provide some of Britain's most impressive birdwatching experiences.

Local tip: Shetland is one of the best places in the UK to spot orcas (and the Northern Lights).

13. Speyside

Best place for whisky tasting

Scotland's national drink is whisky – from the Gaelic uisge beatha , meaning “water of life” – and this fiery spirit has been distilled here for more than 500 years. More than 50 distilleries are in operation in Speyside, Scotland's most famous whisky area, famed for fruity, lightly spicy flavors (head over to Islay for peatier varieties).

Ask at the Whisky Museum about the Malt Whisky Trail, a self-guided tour around the local distilleries. If you just have time for one, the Balvenie Distillery is a good bet as it still uses a traditional malting floor – the smell is glorious!

Planning tip:  Dufftown lies at the heart of the region and is host to the biannual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

14. The Scotland Borders

Best place for a country ramble

Many visitors to Scotland race up to Edinburgh and then hightail it to the Highlands, missing the Scottish Borders entirely . That's their loss. Once fought over by war chiefs and cattle thieves, the Borders region is rich in history and packed with good cycling and hiking routes.

There are grand country houses, too – Traquair House brews Jacobite Ale and has a concealed room that once hid Catholic priests – and a series of gorgeous ruined abbeys – Gothic Melrose Abbey is the best – plus birds and sea cliffs at St Abb’s Head. More active types can fish for salmon or thunder down the mountain bike trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.

This article was first published May 2021 and updated November 2023

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Scotland

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Think of Scotland, and you'll likely conjure up images of tartan-kilted Highlanders, skirling bagpipes, the Loch Ness Monster, lonely castles, golf, magnificent scenery, and shaggy Highland cattle. All of these are part of the mystique of this unique country, but also (apart from Nessie), a very real preview of what tourists can expect to see here.

You can explore Scotland by boat, on foot along its trails, on scenic train rides, or touring by car, and each experience will lead to unforgettable memories. History is everywhere as your sightseeing adventures take you to the impressive castles and fabled battlefields where clans fought, see you trace the footsteps of legendary kings and queens, or follow literary trails blazed by Robbie Burns and Sir Walter Scott .

Another of Scotland's great attractions is its solitude, with its remote stretches of heather-covered moors, secluded beaches , and wild, romantic mountains with their deep glens and lochs.

Whatever time of year you visit and wherever you choose to go, whether Scotland's vibrant cities , historic towns, or remote moors and islands, you'll find they are all filled with memorable things to see and do.

Plan your trip to some of the best places to visit in the UK with our list of the top attractions in Scotland.

1. Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile

2. loch lomond, 3. cruising loch ness and the caledonian canal, 4. the royal yacht britannia, edinburgh, 5. isle of skye and the inner hebrides, 6. stirling castle, 7. kelvingrove art gallery and museum, glasgow, 8. golf at st. andrews, 9. fort william & ben nevis, 10. riverside museum and tall ship, glasgow, 11. the scottish highlands, 12. isle of arran, 13. visit the site of the battle of culloden, 14. robbie burns country: the burns heritage trail, ayr, 15. the kelpies and the falkirk wheel, best time to visit scotland, more must-see destinations in scotland.

The stone towers and walls of Edinburgh Castle have dominated the Edinburgh skyline since the 13th century. Perched atop black basalt rock, it offers magnificent views of the city and a trip through Scotland's tumultuous history.

Highlights of Edinburgh Castle are the spectacular Crown Jewels, the famous Stone of Destiny (the Stone of Scone), and St. Margaret's Chapel, built in 1130 and the oldest building in Edinburgh. You'll enter the castle over a drawbridge across an old moat from the broad Esplanade , where the famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo is held every August. Bronze statues of legendary heroes William Wallace and Robert the Bruce seem to keep watch over the castle gates.

Below, a stroll along the Royal Mile remains one of the top free things to do in Edinburgh . Stretching down the steep escarpment, the Royal Mile leads to the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse, another of Edinburgh's most famous landmarks. Be sure to allow some time in your Edinburgh itinerary to visit neighboring Holyrood Park, undoubtedly one of the city's top parks and green spaces to explore.

Lined by brick townhouses and historic landmarks, the Royal Mile is another highlight of a visit. Filled with small shops, kilt makers, tearooms, museums, and cafés, between its tall buildings, some reaching more than 10 stories on the downhill side, are narrow little alleys waiting to be explored. Called "winds," they weave between tiny hidden closes and are no end of fun.

Be sure to also include the National Museum of Scotland in your Edinburgh itinerary, too. One of Scotland's top attractions, this fun, free museum includes everything from medieval artifacts to displays relating to art and science.

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

Idyllic Loch Lomond, just a short drive northwest of Glasgow, is Britain's largest lake. According to Scots author Walter Scott, it's also "The Queen of Scottish Lakes." With an abundance of trout, salmon, and whitefish as a lure for anglers; water sports adventures; and plenty of open space for hikers, this beautiful corner of Scotland is also a favorite day trip from the city .

Boat trips and cruises are popular things to do in Loch Lomond, as are lakeside rambles and longer treks up majestic Ben Lomond (3,192 feet). From here you'll enjoy spectacular views across the Trossachs National Park .

The latest attraction to be added here is Loch Lomond Shores , home to a great shopping mall selling local crafts, a farmers market, restaurants, and bike and boat rentals. A major draw here is the Loch Lomond SEA LIFE Aquarium . In addition to its displays of native marine life, this family-friendly attraction houses Scotland's biggest shark tank. Weather permitting, be sure to pay a visit to the rooftop.

Loch Lomond is a good first stop on a tour from Glasgow along the Western Highland Way through the Argyll countryside to Fort William . Savor the romance of a Scottish country estate at Cameron House at the south end of the loch, where you can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities that include its lakeshore golf course.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do around Loch Lomond

Think of Loch Ness and you'll probably picture the mythical monster that, according to legend, has made this 23-mile-long loch home for countless centuries. The largest body of water in Scotland's Great Glen , Loch Ness is part of a waterway connecting the east and west coasts of Scotland.

It and three other lochs are joined together by the Caledonian Canal, which you can cruise on short excursions from, or on a six-hour voyage from one end to the other. These fun canal cruises from Dochgarroch take you through the canal locks that adjust the varying water levels.

The canal and each of the lochs is surrounded by some of the most beautiful Highland scenery, but no part is more scenic than Loch Ness itself, with the romantic ruins of Urquhart Castle on its hillside above the water. The center of many ancient myths, the 12th-century castle fell victim to a fire some 500 years later.

The best views of the castle are from the water, and you can arrive by boat or drift past on a Loch Ness cruise. Fueling the Nessie legend with exhibits and accounts of sightings, Loch Ness Exhibition at Drumnadrochit Hotel also has interesting information on the geological formation of Loch Ness and the surrounding area. The castle, the canal, and Loch Ness are easily accessible from Inverness .

While getting to Loch Ness from Edinburgh or Glasgow can take a few hours, it's certainly worth the effort, especially if you plan on making a fun Scottish weekend break of it.

• Read More: Visiting Loch Ness: Top Attractions & Tours

For more than 40 years, the Royal Yacht Britannia was a floating royal residence, traveling more than 1,000,000 miles around the world. Glimpse the life of the royal family, their guests, and the crew as you explore Britannia's five main decks with an audio tour, visiting the Bridge, State Apartments and Royal Bedrooms, Crew's Quarters, and Engine Room.

You can also see the Rolls-Royce Phantom V that used to travel onboard, and stop for afternoon tea and cakes in the Royal Deck Tea Room. Newly added to the attraction in 2019 is the Fingal Hotel , offering luxury accommodations set in a former lighthouse tender berthed next to the royal yacht.

Address: Ocean Drive, Edinburgh

The largest of Scotland's inner isles, Skye is especially popular with birders, ramblers, and nature lovers. Its wild, romantic mountain scenery is marked by green valleys, caves, lonely glens, some of Scotland's best sandy beaches , and rushing waterfalls. It's a quite remarkable variety of beautiful scenery for an island that's just 50 miles long and never more than 15 miles wide.

The island also has the remains of primeval oak forests, as well as an abundance of wildlife that includes otters, seals, and at least 200 species of birds. Getting to Skye is easy, as it's connected to the mainland via a bridge. For added fun, you can also get here by ferry.

The other islands in the Inner Hebrides include, among others, Islay, Jura, Mull, Raasay, Staffa, and Iona. Getting to Iona is a bit more complicated, requiring two ferry rides but is tremendously rewarding. This is considered Scotland's "Cradle of Christianity" as it was here that St. Columba arrived from Ireland in the 6th century to spread the gospel.

A 12th-century church, atmospheric ruins of an abbey, and a carved stone memorial from the 10th century are among its attractions. It's also home to Scotland's oldest Christian cemetery , with graves of more than 60 Scottish kings, including Macbeth.

Make sure you allocate a little time to explore Portree, too. One of the prettiest small towns in Scotland , Portree's charming natural harbor is the place to buy some fresh seafood or simply watch the world go by. Better still, from here you can join a fun fishing trip to catch some fish of your own.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on the Isle of Skye

The palace of James V and childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots , Stirling Castle is one of the best-preserved Renaissance buildings in the UK. It's also an excellent day trip destination from Edinburgh , just an hour to the east, or from Glasgow , 45 minutes to the south.

While some earlier structures still stand, the castle's grand halls and rooms are carefully restored and furnished to their 1500s appearance, even to painstaking reproductions of its tapestries. Costumed interpreters interact with visitors to bring the castle and its history to life, and History Hunter programs on weekends are designed for young explorers.

Situated between Edinburgh and Glasgow, Stirling is famous for the Battle of Bannockburn , which saw Robert the Bruce defeat the English invaders in 1314, as well as the Battle of Stirling Bridge , a victory for Scottish independence secured by the legendary William Wallace. The splendid Bannockburn Heritage Centre offers excellent displays and exhibits regarding this important era.

Between Stirling and Bridge of Allan stands the majestic Wallace Monument , a spectacular 246-step tower with incredible views of the area. You'll also see a number of artifacts said to have belonged to the great Wallace himself.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Stirling

Since a fire devastated much of the work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh at the Glasgow School of Art, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum has become the primary destination for admirers of the Glasgow Style, a distinctive part of the Arts & Crafts movement and Art Nouveau styles of the early 20th century.

Created and opened shortly before the fire, the Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Style Gallery includes several entire Mackintosh rooms, as well as works by other prominent artists of the movement.

Along with other notable treasures-a Van Gogh portrait, Bronze Age tools and jewelry from Arran and Kintyre, a 1944 Mark 21 Spitfire is also on display. You'll also want to see the magnificent 1901 organ used for daily free concerts -one of the museum's most popular exhibits is Salvador Dali's Christ of St. John of the Cross .

Visiting off-season? Glasgow's also one of the top places to visit in Scotland in winter , with its many museums and cultural attractions hosting special seasonal events and programs. Some of the city's parks and public spaces take on new life as skating rinks and Christmas markets, too.

Address: Argyle Street, Glasgow

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Glasgow

The Scots lay claim to many inventions, including the bicycle, postage stamps, telephones, and steam engines. But perhaps their most enduring invention is the game of golf. One of the lifetime dreams of dedicated golfers is to play the much-revered The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews .

Just 12 miles southeast of Dundee , it was founded in 1750 and recognized internationally as golf's ruling body. Today, St. Andrews regularly hosts the famous British Open at one of its many 18-hole courses, the most famous of which is the par-72 Old Course running alongside the rugged coast.

Although tee times are often reserved six months in advance, some are kept available by lottery two days in advance for those who don't have reservations. Worth visiting are the majestic old Clubhouse and the British Golf Museum , which documents the history of the "home of golf" from the Middle Ages to the present day.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in St. Andrews

The best place to explore Ben Nevis, Britain's tallest mountain, is from the picturesque town of Fort William.

Situated at the southeastern end of the Caledonian Canal, this coastal town can trace its roots back to the original fort built here in the 17th century. Although since long gone, the history of the fort can be explored in the West Highland Museum , along with sizable collections of paintings, Highland costumes, and weaponry.

A must-do is hop aboard The Jacobite steam train . Made famous by the Harry Potter movie franchise, the train follows the West Highland Line over the spectacular Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Then, there's Ben Nevis. Easy to discern from Fort William on a clear day, it's an impressive sight, and one that draws many a-hiker, both amateur and hardcore alike. Despite its elevation, the ascent can be achieved in around 2.5 hours. And it's well worth it for the spectacular views, extending as far as 150 miles across the Scottish Highlands and as far as Ireland .

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

One of Scotland's most visited attractions, the free Riverside Museum in Glasgow gathers together the history of transportation by land and water in an eye-catching new venue. During the course of a visit, you'll see trams, locomotives, buses, horse-drawn carriages, and vintage cars, along with ships and other models.

A highlight is the authentic reconstruction of 1938 Glasgow streets , with shops you can enter, and platforms leading up to all the locomotives on display. In all, more than 20 interactive displays and 90 large touch screens add images, recollections, and films that bring added meaning to the collections.

Outside on the River Clyde, you can board the S. S. Glenlee , a tall ship built in 1896 . It has the distinction of being the only Clyde-built ship still sailing in Britain.

Address: 100 Pointhouse Place, Glasgow

The Scottish Highlands have a mystique born of rugged, untamed landscapes and a long history, at once violent yet romantic. Sparsely inhabited, these mountains and rocky shores are loved equally by hikers and bikers and by those who enjoy fishing, golf, sea kayaking, white-water rafting, gorge walking, and other outdoor adventures in Britain's largest area of outstanding natural beauty.

Sprinkled through it are lovely little villages and towns with lodging and eating places. Stop in the tiny coastal village of Dornoch to see its cathedral and castle ruins, and in John o'Groats, overlooking the Pentland Firth, where a much-photographed sign proclaims it the northernmost point of Britain . From here, you're 874 miles from the country's southernmost point at Land's End in Cornwall.

If you've rented a car and have plenty of time on your hands, you can explore the Scottish Highlands via a fun new tourist route, the North Coast 500 . While you could do it faster, we'd advise you spend at least five days to a week to see everything there is to see along this spectacular driving route.

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

The lovely Isle of Arran is called "Scotland in Miniature" for good reason. This picture-perfect island off the country's west coast mirrors the landscapes of the entire country in an area of scarcely 166 square miles.

Here, you can find rolling moors, rugged mountains, sandy beaches, fishing harbors, castles, and golf courses, all less than an hour's ferry ride from Glasgow. While you could see some of the best bits of Arran as a day trip, you'd do better to allow a day or two's sightseeing to make sure you get the most from your visit.

Best of all, there's no need for a car because buses run regularly around the island, connecting its main attractions. Although its highlights—including Brodick Castle and Goat Fell Mountain (2,866 feet)—can be visited in a day, including the ferry ride, you could easily spend a few days exploring this little sampler of Scotland. And you really, really should.

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

Few tourist attractions in Scotland yank the heartstrings in quite the same way as the Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre . It was here in April 1746 that Scotland's last attempt at attaining its independence from England by force was quashed in what came to be known as the Battle of Culloden, although many consider it a massacre.

The state-of-the-art visitor's center is where you should begin your visit. In addition to its excellent displays offering perspective along with first-hand accounts of this fateful day in Scottish history, there's a superb immersive film that outlines the key events as they unfolded. There's also a rooftop viewing platform overlooking the battlefield itself.

Be sure to spend some time wandering these grounds themselves. Highlights include a number of Scottish clan gravestones; a Memorial Cairn; as well as the Cumberland Stone, which marks the place from which the English commanded the battlefield. There are also a few surviving buildings, including the Old Leanach Cottage.

While the site is easy enough to get to from Inverness—it's less than 15 minutes east by car—those who prefer letting someone else do the heavy lifting may wish to combine the attraction as part of an organized tour.

One of the best, especially for fans of the hit TV show, is Diana Gabledon's Outlander Experience Tour. In addition to Culloden, these fun Scottish tours take in other major attractions including Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle.

Address: Culloden Moor, Inverness

No visit to Scotland is complete without visiting at least one or two sites associated with the country's most famous son: poet Robbie Burns. A great way to experience a little of Burns' life and times—as well as see some of the most beautiful parts of the country—is along the Burns Heritage Trail.

Start at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway, on the outskirts of Ayr. Here you'll find the perfectly preserved thatched house where the poet was born and spent much of his childhood.

Other Burns-related landmarks to visit include a monument and gardens created to commemorate his life and time in Ayr, a collection of his most important writing, and the 16th-century Auld Kirk where his father is buried.

From Ayr this circular tour heads south to Dumfries . Here, you can see the excellent Robert Burns House where the celebrated poet spent the last four years of his life and where he died in 1796, aged just 36. Now a museum displaying Burns-related memorabilia, this attraction portrays a vivid portrait of his life, and his final resting place is just a short distance away in St. Michael's Churchyard.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Ayr

An easy 25-minute drive south of Stirling, you'll find yourself staring at two of the most incredible artworks in the UK: the Kelpies. Standing over 100 ft high, these two water horse statues are the centerpiece of a massive public park in Falkirk called The Helix . Built in 2013, the park and its twin kelpies are must-photograph landmarks for those who enjoy a good selfie.

Be sure to also visit the Falkirk Wheel. Just 15 minutes' drive west of the kelpies, this impressive 115-foot structure was built to connect the Clyde, Forth, and Union canals. As much fun as it is to watch it in action from the ground, hop aboard one of the regular one-hour boat rides that will take you up and down this remarkable feat of engineering.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Falkirk

No matter when you visit Scotland, prepare to get wet. It rains a LOT here! The upside of all this moisture can be found in the lush and vibrant hills, bright green grasses, and beautiful spring blossoms.

If you're hoping to enjoy more comfortable temperatures and a little break in all that precipitation, the best time of year to visit Scotland is during the s pring (late March through June) or Autumn (September through November) . April is the driest month, so keep that in mind if you're hoping to explore without having to change shoes and socks.

Visiting during this time ensures you won't shiver as much as you would during frigid December and January. It also helps you avoid the busier (and much pricier) high season (a.k.a. June, July, and August), with its tour buses crowding the most charming small towns and inns that are packed to capacity.

You'll miss the jam-packed summer festivals like the Edinburgh International Festival , the Edinburgh Fringe Festival , and the Highland Games . And you won't be able to watch the whales migrate, but you will be mesmerized by Scotland's natural beauty bursting onto the scene in the form of buds, blossoms, and fall foliage. Plus, you'll be able to experience it all in a quieter, more tranquil setting.

Another bonus: attractions that close mid-October have reopened by late-March, and those that enforced reduced hours during the colder, darker months are back up and running at full throttle.

If you're worried about hitting cooler temperatures by avoiding summer travel, keep in mind that July and August only reach highs of 66 degrees Fahrenheit, so it's not like you're going to be sweating it out on a beach.

Scotland's Cities: As you tour around Scotland, you'll inevitably find places you'll want to spend more time, digging deeper into the country's fascinating culture and seeing more of its top attractions. For example, you could easily spend an entire vacation exploring the sites in Edinburgh without seeing everything. In Glasgow , enjoying the city's many art treasures and its vibrant cultural and entertainment scene could also take a few days.

Rural Scotland: Both lovely Loch Lomond and fabled Loch Ness have more things to do around their shores, and the Scottish Highlands are filled with places to pursue outdoor sports. There's more than golf around St. Andrews , and you can island-hop through the Hebrides by ferry and bus.

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21 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scotland Travel Guide

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

Scotland itinerary

• What to pack for Scotland

Top places to visit in Scotland

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

• Isle of Skye

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

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

1. Edinburgh

History, iconic sights and stunning architecture

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Things to do in Edinburgh

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

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

Where to stay in Edinburgh

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

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

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

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

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

Music, culture, shopping and university vibes

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

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

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

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

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

• Things to do in Glasgow

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

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

Where to stay in Glasgow

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

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

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

3. Isle of Skye

Rugged natural landscapes, picturesque hikes, and medieval castles

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in the Isle of Skye

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

Where to stay in Isle of Skye

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Inverness

Cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands

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

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

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

Things to do in Inverness

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

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

Where to stay in Inverness

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

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

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

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

5. Loch Ness

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do at Loch Ness

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

Epic hiking and adventures

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

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

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

Things to do in Glencoe

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

Where to stay in Glencoe

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

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

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

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

The bustling hub of the Isle of Skye

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

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

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

Things to do in Portree

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

Where to stay in Portree

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

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

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

8. Applecross

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Applecross

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

9. Cairngorms National Park

Largest national park in the UK, nestled in the Highlands

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Cairngorms National Park

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

Where to stay in Cairngorms National Park

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

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

10. Outer Hebrides

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to the Outer Hebrides

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

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

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

Things to do in the Outer Hebrides

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

Where to stay in the Outer Hebrides

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

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

11. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

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

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

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

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

Things to do near Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

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

12. North Coast 500 Highway

One of the most iconic and scenic driving routes in Europe

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

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

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

Things to do along the North Coast 500

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

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

Where to stay along the North Coast 500

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Oban

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

Where to stay in Oban

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

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

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

14. Isle of Mull

The Inner Hebrides’ second-largest island

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Isle of Mull

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

Where to stay in Isle of Mull

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

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

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

15. Fort William

Known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK

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

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

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

Things to do in Fort William

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

Where to stay in Fort William

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

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

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

16. Glenfinnan

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Glenfinnan

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

17. Stirling

Gateway to the Highlands

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Stirling

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

Where to stay in Stirling

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

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

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

18. Ullapool

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Ullapool

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

Where to stay in Ullapool

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

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

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

19. St. Andrews

An ancient seaside community known as the birthplace of golf

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

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

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

Things to do in St. Andrews

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

Where to stay in St. Andrews

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

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

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

A major hub of architecture and visual arts

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

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

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

Things to do in Dundee

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

Where to stay in Dundee

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

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

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

21. Aberdeen

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Aberdeen

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

Where to stay in Aberdeen

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

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

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

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

If your hand is up, keep reading…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to pack for your trip to Scotland

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

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

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

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

Round up of the top places to visit in Scotland

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

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

Are you planning a trip to Scotland?

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

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

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We want to hear from you!

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

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

Thank you. Very helpful

You are very welcome!

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you so much!

Where is the best place to go for food?

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

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• DESTINATION GUIDE

10 whimsical ways to experience Scotland

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

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

Cross a sandbar to Shetland Island beaches

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

Time travel to Scotland’s ancient past

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

See all of Scotland’s UNESCO sites in one trail

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

Journey to “Whisky Island”

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

Visit the world’s first rewilding center

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

Party like a pagan

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

Spot breaching whales from a Hebridean island

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

Feast on fine food in Fife

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

Take a city tour for social good

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

Delve into Edinburgh’s literary history

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

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

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• FOOD TOURISM

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The Best Things to do in Scotland: City-Sights, Mountain Hikes and the Northern Lights

Scotland is a place of mystery and legend, historic battles and rolling highlands. Add these brilliant things to do in Scotland to your bucket list and prepare for an epic trip.

Is there anywhere quite as beautiful as Scotland? I’m not sure.

From charming medieval villages to the (many) mountains that dot the rugged landscape, this country – or, mainly, the Highlands region – is like something straight out of a movie. 

But don’t let this stop you from delving into less rural places like Edinburgh and Glasgow – Scotland has a wealth of culture (need I remind you about the many incredible Scottish writers, musicians, and artists?) to explore.

Read on to discover the lochs, the Harry Potter-inspired places, the must-see cities and panoramic vistas you can’t miss in Scotland. 

Looking for somewhere to stay? Read my review of Knockinaam Lodge and see why you need to head there for the ultimate luxe break.

Top 5 Things to Do in Scotland

Take a trip to glasgow.

Rich in Victorian and art nouveau architecture, Glasgow is a gem of a city. It’s home to many famed institutions, such as the Scottish Ballet, Scottish Opera, and the National Theatre of Scotland. 

Visit the medieval Glasgow Cathedral with its ornate windows or the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (which is staggeringly beautiful, just FYI). Oh, and the Pollok Country Park and Glasgow Botanic Gardens could put Versailles to shame with their structured elegance. 

Shopping on Buchanan Street or settling down for a sensational meal at Bread Meats Bread is a must for trendy tourists. While the Riverside Museum is a contemporary standout in this country of antiquities, both inside and out — I mean, it even has an actual Stormtrooper, for Yoda’s sake! 

Spend a Weekend in Edinburgh  

Visiting the country’s capital is one of the top things to do in Scotland. I mean, how can you not? 

Great news – you can squeeze a lot into a short time; take a look at my fabulous 36-hour itinerary in Edinburgh for inspo.

You can see the Scottish Parliament or take a ghost tour (if you’re brave enough to face the ghoulies). 

Expect to walk… a lot! Whether that’s just along the Royal Mile and the rainbow-hued Victoria Street, or if you fancy putting on your hiking boots and climbing Arthur’s Seat for incredible vistas of the city below.

Of course, there are plenty of fun tours available in this pretty city, such as a royalty-themed bus tour or a Harry Potter walking guide .  

Wander Around the Isle of Skye 

Known for its quaint fishing villages, medieval castles, and rugged landscape, is it any wonder that the Isle of Skye is one of my favourite places in Scotland? 

It’s connected to the mainland by a bridge and its main draw is its Fairy Pools with their impossibly-aqua waters, as well as the mighty Storr on the Trotternish Peninsula.

Dunvegan Castle is another obvious choice when it comes to Isle of Skye activities, but don’t let Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls Viewpoint slip off your to-do list. It’s fairytale-gorgeous, with a huge waterfall cascading over the cliffs into the sea far below. 

Oh, and while we’re on the subject of views, the Quiraing landslip also has particularly fantastic vistas. 

Depending on the time of year, if you’re lucky, you can even stick around to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights in Scotland (more on that later). 

Go Hiking in Arran 

You know me — I love a good hike and will often dive in with the most challenging hike first — the Arran Coastal Way. 

It takes multiple days to finish this 65-mile bad boy that skirts the island’s coast almost the entire loop. You’ll pass charming villages, craggy cliffs, and sandy beaches – it’s pure hiking heaven.

If that sounds a bit intense, here’s another couple of options…

The Fairy Dell trail is a moderate 4.5 miles long and so utterly picturesque you won’t believe it’s real. You start heading towards an uber-photogenic castle where wild deer roam, then follow the eastern shore where you might see some seals.

The Glen Rosa Circuit is an easy trek offering fantastic Goatfell Range views, boggy moors, and open plains. It’s only 5 miles, so it won’t tax you too much. 

Take On Scotland’s Route 66 – The NC500 

The North Coast 500 is an epic stretch over 500 miles long, often called Scotland’s Route 66. It starts and ends in Inverness, giving way to picturesque country bliss with rustic lanes and Highland hills. 

You can stop for some stellar hikes at Big Burn Falls or Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. Or spread your toes in the sand at some beaches like Sandwood Bay or Sango Sands. 

Go on a waterfall-hunting escapade at Fairy Glen or the Ugly Hollow, or stop and stroll about some historical sites at Culloden Battlefield or Old Keiss Castle. Don’t forget to visit the towns of Helmsdale and Torridon, at the very least. 

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Scotland 

Spot nessie at loch ness .

You can’t go to Scotland and not try to spot Nessie popping out of the waters. I mean, you can, but where’s the fun in that? 

And going on a Loch Ness cruise is one of the most fun things to do in Scotland, if you ask me. 

There are also Urquhart Castle ruins to gaze at and a café and gift shop to peruse. Check out Fort Augustus; it’s a tourist fave for its gorgeous architecture and selfie ops. 

Feeling adventurous? Tackle the 80-mile Loch Ness 360º Trail for some insane Scottish beauty, stopping at charming inns and B&Bs as you go.  

Book a Two-Hour Loch Ness Cruise Here

Visit the Castles of the Highlands

There’s nothing more romantic than a castle set against a lush green wonderland, and Scotland boasts plenty. 

From the pale fairytale turrets of Dunrobin Castle , home to Sutherland’s Earls and Dukes for 700 years, to Dunvegan Castle, the residence of the MacLeod Clan Chiefs for 800 years. 

Inverness Castle is also a memory-maker with its red sandstone beside the River Ness. Climb the north tower for gorgeous views over the city. Armadale Castle is also an impressive clan home, with a museum and empty rooms you can stroll through. 

Old Inverlochy Castle is a crumbly ruin now from 1280, but it has survived nonetheless where others have melted back into the landscape. 

Drink Whisky on the Isle of Islay

Islay isn’t called “Whisky Isle ” for nothing. And I just so happen to love a punchy whisky with a peaty taste.

This island has plenty of stellar distilleries choices, from Lagavulin, Ardbeg, and Laphroaig in the south, all whitewashed and straightforward in their no-nonsense approach to a stiff drink. 

They offer tastings and tours, but if you want to enjoy the natural beauty, head for the 7.45-mile stroll along Big Strand. Push further to see the Soldier’s Rock, glorious craggy cliffs, and rolling highlands. 

Potter Around Glencoe

The village of Glencoe is tiny but mighty – boasting little cafes, a small museum, and plenty of quaint accommodation. 

That said, it’s mainly the landscapes and trails in Glencoe, which includes a 15-mile-long valley and rugged peaks, that capture people’s attention. 

Glencoe is technically a National Nature Reserve, and whether you hike, mountain bike, or simply stroll through its famously beautiful valley, you just have to see it for yourself. 

Fun Fact : This was a filming location for many scenes in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban – check out the background of Hagrid’s hut!

Ski or Hike in the Cairngorms

Let me loop you in on a secret – Cairngorms National Park has some of the best ski trails in the UK, with a rugged powder-covered landscape throughout most of the year. 

The Glenmore and Braemar areas are more scenic for snow sports, though you can also walk through the snow along the Queen’s Drive trail for stunning winter views before descending into pine forests. 

Combine the short Uath Lochans and Farleitter Crag trails for a breathtaking (and easy) 4-mile scenic experience. Feeling adventurous? Tackle the 18-mile hike up to Ben Macdui, the second-highest mountain in the UK. 

Hiking the 3-mile Frank Bruce Sculpture Trail is a must, though. 

Explore Aviemore

Aviemore is an adorable town set within Cairngorms National Park and close to secluded lochs, mountain trails, and ancient forests. If you want to return to nature, this is the place to do it. 

Hang out at the woodland estate, Rothiemurchus, with its plethora of wildlife, or visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre. 

You can even take a nighttime zipline through a floodlit psychedelic forest or settle down for a picnic at Loch an Eilean for lunch with a stellar view of the island castle. The Aviemore Kart Raceway is also a popular attraction if you can get yourself into gear (wink wink). 

Visit Balmoral

You must know about Balmoral Castle, the beloved summer residence of Queen Elizabeth II in Aberdeenshire . Its grounds cover 50,000 acres of verdant nature with happy colonies of red squirrels that you can even watch on squirrel cams .

Stroll about the spectacular castle grounds, or head inside the castle (it’s open from 1 April 2023). There are plenty of events to attend, like the Wednesday Walks led by the Ranger Service through the gardens and grounds, passing monuments and cairns. 

Visit the Star-Studded Eilean Donan Castle

Three lochs come together at the tidal island of Eilean Donan, but a sturdy bridge leads to its sole property — the Eilean Donan Castle. It’s so utterly picturesque that it’s no wonder it’s featured in James Bond movies as MI6’s Headquarters. 

Put aside an hour to wander through the castle, see the historical artefacts, and explore the gift shop and cafe. Then take your camera and get all the photos of this stunning architectural exploit from the outside. 

Book An Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip Here

Admire the Stunning Scenery Around Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park go hand in hand. But I’m not complaining because… wow . The scenery is incredible, and the park is perfect for long walks. 

The Loch is a popular attraction known for its emerald green vistas and status as the largest inland lake in Britain. Hop on a kayak or canoe or go paddleboarding while you’re there. 

Try the West Highland Way, one of National Geographic’s top 10 trails across the world at 95.7 miles long. Stop by Balmaha Village and divert to Inchcailloch, or continue to Killin and the famous Falls of Dochart. 

Across the way, there’s Luss Village with pretty stone cottages and the Luss Heritage Path. 

Unique Things to See & Do in Scotland: Hidden Gems That are Off the Beaten Track

Spot the hogwarts express at glenfinnan viaduct.

What’s so special about a railway viaduct from 1901 in Inverness-shire? Potterheads will be happy to tell you. 

The Glenfinnan Viaduct nestles between the rolling Highland hills and has featured as one of the famous railways that the Hogwarts Express frequents. But you’ll have to take a 20-minute trek from the nearby car parks to get a good view. 

If this won’t do, though, take a magical tour and hop on the cherry-red Hogwarts Express in Fort William to experience the location differently. Even if you’re not a Harry Potter superfan, it’s still one of the most unique things to do in Scotland. 

Book Your Glenfinnan Viaduct Tour Here

Head to Skara Brae

Skara Brae is a semi-subterranean village on the island of Orkney. It’s estimated to be over 5,000 years old and is Europe’s best-preserved Stone Age village. 

A dune completely covered it until a mighty storm in 1850 revealed what lay beneath – which means that Skara Brae is perfectly preserved by the sand that hid it for so long. 

For some perspective, it’s older than the Great Pyramids and Stonehenge. 

Spend Some Time on the Beaches of the West Coast

Beach bumming isn’t what you’d call a typical Scottish activity, but why not? If the sun is warm and the shimmering waters are calling, who are you to ignore them? 

Camusdarach beach in Silver Sands is as tropical as they come, with white sands and turquoise waters. You can see all the way to the mountains of Skye from its shores, so you can imagine the sunsets are phenomenal. 

Big Sand Beach in Gairloch is the perfect picnic beach, sheltered from the winds by Longa Island. Sandwood Bay is also a treasured strand with giant breakers smashing onto its shores. 

Stroll Through Ballater & Royal Deeside

Ballater is a top spot for visitors thanks to its location and heritage. It sits snugly in the heart of Royal Deeside , so named because Queen Victoria visited in 1848 and enjoyed the area tremendously. Having Balmoral Castle nearby doesn’t hurt, either. 

This picturesque Victorian village is by the eastern gate to Cairngorms National Park, so it’s a favourite with hikers. But its cosy cafes, fantastic shopping opportunities, and quality restaurants will entertain any tourist.

Hiking, climbing, and skiing are popular pastimes in Ballater, as well as a castle safari to spot Crathes, Braemer, and Craigievar Castle. 

(Try to) Spot the Northern Lights

Sorry to break it to you but, although it’s possible, this one’s not a given. However, it would be cruel of me not to suggest you at least try to see the Northern Lights on your Highland adventure.

So – where can you see them? Your best bet is on the Shetland Islands or in the Outer Hebrides. Though, if conditions are just right, you can sometimes spot them from the Isle of Skye, too.

That said, there have been plenty of occasions in recent years where people near Edinburgh and Glasgow have been able to see them – you’ll need to get yourselves out of the city for a chance at that, though.

Read Next: Where to See the Northern Lights in Scotland

Things to Do in Scotland: Practical Tips for Your Trip

How long to visit scotland .

You’ll want to put aside at least seven to ten days to get decent sightseeing into your trip. Extend it to 14 days if you’re more of a leisurely tourist or have a bigger itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Scotland?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Scotland. Temperatures are a little warmer in spring, but there’ll still be snow on the mountains. 

Where Should I Stay in Scotland? 

Ac hotel by marriott inverness (mid-range) .

This AC Hotel in Inverness is modern and comfy, with warm woods offset by clean neutrals. There’s a rooftop terrace and restaurant to spend your evenings and panoramic river views from the rooms to delight. 

This is a great place to base a Highlands trip from.

Check Rates and Availability

The Balmoral Hotel (Luxury) 

Luxury at its finest lies behind the opulent doors of The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh. Decked out with plush furniture, and a mix of Victorian and modern decor, you’ll feel as though you’re staying in the castle itself. 

Relax in the Turkish steam room or indulge your palate with fine dining at Number One Restaurant. 

Recommended Tours in Scotland

• Loch Ness, Glencoe, & the Highlands Day Trip
• Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip  
• Jacobite Steam Train Tour from Inverness
• Loch Ness 2-Hour Cruise
• Loch Lomond Sightseeing Cruise

Things to Do in Scotland: Map 

Things to do in Scotland: Read Next

• When to See the Northern Lights in Scotland
• An Epic 36 Hours in Edinburgh
• Luxury Escape: Knockinaam Lodge Review
• Discover Royal Deeside – Scotland’s Rugged Riverside Retreat

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

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

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

Map of Scotland

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

17. Isle of Arran

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

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

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

16. Ben Nevis

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

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

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

15. Shetland Islands

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

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

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

14. Aberdeen

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

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

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

13. Outer Hebrides

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

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

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

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

12. Cairngorms National Park

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

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

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

11. Fort William

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

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

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

10. St Andrews

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

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

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

9. Inverness

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

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

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

8. Orkney Islands

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

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

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

7. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs

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

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

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

6. Stirling

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Glencoe Valley

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

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

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

3. Isle of Skye

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

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

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

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

2. Edinburgh

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

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Edinburgh

1. Loch Ness

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

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

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

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

Scotland Travel Video

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Reader interactions.

December 23, 2020 at 2:38 pm

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

January 9, 2020 at 10:45 pm

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

July 13, 2019 at 7:24 pm

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

July 13, 2019 at 3:42 am

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

January 9, 2019 at 2:30 pm

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

March 6, 2017 at 10:02 am

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

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

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 5, 2023

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

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

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

1. Edinburgh

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

• 12. Scotland's islands

13. Drive the North Coast 500

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

• FAQ's planning your visit to Scotland

When is the best time of year to visit Scotland?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more | A guide to visiting “The Kelpies”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more | Scottish Highlands Travel Guide / Inverness Travel Guide

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

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

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

Read more | Speyside Malt Whisky Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related reading – Top 21 landmarks to see in England!

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

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

Alternatively, why not take a cruise along the Loch?

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

Read more | Loch Ness cruise

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

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

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

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

Read more | Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

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

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

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

Read more | 18 Scottish Castles to visit

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

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

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

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

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

12. Scotland’s islands

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

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

The most popular islands for visitors are

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

Read more | A guide to island hopping in Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more | St Andrews Travel Guide

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

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

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

Read more | Things to do in the Cairngorms

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

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

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

Read more | A food and walking tour of Aberdeen

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

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

Read more | Visit Balmoral on a day trip from Aberdeen

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

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

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

Read more | Things to do in Pitlochry

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

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

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

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

Read more | Visiting Glencoe in the West Highlands

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

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

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

Planning your Scottish itinerary

Faq’s planning your visit to scotland.

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

Read more – Month by month guide to visiting the UK

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

Read more – Seasonal packing lists for Scotland

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

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

Read more – 15 top travel tips for visiting Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended Reading

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sounds absolutely magical, doesn’t it?

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

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

Table of Contents

15 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN SCOTLAND

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

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

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

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

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

The Northern Coast (Scotland 500)

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

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

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

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

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

Isle of Skye

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

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

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

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eilean Donan Castle

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

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

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

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

Cairngorms National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Culloden Battlefield

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fort Augustus & Loch Ness

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scottish Highlands

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

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

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

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

John o’ Groats

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Craigh na Dun (Lassintullich)

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

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

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

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

Top Tips for a Scotland Trip

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

Where should you stay in Scotland?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What’s the best way to get around Scotland?

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

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

Find a suitable rental car through either Kayak or Momondo !

How much time should you spend in Scotland?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are some packing essentials for Scotland?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Is Scotland a safe destination for travelers? 🏰 15 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Scotland, United Kingdom: Unveiling the Beauty of the Highlands

Is Scotland a safe destination for travelers? Yes, Scotland is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s always important to take common-sense precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night.

Planning a trip to the UK? Well, Scotland should be on your radar! This land of mountains, castles, and valleys is simply majestic.

To make your UK tour truly unforgettable, make sure to check out these top places in Scotland . Scroll through, pick your favorites, and get ready for an amazing journey!

Craft your itinerary and discover the perfect blend of adventure, scenic destinations, lakes, and mountains in Scotland.

No matter where you go, be prepared to be amazed at every turn. That’s just how incredible Scotland is—a country waiting to enchant you with its chilly yet bright charm.

Important Information About Scotland

• Where is Scotland?:  United Kingdon
• Population:  54.5 lakhs (2019)
• Capital Of Scotland:  Edinburgh
• Currency Of Scotland:  Pound sterling
• National Animal in Scotland:  Unicorn
• National Bird Of Scotland:  Golden Eagle
• First Minister of Scotland:   Humza Yousaf
• National Sports Of Scotland:  Golf
• Main Cities In Scotland:  Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Dudeen, Inverness, Stirling, Perth, St Andrews, Paisley.
• Scotland Time Zone:   British Summer Time | Time zone in Scotland, UK (GMT+1)

🌦️ What is the best time to visit Scotland?

1: edinburgh castle, 2. loch ness: a view to behold, 3. buachaille etive mòr: an adventurer’s retreat, 4. fairy pools: perfect place for pictures, 5. loch lomond: the mother of lakes, 6. rosslyn chapel: a magical destination, 7. torridon: explore the secluded village,  8. ben nevis: a high-rise mountain within the british isles, 9. stirling castle: a magnificent site, 10. museum of scottish lighthouses: find award-winning displays, 11. highland folk museum: explore the farming lifestyle , 12. isle of arran: a friendly place, 13. luskentyre beach: an ideal place to relax, 14. cairngorms national park: a jewel within the northeast east , 15. royal and ancient golf club of st. andrews: the foremost prestigious clubs, q. how many days do you need to see scotland, q. what is the rainiest month in scotland, q. how do i get around scotland, q. are there any hidden gems in scotland, q. what are the must-try dishes in scotland, q. are there any cultural festivals in scotland, q. what is the prettiest place in scotland to visit, q. what is the number 1 tourist attraction in scotland, q. how to spend 3 days in scotland, q. what you should not miss in scotland, 😇 conclusion.

• 🗨️ Which of Scotland's destinations do you think is the best? Let us know in the comments.

The best time to visit Scotland is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is mild and the days are long. However, Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain even in the summer.

📝 List of 15 Best Places To Visit In Scotland that Make you trip Memorable forever

Whether you’re drawn to beautiful castles or scenic spots that give you literal chills, Scotland has it all. Explore the best of Scotland with our selection of top places to visit.

Discover stunning castles and breathtaking landscapes that will leave you in awe. Bring along your friends and family for an unforgettable holiday experience in these beautiful and offbeat destinations.

• Edinburgh Castle : The Wonder Place To Vist In Scotland
• Loch Ness : A View To Behold
• Buachaille Etive Mòr: An Adventurer’s Retreat
• Fairy Pools: Perfect Place for Picture  
• Loch Lomond: The Mother Of Lakes 
• Rosslyn Chapel: A Magical Destination 
• Torridon: Explore The Secluded Village 
• Stirling Castle: A Magnificent Site 
• Museum Of Scottish Lighthouses: Find Award-Winning Displays
• Highland Folk Museum: Explore the farming Lifestyle 
• Isle Of Arran: A Friendly Place
• Luskentyre Beach: An Ideal Place To Relax
• Cairngorms National Park: A Jewel within the North East
• Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews: The foremost Prestigious Clubs

Edinburgh Castle is simply unbeatable. It’s a stunning showcase of Scotland’s architecture, history, and cultural significance, perched majestically on a hill overlooking the capital city.

Inside, you’ll find incredible exhibits like the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. It’s no wonder this castle is one of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions—a must-visit for everyone!

• Visit Timings: The castle stays open every day from 9:30 AM to five PM.
• Cost: The entry ticket for the castle will cost around INR 1,395/-
• Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, United Kingdom

Loch Ness is not just any lake—it’s the largest and deepest freshwater lake in Scotland by volume. For couples visiting the UK, Loch Ness is a top-notch destination in Scotland.

Whether you’re admiring the stunning views, exploring nearby towns, or taking a stroll along the beach, Loch Ness offers plenty of romantic experiences. You won’t regret adding this beautiful spot to your itinerary!

• Places To Visit : Visit the famous Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition, Urquhart Castle, or choose hiking.
• Location: Highland, Scotland

This place is a hiker’s and rock climber’s paradise, especially popular among those seeking the thrill of conquering Munro peaks.

With its dramatic mountains and refreshing waterfalls, this location offers a picturesque Scottish backdrop that’s perfect for both enjoying and capturing unforgettable moments. It’s undoubtedly one of the top places to visit in Scotland!

• Places To Visit: Experience the adventure sports like hiking, hiking, and capturing the sweetness of the snow-capped peaks.
• Location: Glen Etive, Scotland

If you’re unsure about what to do in Scotland, look no further! This place is a dream for photographers, hikers, and adventurous swimmers alike. It’s undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in Scotland.

Located near the village of Carbost on the Isle of Skye, these enchanting pools are formed by cascading waterfalls flowing over uniquely shaped rocks, creating a stunning landscape that empties into crystal-clear waters

• Visit Timings: The pools are open 24 hours each day, though the perfect time to go is between 8 AM to 4 PM.
• Cost: There are no charges for visiting these pools.
• Address: Glenbrittle, Isle of Skye IV47 8TA, United Kingdom

Often referred to as ‘The Queen of Scottish Lakes’ by the author Walter Scott, this lake is a must-visit destination in Scotland for water sports enthusiasts, hikers, and nature lovers alike.

Whether you’re into windsurfing or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, there’s something for everyone by the lakeside. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities.

• Places To Visit:  Get on the Loch Lomond Cruise and tour the Northern Highlands, or visit the popular Loch Lomond & The Trossachs park.
• Location:  West Dunbartonshire | Argyll and Bute | Stirling, Scotland

Among all the destinations in Scotland, this one stands out as the most mysterious and enchanting.

Dating back to the 15th century, this chapel is adorned with intricate stone carvings and shrouded in myths, even earning a mention in Dan Brown’s renowned novel ‘The Da Vinci Code

• Visit Timings: The chapel stays open from 9:30 AM to six PM from Monday to Saturday, and from 12 PM to 4:45 PM every Sunday.
• Cost: The entry ticket for adults is around INR 740/- and is free for those under the age of 18 and traveling alongside family.
• Location: Chapel Loan, Roslin EH25 9PU, United Kingdom

Torridon stands out as the ultimate destination in Scotland—an isolated village nestled beneath towering mountains, bordering Upper Loch Torridon in Wester Ross.

Amongst the array of wonderful places to visit in Scotland, Torridon is a top choice for countryside enthusiasts.

The fantastic walking trails and breathtaking views ensure an extraordinary experience for visitors!

• Places To Visit: Admire the sweetness of Glen Torridon, visit the beaches, whale watching, etc.
• Location: Torridon IV22 2EY, Scotland

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Perched at an impressive 1,345 meters above sea level and nestled at the western end of the Grampian Mountains, ‘The Ben’ holds the title of being the tallest mountain in the British Isles.

For those with a Highlander spirit or a fondness for snow-capped peaks, this is one of the top destinations to visit in Scotland!

• Places To Visit: The Mountain Track, Glen Nevis Riverside Walk, Wishing Stone Walk, Nevis Gorge, Steall Falls, etc. are a number of the favored routes you can climb up to the mountain.
• Location: Lochaber, Highland, Scotland

Stirling Castle stands as one of the most magnificent castles and a premier visitor attraction in Scotland. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Exploring every corner of this castle allows you to immerse yourself in the art and history of the 16th century, while also offering breathtaking views of the town from its hilltop perch.

• Visit Timings: The castle remains open every day from 9:30 AM to 6 PM during summer and until 5 PM during winter.
• Cost: The ticket charges for adults are around INR 1,230/- and may be booked online.
• Location: Castle Wynd, Stirling FK8 1EJ, United Kingdom  

This award-winning museum is one of the top attractions in Scotland, especially for first-time visitors to the country.

With its captivating audio-visual tour and stunning views of the town from the top of the lighthouse, every aspect of this museum will leave you in awe.

• Visit Timings:  The museum is open every day from 10 AM to 4:30 PM. However, the trips happen at particular stated hours.
• Cost:  The ticket for entry into the museum and a guided 45-minute tour will cost around INR 632/-
• Address:  Stevenson Rd, Fraserburgh AB43 9DU, United Kingdom

As Britain’s first mainland outdoor museum, this place is undeniably one of the most charming destinations to visit in Scotland.

It offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the old Highland people by showcasing their homes, clothing, and daily activities.

Inside, you’ll find cafes, shops, and picnic spots to keep you entertained throughout your visit.

• Visit Timings:  The museum stays open from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
• Cost:  It is free of cost.
• Location:  Aultlarie Croft Kingussie Road, Newtonmore PH20 1AY, Scotland

Located in the southwestern area, within the Firth of Clyde near Glasgow, this place is renowned as ‘Scotland in Miniature.’

It’s the seventh-largest island, offering panoramic views of both the Scottish highlands and lowlands in one spot. Plus, it’s easily accessible and truly delightful, making it one of the top places to visit in Scotland.

• Places To Visit: Visit the favored Isle of Arran Distillers, Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park, and Moor Stone Circles.
• Location: Firth Of Clyde, Near Glasgow, Scotland

No holiday is complete without some relaxation and fun at the beach. Scotland boasts stunning sandy shores where you can either lounge or take a dip.

Luskentyre Beach on Harris Island stands out as the top destination to visit in Scotland. Voted one of the world’s best beaches, it’s a must-see spot in Scotland.

• Visit Timings:  The beach stays open for twenty-four hours.
• Location:  Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides, Scotland

This isn’t your average park, which is why it’s among the top destinations in Scotland. It’s the largest park in the United Kingdom and is considered a must-see during your visit.

Renowned for its timeless beauty, it offers more than just forest paths and lakes—it’s also a hotspot for wildlife. Plus, you’ll find the enchanting beauty of mountains, rivers, villages, and even distilleries within its borders.

• Visit Timings:  The timings completely depend upon your tour itinerary and sort.
• Cost:  The cost for a seven-day guided tour of the Cairngorms Park Experience will cost around INR 1,40,000 per person. However, you’ll also choose other tours.
• Location:  PH22 1QH, Scotland

This club stands out as one of the coolest, most famous, and perfect destinations to visit in Scotland. It’s a golfer’s paradise!

Renowned as one of the greatest golf clubs in the world, it offers an unforgettable experience. You can feel the passion for the sport as you take a stroll on the old course.

• Visit Timings: The club stays open for twenty-four hours.
• Cost: You can either enter the club with a member or book a tour to steer around the old course. The value for an equivalent is often checked with the concerned authority.
• Location: St. Andrews, Scotland

🙋🏻‍♀️ FAQs About Places To Visit In Scotland

People have a lot of questions about Scotland visits some of the questions are answered below.

A. To see Scotland fully, plan for at least 7-10 days.

A. The rainiest month in Scotland is usually November.

A. You can get around Scotland easily using trains, buses, or by renting a car.

A. Yes, Scotland is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From secluded beaches and hidden waterfalls to charming villages off the beaten path, there’s always something new to explore in Scotland.

A. Some of the must-try dishes in Scotland include haggis, neeps, and tatties, Cullen skink (a creamy seafood soup), and cranachan (a traditional Scottish dessert made with raspberries, cream, oats, and whiskey).

A. Yes, Scotland hosts a variety of cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the Highland Games, and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. These festivals showcase Scotland’s rich cultural heritage through music, dance, and theater.

A. One of the prettiest places in Scotland to visit is the Isle of Skye.

A. The number one tourist attraction in Scotland is Edinburgh Castle.

A. Spend one day exploring Edinburgh, one day exploring the Highlands, and one day visiting a nearby island.

A. Don’t miss attractions like the Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye, and the Stirling Castle when in Scotland.

Scotland’s timeless allure captivates visitors with its diverse landscapes, from the rugged beauty of the Highlands to the historic charm of its cities. Whether you’re delving into ancient castles, strolling through picturesque landscapes, or immersing yourself in vibrant cultural festivals, Scotland promises an unforgettable experience at every turn. So pack your bags and embark on an adventure to discover the best places to visit in Scotland, where each moment brings a discovery.

🗨️ Which of Scotland’s destinations do you think is the best? Let us know in the comments.

Don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with  Fiery Trippers . Let us make your vacation a romantic and dreamy getaway.

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Nikita Khanna

There is nothing I love more than exploring and enjoying the world and its cultures. I have been to 15 countries and believe that every country has its charm, you just need to have that insight. My life is full of adventure, and every moment is worth every penny. After all, we only live once, and there’s so much to see and so much to do. I am here to share my experiences in the hope that they would benefit trippers all over the world. Read More

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

• 27th February 2022
• 14 minute read

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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

The Best Places to Visit in Scotland…

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

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

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

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

Sandwood Bay

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

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

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

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

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe

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

Eilean Donan Castle

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

Urquhart Castle

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

Hermit’s Castle

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

Dunrobin Castle

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

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

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

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

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

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

Culloden Battlefield

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

Rothiemurchus

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

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

The Bones Caves

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

Stac Pollaidh

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

Old Man of Storr

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

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

Arthur’s Seat

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

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

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

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

Callanish Standing Stones

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

Balmoral Cairns

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

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

Isle of Lewis and Harris

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

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

Orkney & Shetland

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

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

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

Isle of Iona

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

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

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

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

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

Fort William

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

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

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

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

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

Dean Village

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

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

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

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

The North Coast 500

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

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

Island Hopping the Outer Hebrides

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Culloden Viaduct

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

Glenfinnan Viaduct

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

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

Wailing Widow Falls

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

Steall Falls

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

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

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

Duncansby Head

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

The Outer Hebrides

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

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

Chanonry Point

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

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

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

Loch Morlich

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

Loch an Eilein

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

Achmelvich Beach

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

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

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

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

Let’s go! @katie.maree

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

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

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

Lauren Worldpackers Community

Sep 27, 2023

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

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

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

What are the best places to visit in Scotland 

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

1. The hills! (mainly the Munros)

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Edinburgh's skyline

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

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

3. Dundee's food & culture

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Glasgow's city life

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

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

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

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

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

5. Stirling's historical throwback

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

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

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

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

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

6. Tobermory (Balamory)

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

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

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

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

7. The magical fairy pools in Skye

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

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

Take a walk up the hills as you peer over the pools, or be brave and take a dip in the cold, cold waters! They're freezing, but you won't see water more clear than that. Absolutely stunning. 

8. The sunsets in Oban

One of my favourite things, which I'm sure I share with many, is sunsets. The colours, the vibrancy, the calmness. It's just stunning!

Oban is also full of things to do, like visiting McCaigs Folley, swimming at Ganavan beach, seeing what's on at the Rockfield centre and eating at some of the best wee pubs and restaurants! 

But the thing that captures my attention most is always the sky. No matter how many times I have seen the Oban sunset, I will never get tired of it. It truly is mesmerising, and what's better than getting lost in a beautiful view right? 

9. Take a dip in Loch Lubnaig

Scotland is famous for it's stunning waters like Loch Lomond and of course the home to the big beast Nessie, Loch Ness. However, I think Loch Lubnaig is one of the best lochs for a wee dip, and also is a lot safer.

Top tip! If you are going swimming in any of Scotland's lochs , be sure to have people with you and don't jump in somewhere you're unfamiliar with. They may look tempting to dive right in, but are often a lot deeper and colder than people realise, so be careful!

10. Scotland countryside and its wildlife

Sure, we might not have wild tigers or anything, but we do have majestic stags and adorable highland coos (cows). Their wee tufts of fur that cover their eyes will melt your heart, and a lot of them are ginger so they fit right in with the population!

Our wildlife tend to be quite shy like the deer for example, but the coos are quite happy to have a chat, or a moo with you. 

If you're in Scotland countryside like the Kings House Hotel in Glen Coe, you'll find deer just wandering around and you can feed them or pet them! They're pretty friendly, so make sure you are too.

Keep reading:

• A local's guide to London on a budget
• 9 reasons for living in London as a budget traveler

Amazing 17 staycations ideas for a holiday in the UK

How long it takes to visit the best places in scotland.

If you just visit some cities in Scotland  for a few days you'd have a nice idea of the country, but you would be missing some things and places that require planning to get to. 

So I'd recomend stay at least a month.

Many people don't know yet but it's possiblie to stay a long term in Scotland on a buget, starting at 2 weeks, up to an year. What makes this possible is doing a exchange work with Worldpackers .

In the video below you can see how it works, and read about an experience volunteering in a hostel in Scotland with Worldpackers.

And iff you would like to undergo all these 10 best places to visit in Scotland , you may want a help in how to plan a long term trip . 

This country, though small, is full of life and wonder. It has it's highs (very high highs) and it's lows, but it'll always leave you with a smile on your face and lungs filled with fresh air. As my dad always says, 'Scotland, what's not to love?' and I couldn't agree more. 

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Lauren Mclachlan

Worldpackers Community

Hey I’m Lauren! I’m from a small town in sunny (I wish) Scotland and took on my first solo travelling trip after graduating in 2019 My experience was way better than I could’ve imagined – meeting wonderful people, seeing amazing things, great experiences and even teaching weekly yoga! I couldn’t have done all this without Worldpackers, I’m so grateful I came across the website. I think everyone should get to experience travelling at some point in their lives – wherever and whatever it may be! My advice if you’re thinking about it is – don’t think too much! Just do, you won’t regret it. Also, if you want 10% off your Worldpackers memberships you can use the code LAUREN10

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Sep 15, 2021

Wow! I realy liked this place, thanks.

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The 10 most beautiful places in Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

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The most beautiful places in Scotland

1.  Edinburgh Old Town

Best for: Getting to the heart of Scottish urban history

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

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

2.  Fingal’s Cave

Best for: Marvelling at the raw power of nature

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

3.  Crail Harbour

Best for: Grabbing some fresh crab

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

4.  The Cairnwell Pass

Best for: Taking the high road

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

5.  V&A Dundee

Best for: A glimpse of modern Scotland

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

6.  The Small Isles

Best for: Dolphin spotting

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

7.  Loch Katrine

Best for: A legendary cruise

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

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

8.  Dunnottar Castle

Best for: The crown jewel of Scottish castles

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

9.  Ben Nevis

Best for: The highest of Highland highs

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

10.  The Flow Country

Best for: Splendid isolation

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

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19 Best Cities and Towns in Scotland to Visit + Map

We have already written an extensive guide on the most picturesque villages in Scotland . So, we thought it was about time that we put together some of the best towns and cities this country has to offer.

Scotland has no shortage of lively cities, from the crowded cobbled streets of Edinburgh to the epic music scene of Glasgow . Officially, Scotland has eight cities.

But the beauty of Scottish towns can rival any bustling hub, with its stunning setting in nature, hilltop views and ruined castles . 

So, whether you like buzzing cities or cosy small towns, we have rounded some of the best cities and towns to include in your Scotland itinerary.

Best cities and towns in Scotland

1. edinburgh.

The capital city of Scotland is steeped in hundreds of years of history. Also, the list of  things to do in Edinburgh  is extensive. 

The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh are UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city skyline is dominated by the iconic  Edinburgh Castle . It sits over an extinct volcanic plug. This mighty fortress was once the residence of the Scottish kings and queens.

For an awe-inspiring view of the city, climb to   Arthur’s Seat  or  Calton Hill .

Stroll along the colourful  Victoria Street , rumoured to be the inspiration behind Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter books.

Make your way to the stunning  Dean Village , a peaceful oasis in this busy city. Take a short walk along the Water of Leith to reach the buzzing  Stockbridge . Search for  Circus Lane , one of the most picturesque streets in Edinburgh.

2. St Andrews

The charming town is famous for being the birthplace of golf – but also for its fascinating history, cultural scene and vast sandy beaches. There are plenty of tourist attractions in St Andrews to explore.

St Andrews Cathedral was once the largest church in the whole of Scotland. It was built in 1158 and became the centre of the catholic churches in Scotland. Some of the ruined towers still stand today.

Golf lovers will love a visit to the historic Old Course. It is known to be one of the oldest golf courses in the world.

This seaside town has two beautiful sandy beaches. Also, be sure to explore the medieval ruins of St Andrews Castle.

Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland and one of the biggest cities in the UK. There are plenty of  things to do and see in Glasgow  to keep your Scotland trip memorable.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of the  best museums in Glasgow . It has an extensive collection of 8000 objects which include famous paintings, armour and ancient historical artefacts.

History buffs will love a visit to the Glasgow Cathedral. It is the oldest building in this city and should be a must-visit place on your  Glasgow itinerary .

For a beautiful panoramic view of the skyline, climb to the nearby Necropolis. This Victorian cemetery is a  hidden gem in Glasgow .

This city is renowned for its many colourful street art. You can follow the  Glasgow mural trail  to explore them. Also, Glasgow has the best nightlife in Scotland.

This bustling city is not too far from the famous  Loch Lomond and the Trossachs  National Park, which is the most popular  day trip destination from Glasgow .

4. Fort William

Known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK, this picturesque town is located on the shores of Loch Linnhe with mighty Ben Nevis in the backdrop. From hiking to wildlife spotting, there are many unmissable things to do in Fort William for a perfect holiday in nature.

There are numerous walking trails around this area for all abilities. Expert hikers will love to climb the iconic Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Scotland and the UK.

Hop on the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train, popularly known as the Hogwarts Express. It crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct on its way to the coastal town of Mallaig.

Enjoy a scenic gondola ride at Nevis Range. From the top, you will be greeted with some of the most stunning views over the town and the surrounding mountains and lochs.

Stroll around the Old Inverlochy Castle. It was built in the late 13th century.

5. Inverness

Inverness and the nearby Loch Ness are undoubtedly must-visit attractions for anyone visiting Scotland. From tranquil riverside walks to exploring the Victorian market, there are many exciting  places to visit in Inverness .

Known as the capital of the Highlands, Inverness is one of the smallest cities in Scotland.

Spend a day exploring the serene Loch Ness. Take a boat tour to spot Nessie, the famous Loch Ness monster. Don’t forget to visit the historic Urquhart Castle, one of the  best castles in Scotland .

Head up to Inverness Castle. From the castle viewpoint, you will get a stunning panoramic view of the city, River Ness and beyond.

Take a leisurely nature walk in the Ness Islands. Visit the Victorian Market in the city centre. The covered market is the home to a plethora of shops, cafes and restaurants.

6. Inveraray

Nestled on the western banks of Loch Fyne, Inveraray is one of the prettiest small towns in Scotland.

One of the main visitor attractions in Inveraray is the Inveraray Castle, the ancestral home of the chief of Clan Campbell. This fairytale dreamy building is one of the most picturesque castles in Scotland . After a visit to the castle, take a leisurely stroll around the surrounding gardens.

For a birds-eye view over this town and the surrounding landscapes, hike to the top of nearby Dun Na Cuaiche hill.

Take a tour of the Inveraray Jail, a historic 19th-century prison and courtroom turned living museum.

Also, walk along the shore of Loch Fyne and admire the serene beauty of this place. Watch out for wildlife in Loch Fyne, a designated Marine Protected Area in Scotland.

7. Stirling

This is one of the must-visit cities in Scotland. There are plenty of lovely things to do in Stirling .

Stirling Castle sits on an ancient volcanic crag. Most of the buildings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. It served as the residence of the Scottish monarchs in past centuries. 

Two important battles in Scottish history were fought near this historic city – Battle of Stirling Bridge and Battle of Bannockburn.

Another main tourist attraction in this city is the National Wallace Monument, an iconic  landmark of Scotland . It commemorates Sir William Wallace, a national hero. You can climb 246 steps to reach the viewing platform. The breathtaking panoramic view is well worth the effort.

Take a ramble around the Church of the Holy Rude and the adjacent cemetery. You can also follow the Back Walk. It’s a lovely walk around the old town walls and provides lovely views over the city.

Located on the shore of the Firth of Tay, Dundee is the fourth largest city in Scotland by population. It is known as the ‘City of Discovery’ owing to its glorious industrial past.

One of the main tourist attractions in Dundee is the V&A Dundee, the first design museum in Scotland. It showcases the Scottish creativity over the years. After all, Dundee was the UK’s first-ever UNESCO city of design.

Right next to V&A is the RRS Discovery, a historic ship built in Dundee. Captain Scott went on this ship to do the Antarctic expedition in 1901.

Browse through the priceless art and natural history collection of The McManus: Dundee’s Art Gallery & Museum.

Stroll along the vibrant waterfront. Climb Dundee Law for a cracking view over the city, River Tay, Fife, and beyond.

9. Aviemore

Situated in the stunning Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore is one of the best towns in Scotland for outdoor adventure activities. It is a popular site for skiing, hill walking and other winter sports. 

Also, Cairngorms is one of the best places to visit in Scotland .

Surrounded by magnificent mountains, scenic lochs and lush forests, this pretty town is an excellent base for travellers exploring the national park. 

Enjoy a thrilling funicular ride in the Cairngorms Mountain Resort. You will get a spectacular view of the Cairngorms mountain ranges.

Make a brief stop at the serene Loch Morlich, a freshwater loch surrounded by sandy beaches. Also, it is a popular spot for various water sports.

Aviemore is buzzing with various shops, cafes and restaurants. There are many hiking trails around this town.

10. Melrose

Located on the bank of River Tweed in the Scottish Borders, Melrose is one of the most historic towns in Scotland. It is the birthplace of Rugby Sevens.

One of the main tourist attractions in Melrose is the historic Melrose Abbey, which dates back to 1136. It faced significant destruction by the English army in 1385. Also, this magnificent ruin is the burial place of Robert the Bruce’s heart.

This pretty town sits next to the Eildon Hills, which is perfect for hillwalking. From the summit, you will get a magnificent view of Melrose and the surrounding rolling hills of Scottish Borders.

If you are visiting during summer, wander around the lovely Priorwood Garden and Harmony Garden.

Abbotsford House, the home of Sir Walter Scott, a legendary Scottish author, is not too far from this town. 

11. North Berwick

Located on the shore of the Firth of Forth, North Berwick is one of the most attractive coastal towns in Scotland.

It takes only 35 minutes to get here by train from Edinburgh, making North Berwick one of the best day trip destinations from Edinburgh .

The town centre is filled with cosy cafes, busy fish and chips shops, and restaurants.

Roam around the beautiful beaches, which boast picturesque views of the Firth of Forth, Bass Rock and the nearby islands. 

Take a look inside the Scottish Seabird Centre. From the harbour, catch a boat tour to the Bass Rock, the world’s largest colony of Northern gannets.

Climb North Berwick Law for a superb view over the town, Bass Rock and the sea. 

Tucked away in a sheltered bay on the Firth of Lorne, Oban is one of the largest towns on the West Coast of Scotland.

This coastal town is popularly known as the seafood capital of Scotland and the gateway to the Isles.

Oban has excellent ferry links to the islands of the Inner Hebrides. So, you can embark on an island-hopping adventure from here.

Climb to the McCaig’s Tower, which looks over this harbour town. The circular structure was built in 1897 by local banker John Stuart McCaig. Admire the stunning view over Oban Bay and the faraway islands.

Take a guided tour of the Oban Distillery, one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland. 

13. Aberdeen

Nicknamed the Granite City, Aberdeen sits in North East Scotland on the shore of the North Sea.

One of the main tourist attractions in Aberdeen is the gorgeous Aberdeen Beach. The golden sandy beach stretches for about two miles. It is a perfect place to spend a sunny summer day. 

Ramble around Footdee, a quaint fishing settlement in Aberdeen and a hidden gem of this city.

Make your way to the Aberdeen Art Gallery to admire one of the finest collections in the UK. 

Not too far from this bustling city is the magnificent Dunnottar Castle, one of the most dramatic  castles in Scotland .

There are many castles to explore in Aberdeenshire. The most famous one is perhaps the Balmoral Castle, the residence of the British royal family since 1852. It is located very close to  Braemar , one of the most beautiful  villages in Scotland .

14. Pitlochry

Surrounded by majestic mountains, mystical glens, atmospheric rivers and lochs, and dense forest, this Scottish town surely has an enviable setting.

Located in Perthshire on the River Tummel, Pitlochry is a nature lovers’ paradise. There are various scenic walking trails around this town. Ben Vrackie, Faskally Wood, Craigower and Killiecrankie are some of the popular hiking spots. 

Also, white water rafting, cycling, golfing, and fishing are very popular in this area.

You can’t miss a visit to the spectacular Queen’s View vantage point. You will get to admire one of the finest views of Scotland from here.

There are two distilleries close to this Victorian town – Blair Athol Distillery and Edradour Distillery. Whisky lovers can take a guided tour and tasting.

15. Falkirk

Falkirk is home to the Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel. Located in the central belt of Scotland, this bustling town is one of the best places for a day trip from Glasgow .

Standing proudly in Helix Park, The Kelpies are two gigantic horse head sculptures made from steel and bronze. They are the world’s largest equine sculptures. Named after a Scottish mythological character, the Kelpies are one of the best tourist attractions in Scotland. Created by artist Andy Scott, it honours the horse-driven industrial heritage of this area.

Another must-visit attraction of this town is the Falkirk Wheel, the only rotating boat lift in the world. It joins the Forth & Clyde Canal to the Union Canal and lifts boats 115 ft above.

Sitting on the bank of River Tay, the ‘Fair City’ Perth is one of the eight cities of Scotland. It was once the capital of Scotland.

Take a tour of the historic Scone Palace, the ancestral home of the Earls of Mansfield. Many significant events in Scottish history took place in this palace. Several Scottish kings and queens were crowned on the Stone of Scone, also known as the Stone of Destiny. Today, the stone resides in the Edinburgh Castle .

For a striking view over this city and the surrounding rolling hills of Perthshire, hike to Kinnoull Hill.

Art lovers will enjoy a visit to the Perth Art Gallery. It features works of many famous modern Scottish artists.

17. Eyemouth

This small seaside town in the Scottish Borders has a picturesque harbour, rich wildlife and a dramatic coastline. 

The town of Eyemouth sits on the Berwickshire Coastal Path on the section from St Abbs to Berwick.

Meander around the Eyemouth pier. The colourful fishing boats are very photogenic. Watch out for seals. They are frequently spotted here playing. 

The town centre is buzzing with many cafes, seafood restaurants and shops. 

Take a tour of the Gunsgreen House. It was once a notorious smuggling spot. Other illicit trades also used to take place here in past centuries. 

You can take a boat trip to explore the stunning coastline of Berwickshire. We would also highly recommend a short trip to the nearby village of St Abbs.

Ayr is a popular seaside town on the southwest coast of Scotland. You can visit Ayr on a day trip from Glasgow .

This bustling town is famous for its long sandy beach. It’s a perfect spot for a family beach day and on hot summer days, it gets very busy with people coming from Glasgow and nearby areas. There are restaurants, an entertainment centre and a children’s play area along the promenade.

This town is famous for its connection to Robert Burns, the national poet of Scotland. He was born in Alloway, on the outskirts of Ayr.

Fans of the bard would love a visit to the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum. Also, Take a stroll around the picturesque Brig o’Doon, immortalised in Burns’s poem.

Make a short trip to visit the lovely Culzean Castle, not very far from Ayr. 

19. Kirkcudbright

Located on the Solway Coast within Dumfries and Galloway in southwest Scotland, Kirkcudbright is a pretty harbour town. 

Its picturesque setting has attracted many notable artists and creative personalities over the years, including Francis Cadell and Samuel Peploe from the Scottish Colourists and the Glasgow Boys, who lived and worked here. Today, Kirkcudbright is known as the Artists’ Town.

Kirkcudbright Galleries houses an extensive collection of works by local artists. Here, you can find paintings and drawings as well as silver jewellery, book illustrations and ceramics.

Culture lovers will enjoy a visit to the Broughton House & Garden, home of Reputed Scottish painter Edward Atkinson Hornel. Inside, you will find many paintings, photographs and sculptures. Take a look at Hornel’s studio as well. Later, stroll around the beautiful Japanese-inspired garden.

Map of the Best Towns and Cities of Scotland

Here is a map of all the lovely towns and cities mentioned in this travel guide. Click on the link to open this on Google Maps. You could save it to use later.

We hope this article has motivated you to travel to Scotland and explore all these places for yourself.

Love, Sankha and Moumita.

1 thought on “19 Best Cities and Towns in Scotland to Visit + Map”

Fantastic mooie site.voor Schotland bezoekers zoals wij uit Nederland. Gaan in mei dit jaar weer richting ons geliefd Schotland😊

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20 best places to visit in scotland [2024 travel guide].

Scotland is packed with beautiful places to visit.

You could honestly spend months and months exploring everything this wonderful country has to offer.

Which is exactly what we have done!

We have returned for five extensive trips since we converted our camper back in 2020.

And have spent more than 9 months combined, living and traveling through this absolutely breathtaking country.

Below I want to help you save time planning your own trip to Scotland, by taking you through what we believe to be the absolute best places to visit there this year.

ALL based on where we have personally visited.

Let's get straight into it ...

Travellerspoint

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

Scotland is the sort of place that offers something all year round, but different seasons have their perks. 

For example, if you visit in summer, you’ll have a higher chance of great sunshine, but you’ll be surrounded by midges.

If you don’t know what midges are, they’re the most annoying little mite/fly ever.

We first encountered them at the famous Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye, and have feared them ever since!

We get them in Ireland in the summer too and they love blood, so they lovvvee to bite, and honestly, despite attempts at creams and sprays, they still bite! 

Scotland travel stats show that summer is, of course, the busiest season to visit. So it’ll be busy at most of the attractions, despite the highest chance of warm weather.

We have visited a few times in the autumn months (September to November) and I can honestly say it was perfect. 

Some days you will get lucky with the weather and on our first Autumn visit, we only experienced around a week's worth of rain in the six weeks we were there. 

It was cold but bearable, and I absolutely love being surrounded by autumn colours.

Plus there are two more benefits of visiting in Autumn: no midges AND a lot fewer tourists!

Getting around Scotland: What’s the best option?

• Drive : We 100% recommend driving around Scotland if you get the chance. It was easy for us because we toured Scotland in our self-converted campervan, but it’s super easy to rent a campervan / motorhome in Scotland . There are also plenty of car rentals available if campers aren't your kind of thing. When you drive you gain the ability to explore much more, discover unknown places and even experience wild camping in Scotland .
• ‍ Train : Scotland has a pretty decent train network and you can make it all the major sights in Scotland via train, plus the views on the trains are going to be spectacular. So if you don’t have a driving license, or simply don’t want to drive, then this is a good option. 

20 Best Places to Visit in Scotland 

1. glen coe (my favourite place in scotland).

If you asked me where my favourite place to visit in all of Scotland is….I would say, Glen Coe .

The whole area of Glen Coe constantly had my face in shock due to the beauty that I was witnessing.

I swear it felt like I was transported to another country .

It’s just a stream of dramatic mountains, lakes, rugged beauty and more. It was honestly such a magical place to visit and if you only have time to visit one place make it Glen Coe, it’s truly one of the most magical places in Scotland. 

Things to do in Glen Coe 

• Visit the Famous James Bond picture point (Co-ordinates here) 
• Check out the Glencoe mountain resort (if it’s in season, then ski or snowboard!) 
• Check out Rannoch Moor viewpoint 

2. Fort William

Fort William is probably one of the most well-known places to visit in Scotland.

It’s one of the first big towns in the Scottish Highlands and a popular tourist destination thanks to being home to the UK’s tallest mountain: Ben Nevis.

It’s also home to a ski centre so is a popular place for families to visit! 

We really liked Fort William and if the season was right we would have attempted to climb Ben Nevis, but even if you’re not there for the mountain itself, there are still lots of beautiful walks and views in this area to experience. 

Fort William is also the starting point for one of the world's most famous train rides: The Jacobite .

Harry Potter fans will recognise it as the Hogwarts Express, and this train ride will take you through the beautiful countryside, crossing some iconic Harry Potter filming locations such as the Dumbledore's Grave and the Glenfinnan Viaduct!

Things to do in Fort William 

• Climb Ben Nevis 
• Visit the Ben Nevis Ski Centre (go up the cable car to the mountain restaurant!) 
• Ride the Jacobite steam train 

Where to stay in Fort William

There are lots of great hotels in Fort William, but the Ben Nevis Hotel & Leisure Club has a heated indoor pool, perfect after hiking Ben Nevis!

For more ideas, check out my guide on the best Airbnbs Fort William has to offer.

3. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs national park

Loch Lomond has so much to offer every type of traveller visiting Scotland.

We loved spending time in this park, and when we visited in October, the season had finished for camping permits so we were able to wild camp in some beautiful spots! 

Loch Lomond is packed with amazing views, wonderful waterfalls, gorgeous hikes and abandoned castles.

There is something for everyone.

We loved the Three Lochs Forest drive located within the Trossachs National Park.

It was amazing and we got to wild camp in an amazing spot with no one else around! 

The Ben Lomond peak is the highest in the area, so it’s worth a hike! Bradley did this and found it really enjoyable! 

This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Scotland for families! 

Things to do in Loch Lomond 

• Climb Ben Lomond
• Take a boat cruise across Loch Lomond 
• Take the Three Lochs Forest Drive

Where to stay in Loch Lomond

Balloch is a great central town to stay in and the Queen on the Loch offers stylish rooms. For more inspiration, check out our guide on the best places to stay in Loch Lomond .

4. Cairngorms National park

We visited the Cairngorms National Park in December so some of the mountains were beginning to showcase snow, which was super exciting.

This is the largest national park in the UK so it’s another popular place to visit in Scotland and it’s no surprise why.

It’s absolutely beautiful and there’s so much happening at the Cairngorms National Park!

From skiing or meeting local reindeers, you’ll not go bored and you’ll be surrounded by beauty the entire time. 

There are lots of cute towns in this area too, but Aviemore is a good hot spot to visit stock up on snacks, petrol, and rent ski gear, or hiking gear if you need it! 

But my all-time favourite place to visit within the Cairngorms National Park area is the quaint town of Braemar. 

This is everything I wanted from a Scottish town, it’s adorable and oozes charm.

Go to the coffee shop called “The Wee Bothy” for amazing coffee, shortbread and lovely staff! 

I could live there! 

Braemar is also home to Braemar Castle which is super cool!

Visit at night time when it’s lit up for a unique experience. 

Things to do in Cairngorms National Park 

• Visit the Cairngorm Mountain for skiing (or get the funicular to the top for epic views!)-- It's due to reopen in late 2022, which means it's been closed for like 4 years. It was closed when we visited too, but the locals working there said the views are great!)
• Visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre (this area has the highest proportion of reindeer in Scotland) 
• Check out the Queen's Scottish residence at Balmoral Castle

5. Isle of Skye

We’ve only visited one island off Scotland so far, and that’s the Isle of Skye, but it lived up to our expectations and more!

The Isle of Skye is connected via the “Skye Bridge”, so it’s super convenient to get too. 

This island feels totally different from other parts of Scotland and is truly rugged and ready!

We spent almost a week on the Isle of Skye visiting all the hot spots including the Old Man of Storr, the Fairy Glen and so much more.

We even got to stay on a private island with its very own lighthouse, which was one of the coolest places I’ve ever visited and one of the most romantic places stay in Scotland (especially if you’re celebrating something!)

Read more in our Eilean Sionnach Lighthouse Cottage review .

Simply put, the Isle of Skye should be top of your Scotland itinerary! 

When you visit via the Skye bridge, you should definitely make a stop at the Eilean Donan Castle- it’s seriously cool and was free to walk around when we went.

Things to do on the Isle of Skye

• Stay on your own private island 
• Hike the Old Man of Storr 
• Discover Kilt Falls and dinosaur prints

Read More: 3 Day Isle of Skye itinerary

Where to stay on the Isle Of Skye

Check out my in-depth guide on the best places to stay on Skye .

6. The North Coast 

If you’ve decided to road trip the iconic NC500 , which is Scotland’s answer to route 66, then you’ll find yourself passing the North Coast of Scotland! 

We loved the North Coast because again, it offers something unique to other parts of Scotland.

There are lots of great towns along the way, and we can recommend a stop at BettyHill for cute coffee shops and friendly locals. 

When you visit the North Coast you’ll have to stop at John O Groats since it’s the furthest point on mainland UK.

Visit the colourful houses, grab a coffee and then go searching for dolphins, sharks and seals! (We saw seals) 

Things to do on the North Coast of Scotland 

• Visit Smoo Cave (a free, but REALLY cool cave - one of the more unique attractions in Scotland!)
• Visit Duncansby head and stacks (be prepared for wind!)
• Visit the John O Groats beer distillery 

Read More: The Best Road Trips in Scotland

We’ve visited Glasgow twice now, and it will always make my list of the best places to visit in Scotland!

I may struggle with the accent, but the people, the sights, the atmosphere is all worth it. 

Glasgow is an awesome place to have a city break.

The university grounds are beautiful in Autumn, the Kelvin grove Art Gallery & Museum is amazing and there are so many great pubs and bars for buzzing nightlife. 

Things to do in Glasgow

• Check out the Riverside Museum 
• Relax at St George's Square 
• Visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum 

Where to stay in Glasgow

There are so many amazing hotels in Glasgow, you can search for them all right here .

8. Galloways (SW Coastal route)

If you want to visit an area of Scotland that’s not overly touristy, then a road trip to the South West Coast should be top of your list.

The Scottish tourism board actually created a road trip called the Southwest Coastal 300 , which you can probably guess is a 300-mile road trip of the south west Coast!

Bradley and I did it and we loved this area of Scotland.

The hub of the area is the Galloways National Park (where you can actually go searching for stars at night), but this area of Scotland is breathtaking but didn’t feel overly busy to me.

There are so many castles and tea rooms here- I LOVED it!

I’d say this is one of the more unique places to visit in Scotland in comparison to everywhere else we visited. 

Things to do on the Southwest Coastal route

• Visit the Galloway Lighthouse (It’s the most south-westerly point in Scotland and you can see 3 other countries from here!) 
• Visit the beautiful Culzean Castle (one of my favourite castles in Scotland)
• Visit Caerlaverock Castle (awh-mazing!)

Where to stay near Galloways National Park

Check out my guide on the best hotels on the west coast of Scotland .

9. Inverness 

Inverness is probably my favourite city in Scotland (that I’ve been too so far). 

I love that it’s a city, but it’s small.

It’s basically the capital of the Scottish Highlands but it’s charming and quaint .

You could easily see all the best sights in Inverness in a day if you’re short for time, but what’s nice about this city is that you can just wander around and explore without the worry of getting lost. 

I also love that Inverness isn’t overpriced, so if you’re looking for one of the more cheap places to visit in Scotland, then Inverness won’t break the bank!

Things to do in Inverness 

• Check out Inverness Castle at sunset 
• Visit the largest second-hand bookstore in Scotland (really cool attraction in Inverness!) 
• Shop at the Victorian Market 

Where to stay in Inverness

There are some great hotel deals in Inverness that you can book right here .

10. Loch Ness

You can’t go to Scotland and NOT go in search of Nessie!

Before we visited Scotland this was definitely one of my bucket list places to visit.

Just because I’ve heard so much about it.

I really wanted to do a Loch Ness cruise and learn more about the myth of Nessie , but we visited during Covid times and they weren’t running due to low visitors! 

But it’s still a cool place to visit in Scotland and we even got to wild camp right on the Loch Ness lake, which was pretty cool.

Since this is only a short drive from Inverness, it’s often a popular day trip for visitors. 

Things to do in Loch Ness

• Take a loch cruise and search for Nessie ( Book your tour right here! )
• Check out Urquhart Castle
• Walk around the loch (there are various small walking trails) 

Where to stay in Loch Ness

Lots of great Airbnbs available, and this Luxury Croft overlooks Loch Ness on it's own private deck, amazing! Book it here .

11. Stirling 

Stirling is a really cool city in Scotland since it’s sort of created around this awesome castle.

It’s a charming city full of character, and I’m pretty sure I counted like 16 coffee shops on my visit.

We wandered the old town, grabbed some lunch and just took in the sights.

We also did a walk just outside the city centre and got epic views from Sterling from above.

I think this is a beautiful place to visit in Scotland if you’re looking for a romantic city break! 

Things to do in Stirling

• Visit Stirling Castle (it’s not cheap though!)
• Wander the cobblestone streets of the Old Town
• Visit the National Wallace Monument 

Where to stay in Stirling

Stirling has a wide range of hotels available that you can book here.

Bradley and I sort of stumbled across Oban because we needed to get a replacement on our van tyre, but it was definitely worth the drive.

Known as the seafood capital of Scotland, this town is a tourist hot spot in the summer months.

It’s small but mighty! 

We wandered around the town, checking out the shops and views of Ballimore and the Isle of Mull.

We also checked out the McCaig's Tower which was really unique and felt like I’d been transported to Rome! 

Things to do in Oban 

• Catch an awesome view at the McCaig's Tower
• Eat seafood at one of the seat front restaurants
• Visit the Oban Distillery 

You may also like: Best dog friendly hotels in Scotland

Where to stay in Oban

Since it's a popular tourist town, there are lots of hotels to choose from.

‍ Check them out here.

13. Glenfinnan 

Glenfinnan is 100% one of the most beautiful places to visit in Scotland.

Not only can you go to the Glenfinnan Viaduct and catch a view of the Harry Potter train coming across the tracks, but there are so many beautiful walks and sights in this area.

Just across the road from the Viaduct, you’ve got the Glenfinnan Monument with simply amazing views across Loch Shiel and if you drive a little further down the area you’ll come to Loch Eilt which was used a lot in the Harry Potter movies. 

Things to do in Glenfinnan

• Catch a view of the Jacobite Express crossing the viaduct 
• Visit the Glenfinnan Station Museum 
• Taking a cruise on Loch Shiel 

Where to stay in Glenfinnan

Cabin Camas Tana is the ultimate place to stay in Glenfinnan; pure Scottish vibes!

‍ Book it here.

14. Mallaig 

Mallaig is a port town in the Scottish Highlands that is significant due to the workings of the town.

You can either drive there or visit as part of a ride on the Jacobite Express , but it’s worth visiting this small area.

It's a one way in, one way out sort of road, but you can get ferries to other islands in Scotland from here, including the Isle of Skye.

This small town is now home to tourism, but once was thriving fishing, working village.

Now you can visit one of the coffee shops, grab a bite to eat, take a walk around the harbour and pick up some souvenirs! 

Things to do in Mallaig

• Visit the Mallaigh Visitor centre 
• Take a walk around the Pier 
• Grab some fish & chips 

Where to stay in Mallaig

Glenwood glamping pods are a great choice!

Book your stay here.

15. Applecross 

Applecross is one of the towns made famous by the NC500 , but what’s really unique about this pace is that it’s literally in the middle of nowhere.

You drive across an epic mountain pass and eventually, you’ll come to the very small town of Applecross.

It’s raw, it’s beautiful and randomly, it’s home to a hotel, Michelin guide restaurant and lots of deer.

This is one of the best places to visit in Scotland by car and you can’t get there via public transport. 

Things to do in Applecross

• Drive the epic mountain pass known as Bealach na Bà
• Dine at the Applecross inn
• Take one of the many walking trails on offer 

Where to stay in Applecross

The Applecross Inn of course! Book your stay here.

If that's sold out, Fearnmore House not far from Applecross. Book this Airbnb here.

16. Edinburgh

Last but not least on our Scotland travel guide is to visit the capital city of Edinburgh.

We visited over my birthday and it was fantastic.

Edinburgh was everything I'd hoped it would be and more.

Cute cobblestone streets, a ridiculous amount of cute coffee shops, amazing vibes and much more.

I'd say it's one of the best places to visit in Scotland and makes for a perfect Scottish city break. Better yet, you can always hire a car in Edinburgh and then head out to explore the surrounding area.

Things to do in Edinburgh

• Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle
• Shop at the historical Victoria Street
• Check out the National Museum of Scotland

Where to stay in Edinburgh

It's a capital city so there is lots of choice for accommodation. Including some lovely hotels with pools !

17. Falkirk

Wedged between Glasgow and Edinburgh, Falkirk was an unexpected place to visit, but left a lasting impression!

This is a really cool place to visit in Scotland and is home to some super unique sights. 

Firstly, you’ve got the Falkirk Wheel, which is truly random as it’s the ONLY rotating boat lift in the world. 

This is run by the Scottish Canals and a visit here will allow you to not only take a boat cruise but there is so much to see and do on-site, including, crazy golf, waterpark for kids, segway safari, canoeing, and so much more! 

It’s a perfect place to visit in Scotland if you’ve got children, but both Brad and I enjoyed it as adults! 

Falkirk is also home to “The Kelpies” which are truly epic.

They are 30-meter-high horse-head sculptures depicting kelpies and based on legend.

They are a sight to behold and you should 100% visit at nightfall when they light up. It was a fantastic sight to see, very unusual and one of my favourite things to do in Scotland!

Also, if you’re visiting a campervan or motorhome, you can stay at the Helix Carpark (which is where the Kelpies are” for £5 a night which is perfect if you want to see them lit up in the evening! 

Things to do in Falkirk 

• Ride the Falkirk Wheel 
• Admire the Kelpies at night 
• Check out the Torwood Blue Pool

Where to stay in Falkirk 

If you’re not wild camping, then there are a range of hotels in Falkirk to suit you, and you can even rent out boats on the Scottish canals! 

18. Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a coastal city in Scotland located on the east coast.

It’s a typical port city and offers ample opportunities for shopping.

But when visiting here, I suggest you head to the beach, park up, take a stroll along the promenade, and perhaps grab a bite to eat at one of the many on-beach restaurants and cafes.

Then, you should visit Codona's amusement park, which again is perfect for kids, or just big kids like Brad and I. 

We had a wander and played some crazy golf, but there’s also really cool go-kart racing, roller coasters, general amusement games, and much more! 

Things to do in Aberdeen 

• Go on a shopping spree
• Have fun at Codona’s amusement park
• Take a day trip to Craigievar Castle (the pink castle of Scotland!)

Where to stay in Aberdeen 

Being a very popular coastal city, there's lots of choice for accommodation that you can check out here.

19. St Andrews 

Golf enthusiasts will want to visit St Andrews for the fact that it’s home to one of the world’s most famous and oldest golf courses!

‍ That’s partly why Bradley wanted to visit, and we managed to visit on a day where the sun was shining, so we strolled alongside the golf courses and the beautiful beach. 

But, even if you’re not interested in golf, St Andrews should still be on your list of places to visit in Scotland because it’s a super cute and beautiful town!

Lots of sweet shops, cafes, and much more.

We situated ourselves in the British Golf Museums restaurants because they offered amazing views of the beach and golf courses and a range of great food- so we can recommend there! 

Things to do in St Andrews 

• Walk beside the golf courses of St Andrews 
• Stroll along the beach and if you’re brave, try surfing 
• Check out St Andrews cathedral and St Andrews Castle 

Where to stay in St Andrews 

Find all the best accommodation in St Andrews right here.

20. Portknockie

This is a cute little village on the Northeast coast of Scotland and if you’re driving the North East 250 Scotland road trip , then you’ll come across it.

I signify this as a point of interest because it’s got a couple of good sites around it.

Firstly, you’ll have to visit Bow Fiddle Rock which is truly an amazing natural rock formation, and worth visiting, and secondly, there is also Findlater Castle not far down the road. 

Things to do in Portknockie (The North East of Scotland) 

• Grab fish and chips in the village town 
• Take photos of the epic Bow Fiddle Rock 
• Check out the remains of Findlater Castle 

Where to stay in the North East of Scotland

There are lots of places to choose from when it comes to hotels in the North East of Scotland, and Portknockie is home to selection too.

Over to you

‍ So there you have it, my guide to the best places to visit in Scotland.

I hope you’ve found this guide helpful or inspirational in planning your next Scottish adventure.

Which one are you most excited to visit?

Drop me a comment below.

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

Exact time to see solar eclipse tonight and best places in Scotland to spot it

The celestial spectacle will be partially visible from the UK this evening - here's everything to know if you want to catch a glimpse.

• 09:44, 8 APR 2024
• Updated 13:31, 8 APR 2024

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This evening, a solar eclipse is due to take place in what will surely be a spectacular sight to see - and parts of it will be visible from right here in Scotland.

Many areas in North America will be treated to a total solar eclipse on April 8, as the moon moves in between the earth and the sun and blocks its rays from reaching the earth.

Total solar eclipses don't happen very often and the next one isn't due to hit the UK until September 2090. However, it will be partially visible from UK skies tonight, and one Scottish city is likely to have the best view.

Here's everything you need to know if you want to catch a glimpse of the celestial marvel tonight.

When to spot the UK's partial solar eclipse

Keen stargazers will want to cast their eyes to the sky tonight at around 7.52pm this evening, according to Time and Date , as this is when the partial solar eclipse will start to be visible in Scotland.

The sun will still be up at this time, and although the full eclipse won't be seen here, you may be able to see around 20 percent of it right before the sun sets - especially if you live in the west of Scotland.

The partial eclipse will come to an end at around 8.51pm, so you've got around an hour to catch a glimpse. However, it's best to take a look right when it begins, so that the sun is in better view in the sky.

Best places to spot solar eclipse

Because the partial eclipse will be mainly visible from western parts of the UK, Glasgow is one of the best cities to catch a glimpse, with its peak happening at around 8.06pm.

And since it's travelling from east to west, Edinburgh and Aberdeen dwellers may also be able to spot it, peaking at 8pm and 8.02pm respectively.

The western isles will also be treated to a display, and like many other lunar events, getting up on to high ground is essential for a good view. Clear skies are also helpful - but unfortunately, a great deal of cloud cover is forecast tonight, so you could struggle to spot it.

You should never look directly at the sun without the proper eye protection, which includes sunglasses. Using a telescope or binoculars is recommended, but you must have a solar filter in place to avoid damaging your eyes.

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What is a solar eclipse?

An eclipse of the sun happens when the moon moves directly between the sun and the earth, with our planet aligned in the moon's shadow.

But because the moon is a lot smaller than the earth, its shadow only covers a small portion of the earth's surface. Therefore, any solar eclipse will only be visible from certain regions.

In this case, it's the US, Canada and Mexico. After travelling through Mexico first, it will then spread through the US starting in Texas and ending up in Maine before hitting Canada with the final sighting expected in Newfoundland.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Where in the UK to see celestial spectacle

Partial solar eclipse to cross over the republic of ireland, northern ireland, scotland, wales and the west of england, article bookmarked.

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A solar eclipse that passes directly over North America on Monday will be partially visible from parts of the UK, according to forecasters.

The Sun will be completely hidden behind the Moon across large parts of the US, making it appear as though day has briefly turned into night.

:: Follow the latest on the eclipse on our live blog here.

Total darkness will last for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds, while those not directly under the path of totality will see skies darken as the Sun is partially hidden.

In the UK, the partial solar eclipse crosses over the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and the west of England.

The celestial event will take place at sunset in the UK, just before the Sun disappears below the horizon at around 8pm, however it looks likely to be obscured by clouds for many.

• Solar eclipse 2024: Everything you need to know ahead of the solar spectacle
• Small town businesses embrace total solar eclipse crowd, come rain or shine on Monday
• Solar eclipse 2024: A traveller’s guide to the best places to be when the light goes out

The best place to view the spectacle in the British Isles would be the west coast of Ireland, though forecasts from Met Éireann for Monday evening currently predict heavy cloud and rain throughout most of the country.

There are similar forecasts in place for Glasgow and Edinburgh, which will see a 10-11 per cent obscuration, though Wales northern Scotland and South West England have more favourable weather forecasts.

Motoring experts have warned UK drivers about the risk of being distracted by the spectacle.

“It should go without saying that staring directly at the Sun is to be avoided at all costs, and the risk of being temporarily blinded while on the road is all too obvious,” said Graham Conway, managing director at Select Car Leasing.

“Be prepared for sudden changes in light and have your headlights switched on. It’s also wise to watch out for other distracted drivers - and pedestrians - who might be focussed on the skies and not the traffic around them.”

The last solar eclipse to pass over the US in 2017 resulted in an uptick in fatal road accidents, according to a recent research letter published in the scientific journal JAMA Internal Medicine.

A 31 per cent increase in fatal crashes was recorded on 21 August 2017, the authors wrote, attributing part of this surge to heavy traffic from people travelling to and from locations to view the eclipse.

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8 Places You Must-Visit in 2024

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

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, Caithness

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Tobermory on the Isle of Mull

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

Tiree Wave Classic Windsurfing Competition, The Isle Of Tiree

Argyll & The Isles

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

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

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

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

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

Explore Argyll & The Isles

Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate, Banchory

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Got time for two destinations?

Aberdeenshire

Location: North coast of eastern Scotland.

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

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

Visit Aberdeenshire

The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry

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

River Garry

Location: Southern areas of the Highlands.

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

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

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

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

Visit Perthshire

Professional mountain biker Ruaridh Cunningham at 7stanes, Innerleithen

Scottish Borders

Location: South east of central Scotland.

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

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

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

Explore the Scottish Borders

Skiing on Cairngorm Mountain

© VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

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

The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd

The Highlands

Location: Mountainous area in the north west.

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

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

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

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

Explore more in the Scottish Highlands

Stargazing in the Mull of Galloway

Dumfries & Galloway

Location: South west of central Scotland.

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

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

Visit Dumfries & Galloway

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

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

Leven Links Golf Course in the Kingdom of Fife.

© Fife Council / Airborne Lens

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plan your trip to the Kingdom of Fife

Duncansby Stacks, Wick

© markmcgeephotos

Caithness & Sutherland

Location: Furthest north area of mainland Scotland.

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

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

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

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

Learn more about travelling to Caithness & Sutherland

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Eclipse live: Screams, weddings, tears: Millions plunged into darkness as total eclipse travels across US

A rare total solar eclipse turned day into night for millions across Mexico, the US and Canada this evening. Scroll down through our live page to catch up on all the best moments as they happened.

Tuesday 9 April 2024 10:06, UK

• Total eclipse seen for first time - in Mexican city
• Top video moments: Two hours of eclipse in two minutes | Total eclipse hits Mexico | Wedding in Texas darkness | Former astronaut stunned | Sky correspondent in pitch black | Too much for 10-month-old
• More people experience total eclipse than ever before
• Explained: Who saw total solar eclipse and when? | Six stages of a total eclipse
• Updates from US correspondents Mark Stone and Martha Kelner . Live reporting by  Brad Young  and Faith Ridler

That's all for our coverage of the total eclipse.

Crowds cheered, spectators wept and dozens were married as the moon blocked out the sun for approximately four minutes.

The spectacle was seen across three countries, including 15 US states, by more people than any eclipse that came before.

The moon's shadow passed over 32 million peoples' homes, while experts believe another five million people travelled to the best viewing spots to catch a glimpse.

If you're just joining us, here is a recap of some of the experiences this evening:

• A singer-songwriter officiated the marriages of 250 people in a mass eclipse ceremony;
• Animals at a Texan zoo displayed "remarkable" behaviours, confused by the sudden darkness and sunlight;
• An amateur astronomer described his "fingers tingling" and "heart racing" after travelling to the US for the event;
• Others spoke of an "eerie feeling" as temperatures dropped and the sky went black;
• Many talked about the unifying effect of the phenomena.

You can catch up on all the best pictures of the totality over Mexico, US and Canada here.

We've taken the best clips from the past three hours and squeezed them into two minutes here.

And you can read our other coverage of the eclipse   here.

Among those with the most spectacular view tonight must have been the people who gathered at Niagara Falls to watch the full solar eclipse appear.

Here, dozens of people donned protective glasses to observe the natural phenomena near the Horseshoe Falls in Ontario, Canada.

A team of 40 observers watched how the animals reacted at a Texas and saw some "pretty remarkable" results, said its assistant director of animal programs.

Dr John Griffioen, of Forth Worth Zoo, said nocturnal animals like owls and a ringtail woke up and became active.

Other animals like gorillas and tortoises walked towards the barns where they sleep each night.

Flocks of flamingos gathered and became vocal, even marching - a group bonding behaviour.

"We didn't see anything that we would classify as freaking out, we did see some confusion."

When the light returned, Cayotes and Jaguars started acting like it was morning again, behaving more playfully.

Wild songbirds fell silent during the darkness, before resuming making noises after the eclipse passed.

Spectators in Indianapolis told US correspondent Martha Kelner the eclipse reminded them of their small place in the cosmos.

"I was struck by how many people were still wiping away tears," said Kelner.

Organisers said people from 21 countries visited the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where 50,000 people watched the eclipse.

"I think it was a remarkable, unparalleled experience for a lot of the people who were here today," she said.

Among the visitors was Megan, who said: "It was pretty cool. I wasn't sure where to look at first. I heard everyone getting excited all at once, I looked at the sky, and there was the diamond ring effect."

With a spectacle like an eclipse, you can expect a rush of fantastic, somewhat ethereal pictures to emerge from the path of totality - where the moon completely covered the sun for just a few moments.

These stood out in particular - the first from a Delta Airlines eclipse flight in the skies over the US, and the second capturing Manuel Lopez Obrador, the Mexican president, as he viewed the eclipse in Mazatlan.

You can see our round-up of the best of today's pictures below...

A singer-songwriter officiated the marriages of 250 people in a mass eclipse wedding.

Craig Wayne Boyd, who won season seven of the US edition of The Voice, said the vows were exchanged before the four minutes of darkness.

He then sung the first dance for the dozens of couples.

"It was a little nerve-wracking. This was my first wedding to officiate. 

"So I was pretty excited about it and nervous, but everything went off without a hitch."

He added: "The timing had to be perfect because you can't rewind the sun."

Couples travelled from all over the world, all to unite under the unification of the moon, the sun and the Earth, he said.

"There were a lot of tears of happiness. Looking out over the crowd, my own heart was thumping pretty hard."

Mr Boyd said he was still signing some of their marriage certificates.

This is the best 1 minute and 55 seconds you can watch tonight...

Yalda Hakim has just been speaking to NBC News correspondent Jay Gray, who was at an eclipse festival in Junction, Texas.

"There was magic here today, to be frank," he said.

"There were temperatures dropping, daylight shifting into darkness and totality washing over Texas and the whole country, it was amazing to see. 

"We heard birds chirping before totality, it was so silent as things went dark here. 

"Kids had been running around and playing at the festival, they even stopped and knew something special was going on here.

"It lasted a little over three minutes here, we had a couple get married during totality at this eclipse festival in Junction."

Gray said the moment was "even more special because the forecast had not been good".

There were threats of heavy cloud and rain blocking the eclipse, but "locals told us 'don't worry about that, this is the place to be and it'll be fine once we get there'."

They were right.

The sun is reappearing from behind the moon as the total solar eclipse leaves Canada.

There won't be another coast-to-coast spectacle on the continent until 2045.

This was the scene in New York City earlier tonight, where hundreds of people gathered to witness a partial solar eclipse.

These eclipse-chasers made the most of an observation deck at Edge at Hudson Yards.

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What time is the 2024 total solar eclipse on April 8 in Indiana? Search your ZIP code

Today is the day for the 2024 solar eclipse .

Several cities in Indiana will see a total solar eclipse .

Here's what you need to know about which cities, partial eclipse start times, total solar eclipse times and the duration of the total eclipse:

2024 solar eclipse live blog: The total solar eclipse is happening today. What to know about weather, traffic and more

When is 2024 solar eclipse 2024 near me today

What time will the solar eclipse be visible in indiana.

Click on your location in the map to see:

• When the eclipse starts at your location
• What the maximum coverage will be
• What time maximum coverage will occur
• When the eclipse ends at your location
• Chances for clear skies based on historical averages for April 8

Roughly speaking, the peak of the eclipse will happen about 1:55 p.m. CDT in Pensacola and 3:02 p.m. EDT on Miami Beach.

2024 total solar eclipse: Eclipse time is here! When is today's 2024 total solar eclipse? What's the path of totality?

Interactive map: Enter your ZIP code to see when the total solar eclipse starts, peak coverage, when it ends April 8

Can't see our graphics? Click here to reload the page.

Enter your ZIP code to see:

• When the eclipse starts at your location.
• When the peak coverage will be.
• What the peak coverage will be.
• When the eclipse ends.
• How long the partial eclipse will last.
• How are you are from the path of totality.

The time-lapse graphic shows what the eclipse will look like from Indianapolis.

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Bloomington, Indiana, best viewing location Indiana

All times are local ET.

• Start: 1:49 p.m. ET
• Peak: 3:04 p.m.
• End: 3:08 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 100%
• Total solar eclipse time: 4 minutes, 2.5 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Indianapolis

• Start: 1:50 p.m. ET
• Peak: 3:06 p.m.
• End: 3:10 p.m.
• Total solar eclipse time: 3 minutes, 49.4 seconds

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View of 2024 solar eclipse in Carmel, Indiana

• Start: 1:50 p.m.
• End: 3:09 p.m.
• Total solar eclipse time: 3 minutes, 28.9 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Evansville, Indiana

All times are local CT.

• Start: 12:45 p.m.
• Peak: 2:02 p.m.
• End: 2:05 p.m.
• Total solar eclipse time: 3 minutes, 1.1 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Fishers, Indiana

• Start: 1:51 p.m.
• Total solar eclipse time: 3 minutes, 38.5 seconds

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View of 2024 solar eclipse in Terre Haute, Indiana

• Start: 1:48 p.m.
• Total time: 3 minutes, 55.7 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Muncie, Indiana

• Start: 1:52 p.m.
• Peak: 3:07 p.m.
• End: 3:13 p.m.
• Total time: 3 minutes, 46.3 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Richmond, Indiana

• End: 3:11 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 76.6%
• Total time: 3 minutes, 48.7 minutes

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View of 2024 solar eclipse in Noblesville, Indiana

• Total time: 3 minutes, 27.4 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Fortville, Indiana

• Total time: 3 minutes, 48.8 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Anderson, Indiana

• Total time: 3 minutes, 41.9 seconds

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View of 2024 solar eclipse in French Lick, Indiana

• End: 3:07 p.m.
• Total time: 3 minutes, 7.1 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Greenwood, Indiana

• Peak: 3:05 p.m.
• Total time: 3 minutes, 59.5 seconds

View of 2024 solar eclipse in Columbus, Indiana

• Total time: 3 minutes, 44 seconds

Chris Sims is a digital content producer for Midwest Connect Gannett. Follow him on Twitter:  @ChrisFSims .