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From pristine beaches to magnificent castles, exciting cultural attractions and ancient heritage, Scotland has it all. Come pay us a visit. We promise you won't be disappointed.

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Sure, we have stunning castles and monuments. Yeah, we have more than 460 museums and galleries. Of course, we have internationally-renowned, national performance companies. However, we’re also an amazing hotbed of new and emerging music, home to one of the largest concert venues in the UK and have a well-earned reputation for putting on a party and having a great time.

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The Top 15 Places to Visit in Scotland

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

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

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

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

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

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

Ferne Arfin

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

St Andrews - The Home of Golf

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

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

Dundee - UNESCO City of Design

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

The Scottish Borders

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

Cairngorms National Park

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

The Great Glen

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

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

Stirling Castle

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

Loch Awe and Ben Cruachan - the Hollow Mountain

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

The Isle of Skye

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

The Shetlands

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

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

 Argalis/Getty Images

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

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

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

David Lefranc/Getty Images 

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

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

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The 12 Best Road Trips in Scotland

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The Scottish Highlands: The Complete Guide

The 10 Best Day Trips From Edinburgh

One Week in Scotland: The Perfect Itinerary

The Best Time to Visit Scotland

Top 10 Castles to Visit in Scotland

Weather in Scotland: Climate, Seasons and Average Monthly Temperature

The 10 Best Day Trips From Glasgow

Top 8 Things to Do in Fort William, Scotland

15 Most Amazing Scottish Islands to Visit

12 Best Beaches in Scotland

Cairngorms National Park: The Complete Guide

A Guide to Airports in Scotland

The Top 20 Things to Do in the UK

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27 Top Tourist Attractions in Scotland

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The beauty and history of Scotland are never hidden. It’s seen on the streets of Edinburgh and Glasgow, or along the shining coasts of its isles. But these things are so hauntingly captivating, it’s no wonder the past is infused in such mythology.

Exploring the magical landscapes and attractions in Scotland will only bring you closer to understanding these things. As you do so, you’ll grow ever fond of the culture and the tales that stem from each destination. Whether it be the Highlands and the Jacobite rebellion, the maritime history of Shetland, or the mystical cobbled streets of Edinburgh.

By the end, you’ll have discovered a country that has kept its past close by. Not out of necessity, but instead, adoration. And you’ll be all the more grateful for it.

Experience the place that inspired the epic movie “Braveheart”. Truly a place with something for everyone, Scotland is a small country that leaves a big impact on all who pass through. To help you organize your Scottish getaway, below is a list of the top things to do in Scotland that should not be missed.

27. Dunnottar Castle

A true Scottish treasure, the Dunnottar Castle, lies in a hauntingly beautiful ruin atop a cliff facing the North Sea. It’s a site rich in history and the victorious tales of underdogs, one that matches the marvelous scenery. It was here, that 70 castle defenders managed to sneak the Scottish crown jewels through enemy lines to safety against the onslaught of Oliver Cromwell’s forces.

Begin with a walk up a narrow path to the fortress walls, where you’ll be surprised to see just how big the castle is once you get close. The alleyway takes you beyond the walls into the castle grounds where you can explore ancient passageways and chambers with information showing what each section was for. Along the way, you’ll receive great views of the coast and Stonehaven.

26. Edradour Distillery

You may not have Scotland’s smallest distillery on your traveling bingo card. But that’s OK and you should go ahead and add it in. In a land of famous whiskeys, enjoy a different and more intimate experience here. The distillery continues to use old-school, traditional techniques to this very day.

Open to tours and tastings, you can discover the distillery’s humble beginnings in 1825. Trace the creation of handmade single-malt whisky from start to finish. All told, Edradour has mastered 25 unique expressions of the Highland region’s famous Scotch Whisky.

Finish the tour with a sample of many of these, before bringing a wee dram with you on your travels.

25. Calanais Stones

You’ll find yet another amazing example of Neolithic creations at the Calanais Stones. On the Isle of Lewis, these stones date back as far as 2900 BC. Incredibly, it’s estimated that rituals and celebrations took place here for 2,000 years.

The Calanais Stones are similar to Stonehenge, as they are arranged in a circle, presumably based on an astronomical calendar. However, in the center lies an even bigger monolith, which measures almost 5 meters tall!

Beyond the stone circle are almost a dozen similar examples within walking distance. See them all and learn more about their history in the visitor’s center “Story of the Stones” exhibit.

24. Glenfinnan Viaduct

Made internationally famous thanks to a little film called Harry Potter, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is an unmissable attraction. From wherever you choose to stand and point the camera, it’s bound to be one of your favorite photography memories.

There’s something for everyone here. There are the rolling hills that are quintessentially Scottish. Then there’s the historic viaduct and her sensuous archways that rise out of the deep valley. To top it off, there’s the Jacobite Express, a classic automotive that shoots plums of steam towards the heavens.

It’s a complete picture, and one you can immortalize four times daily. But for the best photos, capture the train running westbound.

23. Shetland Museum

Great for young and old, the Shetland Museum peels back the layers of the archipelago’s history and culture. Sitting on the beautiful waterfront in Lerwick, the museum has an array of insightful and interactive exhibits that will have you understand just why Shetland holds such a place in Scottish life.

Your time here begins with understanding how the archipelago came to be, from its geologic beginnings to the 21st century. Most fascinating is its maritime traditions and here at the Shetland Museum you can watch traditional vessels be created by hand in the Boat Shed. The neighboring hall features completed replicas. Complementing this is a collection of local art over the last 300 years.

22. Royal Mile, Edinburgh

Coursing through the heart of Edinburgh , the Royal Mile is alive with a colorful history. The pedestrianized street connects the imposing Edinburgh Castle with the head-turning Palace of Holyroodhouse. These two bookends may be splendid, but what lies in between is a historic and modern treasure trove.

Along the street runs marvelous townhouses and old apartments, many sitting atop boutique stores and restaurants. The crowd is busy and excited. The air is fixed with a sprightly atmosphere. Locals and travelers mix, creating a counterpoint between the “everyday” and the tourist trail.

Along the way, take time to see the St Giles Cathedral, King’s Close, and the Scottish Parliament.

21. Discovery Point, Dundee

Home to the USS Discovery, Discovery Point is the place to go to experience Dundee’s heritage and gain some great views of the town. The star of the show is no doubt the ship which was built in 1901.

Just one year later, the USS Discovery would find itself in the brutal winter waters of Antarctica. The ship would get stuck in the sheets of ice, only to be released in 1904. Science and research continued to be at the forefront of this ship’s endeavors and it returned to the scene of its first voyage in 1925.

And so on it goes. The timeline of the USS Discovery is packed with adventure. One you can get to know as you jump on the deck and explore.

20. Maeshowe

As one of the best examples of the Neolithic era in Europe, your visit to Maeshowe is 5,000 years in the making. The chambered tomb isn’t just a journey back to the dawn of civilization. It also showcases the impact of the Viking Crusaders. You’ll find Maeshowe on the main island of Orkney.

A masterpiece of Neolithic design, Maeshowe features epic stone construction using enormous pieces that simply defy our understanding of the time. You can venture into the stone passage, retracing the footsteps of those who first lived here.

Beyond the tombs are the remains of ancient villages, stone circles, and graveyards. You’ll also see the “graffiti” left by Vikings who conquered the region in the 12th century.

19. Rosslyn Chapel

Although not as big as some other chapels in Scotland, the Rosslyn Chapel leaves a mark thanks to its extraordinary interior. This features finely detailed stonework and craftsmanship that have simply been lost.

The chapel may appear familiar to some. Scenes from the Da Vinci Code were filmed here, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a place of great religious significance. The sculpted ceiling ablaze with stars, roses, doves, and olive branches is utterly spellbinding.

However, the real highlight is the Prentice Pillar. It was carved by an apprentice stonemason. Such was the magnificence of his work that the master mason felt threatened and killed him.

18. Luskentyre Beach, Outer Hebrides

One of the best beaches in the UK, Luskentyre Beach, is a miles-long stretch of white sand. In the beautiful Outer Hebrides, the beach is lapped by emerald-hued waters. It all combines to have you feeling a world away from Scotland.

But of course, that’s what the Scottish Isles do. They show you just how diverse the landscapes are here. There is so much “wow” factor. On a sunny day, the seas appear straight from the Caribbean and the ivory sands are like a Tempur-pedic. However, the presence of highland cows and the northern winds brings you right back to the moment.

Aside from sunbathing, there are several great hiking and biking trails to splendid views of the beach and coast.

17. Riverside Museum, Glasgow

Glasgow has a litany of beautiful old buildings. But what about striking modern architecture? Well, just wait until you see the eye-catching Riverside Museum. Of course, the captivating facade is just a small taste of what’s coming.

The Riverside Museum explores the history of transportation in and around Glasgow and Scotland as a whole. You’ll find amazing exhibits on the history of cars made in the country. This is complemented by a selection of historic trains, trams, and bikes. The latter even has the world’s first pedal-powered bicycle!

As you’ll notice on the way in, the museum also features the 19th-century Glenlee. This is a 3-masted Tall Ships with its own collection of exhibits and tales.

16. Culloden Battlefield

Scottish history is littered with as much tragedy as triumph. Arguably the most somber and tragic event of them all occurred on the Culloden Battlefield. The seismic events that ensued changed the future of clans in the Highlands and brought about the end of the Jacobite rebellion.

In a single hour, 1,600 men lost their lives. Over 90% of those were Jacobites who fell in a devastating defeat to the British Red Coats. A loss that would greatly alter the Highland way of life.

You can fully explore this battle, the lead-up, and the aftermath at the onsite museum before exploring the eerie battlegrounds of Culloden Moor.

15. Golf at St. Andrews

Set in the foreground of the imposing St. Andrews Cathedral, this beloved golf course of the same name has a remarkable history. It’s the oldest golf course on earth, with the first tee occurring in the 16th century.


As you can expect, getting a tee time here in the 21st century is incredibly coveted. The par 72 course does, however, remain public. So with some prior planning, you’ll be able to break out the clubs and make your way down the historic St. Andrews. The only sticking point is the requirement of a handicap of 36 or under.

Although golf carts are available, walking the gorgeous course is a big part of the experience.

14. Portree, Isle of Skye

The beautiful harbor town of Portree is much more than just the capital of the Isle of Skye. In fact, it encapsulates much of what is exciting about the island. Portree is a quintessential Scottish experience.

Arriving by boat is a great way to be introduced to the island town. As you slowly get closer, old whitewashed, and tan cottages become clearer. So too do the sharp cliffs upon which they sit.

Beyond your first introduction, you’ll find Portree offers a nice balance between modern luxuries and a rich heritage. Cute shops and great local cuisine can be found throughout. Plus, one of those adorable cottages could be your home for the night.

For those looking to capture the charming town, you’ll find some of the best views of town along Basville Terrace

13. Loch Lomond

In Trossachs National Park, Loch Lomond is the largest loch in Scotland. It’s a veritable mirror at the base of a vast valley surrounded by rising hills coated in dense forest. Pristine and protected, the lake quickly wins you over and you’ll be itching to dive in for a swim.

Thankfully, there are several sandy eddies where you can put the towel down for a moment and take a dip in the refreshing mountain waters. But if you want to go a little further, stop by the lakeside towns of Balloch, Arrochar, and Drymen. These charming towns will be vying for your patronage in the evenings, but they’re also the spot to go to grab a kayak. Cruises are also available.

If the forest is what most interests you, embark on a short section of the West Highland Way which caresses the lake’s edge.

12. National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh

So much of Scotland is characterized by its history. You may not have the chance to visit all of these places, and even if you do, there’s always more to learn. To dive even deeper into a breadth of topics at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh .

It’s the best museum in the country, allowing you to jump into a portal and explore Scotland’s rich past in its History and Archaeology hall. Rich displays of artifacts like 12th-century chess pieces and even the crown jewels, quickly muster your attention.

But there’s much more to see. The World Cultures, Art and Design, and the Science and Technology sections help explore the present and future both here and abroad.

11. The Kelpies

Not far from Edinburgh, the Kelpies are a unique roadside attraction. Long before you reach your destination, you’ll see the giant sculptures of the heads of two horses. They are the centerpieces of The Helix, which is a fun park that’s perfect for a midday picnic.

Despite looking quite friendly, the Kelpies are seen as evil creatures or spirits in Scottish folklore. Many ancient stories feature them, including the one about the Loch Ness Monster!

Just behind the Kelpies, is a canal with a walking path on either side. Along with the open spaces, the wider park makes for a great spot to stretch your legs and have a bite to eat.

10. Ben Nevis

Scotland’s biggest mountain, Ben Nevis is a part of the country’s famed Three Peaks. These may not be the Himalayas, but they’re no less culturally and historically important. Over 100,000 hikers come to the region every year in the hopes of making it to the very top.

When the snow has gone and the conditions suit, Ben Nevis is a peak that hikers of decent fitness can “bag”. But come the winter, the brutal Scottish wind and snow combine to turn Ben Nevis into a climb for mountaineers.

If you aren’t up for the challenge, you can admire the beauty of the peak from the base. Or, instead, make your way down the rocky, winding path through the stunning Steall Gorge where the 120m Steal Ban waterfall lingers on the other side.

9. Melrose Abbey

In the 600s, Melrose was settled by monks creating the first monastic township in Scotland. For 400 years, the original abbey housed members of the Cistercian order until what we now know as Melrose Abbey was built in 1136.

Faithful restorations took place in the 14th and 15th centuries, ensuring much of the abbey would last to the modern day. The mix of present-day ruins, ancient archways, and columns makes for a hauntingly beautiful sight. While you’re here, head to Chapter House, rumored to be the resting place of Robert the Bruce’s heart. Afterward, check out the medieval artifacts in the Commendator’s House museum.

8. Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye

In a land that personifies enchantment, there may be no greater symbol than the Old Man of Storr. On the Isle of Skye, this narrow tower of rock is the centerpiece of an unforgettable landscape.

After making your way to the car park, you’ll embark on a roughly 2km journey to up-close views of the pinnacle. But around 20 minutes in you’ll get your first glimpse, which will only cause you to walk faster.

As it gets closer, you’ll marvel at ancient volcanic plus even more. But slowly the surrounding landscapes, which are equally captivating, become ever clearer. With the Old Man of Storr in the middle, the expansive valley will have you believing in a higher power.

7. Skara Brae, Orkney

One of the best-preserved Neolithic communities in Europe, Skara Brae, is not to be missed. It takes you back 5,000 years, well beyond the pyramids and Stonehenge!

On Orkney Island, this incredible settlement was rediscovered after hundreds of years, thanks to a hefty rain storm. That was in 1850, and it still remains a vital look into what human life was like long before the Romans and Greeks.

A trail takes you through the 9-home settlement. Markers are placed along the path indicating a timeline of historic events, such as the moon landing, to show you just how much time has really passed.

You can explore some of the homes, with ancient cabinets and stone craftsmanship, showing just how sophisticated the community was.

6. Stirling Castle

There’s something about Scottish castles that refuses to get old. No matter how many you visit, the unique tales and distinct architectural beauty will keep your hair standing up. This is certainly the case at Stirling Castle.

Set atop a craggy outcrop, enveloped in old-growth pines, Stirling Castle is one of the most important in the country. Beyond the medieval walls that protected it, the castle played a significant role in battles between Scotland and England. So much so that Stirling Castle became a symbol of Scottish sovereignty.

As you explore the castle, you’ll discover more of its past, including how many kings and queens were anointed here. The most important of those being Mary, Queen of Scots.

5. Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Glasgow

In the early parts of the 1900s, the Glasgow-style art movement swept throughout the region. This was in connection to the burgeoning Art Nouveau style and ended with some of the most renowned Scottish works, including that of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. You can see the best of this at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

But like any good gallery, the curators didn’t put all their eggs in one basket. Beyond local art, you’ll find halls dedicated to famous works completed by Van Gogh and Salvador Dali. The latter is celebrated with an exhibit of the Christ of St. John of the Cross.

Beyond art, you’ll get up close to ancient artifacts from the Bronze Age. Plus free concerts take place daily.

4. Loch Ness

Scotland is the land of lochs and none are more famous than Loch Ness. Home to the legendary Nessie, aka the Loch Ness Monster, Loch Ness has been shrouded in fandom for decades. Of course, you’ll want to go and see what all the fuss is about. Once you’re there, you’ll not only be enchanted with the captivating scenery but also the chance to see the mysterious beast.

Although your chances are slim, they’re never zero. The good news is, there’s much to do around Loch Ness besides hunting for the elusive Nessie. It’s the second largest body of water in Scotland and in combination with the lush surrounding hills, the scenery is spectacular.

You can see all the best sites and views with a drive along the loch’s western shores. This will bring you face-to-face with Urquhart Castle. With the loch in the background, the 13th-century castle makes for memorable photos. But be sure to explore the rooms and towers before searching for a nearby beach to go for a swim.

3. Eilean Donan

There isn’t a shortage of ancient castles in Scotland. Which is why Eilean Donan is even more memorable. Among such tough competition, the 13th-century marvel (which has been dutifully reconstructed), Eilean Donan may just be the most spectacular in the country.

It sits on a small island in the western Highlands of Scotland where three large lochs meet. The tower stands above the shades of green and flowing trees with its reflection painted on the lake no matter where you stand.

After crossing an adorable stone bridge, you’ll be able to explore almost all the castles. Old halls and chambers are laden with history taking you on a journey to the very beginning, through clan warfare, the Jacobite rebellion, and modern-day renewal.

2. Edinburgh Castle

Since the 14th century, Edinburgh Castle has been the centerpiece of Edinburgh’s marvelous skyline. IIntimidating all who would challenge them, the Scottish utilized the castle for all of their major battles and military strategizing. A strong standing symbol of their perseverance and struggle for independence, Edinburgh Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in Scotland.

Atop of hill of basalt rock, it’s an unforgettable site from the base. But believe us, the views of Edinburgh from the castle’s surrounds are just as incredible. It all begins by crossing the historic moat and wandering along the drawbridge. Where afterward you’ll be able to gaze down on the city like a king or queen.

The castle is open to explore further, and it paints a thorough picture of Scotland throughout time. Once you’re done, head back down and explore the Royal Mile.

Deep in the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe is home to some of the region’s best scenery. Throughout the rugged, windswept hills are historic tales of victory and defeat. Beauty and tragedy walk arm in arm through the valley as such a marvelous sight is also the spot where thousands died in clan warfare.

In Glencoe, you can really sense the beauty and past. It’s easy to see why it was so beloved among the clans and why the Scottish hold the region so dear to their heart. One of the best ways to explore the surrounding Highlands is on the 4-hour Pap of Glencoe Trail.

As for the town itself, you can expect and sweet, charming place where old-time recipes are still found in cozy pubs and restaurants.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Scotland

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Reader interactions.

February 25, 2019 at 6:04 pm

These photos are such beautiful pictures! Glad Scotland is my culture!

August 31, 2016 at 1:39 pm

Absolutely gorgeous! Thanks for the amazing photos, just got back from 3 weeks in Scotland and these are perfect reminders of its’ beauty.

October 28, 2014 at 2:28 pm

We are looking into a driving tour of scotland and this is perfect. Thanks

October 16, 2012 at 1:06 am

Some new places to visit soon!! hehe!! Thanks for sharing them 🙂

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Must-see attractions in Central Scotland

Stirling Castle

Hold Stirling and you control Scotland. This maxim has ensured that a fortress of some kind has existed here since prehistoric times. You cannot help…

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Falkirk Wheel

Central Scotland

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Innerpeffray Library

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Scotland’s oldest lending library (founded in 1680) houses a huge collection of rare, interesting and ancient books, some of them 500 years old. If you…

The Kelpies, the stunning equine statues gracing the eastern entrance to the Forth & Clyde Canal, are named after mythical Scottish water-horses. The two…

Lindores Abbey Distillery

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Old Town Jail

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Falkland Palace

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Doune Castle

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Magnificent Doune Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Scotland, having remained largely unchanged since it was built for the duke…

St Andrews Cathedral

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Scotland's Secret Bunker

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Culross Palace

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Scottish Fisheries Museum

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National Wallace Monument

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Black Watch Museum

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Fergusson Gallery

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Dunfermline Abbey & Palace

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Bannockburn Heritage Centre

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Castle Campbell

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St Andrews Castle

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St Serfs Church & Dupplin Cross

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Kirkcaldy Galleries

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Lochleven Castle

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Argyll's Lodging

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Famous Grouse Experience

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Aberdour Castle

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Isle of May

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Perth Museum & Art Gallery

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Cambo Walled Garden

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Dunblane Cathedral

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Deep Sea World

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British Golf Museum

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Kellie Castle

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Meigle Museum

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Smith Art Gallery & Museum

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Stirling Old Bridge

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Earthquake House

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Deil's Cauldron

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Scotland Tourist Attractions Map

Looking for things to do in Scotland? This tourist map highlights the best attractions to help you plan the perfect Scottish sightseeing tour. Scroll around the map and click on each icon to visit the attraction information pages.

New! → CLICK HERE to see 360° virtual tours of Scottish tourist attractions.

Recommended Tourist Attractions in Scotland

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most beautiful part of scotland.

There is no single ‘most beautiful’ part of Scotland, but there are a few areas that are widely regarded as being particularly beautiful. These include the Isle of Skye (especially the Quiraing), Glencoe, Loch Lomond, Glenfinnan, and the Isle of Lewis and Harris.

Other places that are considered amongst the most beautiful in Scotland are Edinburgh for its atmospheric medieval buildings, Cairngorm National Park for its dramatic mountain ranges, and Pitlochry for its unspoilt forests.

What should you not miss when visiting Scotland?

Must-do’s for anyone visiting Scotland include Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, the Isle of Skye (especially the Quiraing, the Fairy Pools, and the Storr), Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, Loch Ness, and the Cairngorm National Park.

Visitors on an extended tour of Scotland should try to include; Glasgow city centre, Stirling Castle, Ben Nevis, the Isles of Mull and Islay, and the North Coast 500 route.

What is the best area to stay in Scotland?

The best area to stay in depends on how long you intend to spend in Scotland and where you will be travelling to.

Edinburgh is a recommended place to stay to explore the city, the Scottish Borders, and Central Scotland. Glasgow is a recommended place to stay to explore the city, the Trossachs, Strathclyde, and Dumfries & Galloway. Portree is a recommended place to stay to explore the Isle of Skye. Fort William is a recommended place to stay to explore the Highlands. Inverness is a recommended place to stay to explore the North Highlands.

What is the best time of year to visit Scotland?

The best time to visit Scotland depends on where you will be visiting, however, May is usually warm, midge-free, has low average rainfall, and is cheaper as it is out of the peak tourist season.

The two largest cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow have many attractions within a small area which can be enjoyed at all times of the year, and Edinburgh, in particular, has superb Christmas festivals in December.

The Highlands are extraordinarily beautiful in summer (June to August) but they are often plagued by midges. May and September in the Highlands see warm temperatures, fewer midges, and fewer tourists than in summer. Winter is generally best avoided for all but the most hardened hillwalkers.

20 Most Beautiful Places & Beauty Spots in Scotland

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

Dunnottar Castle Aberdeenshire

A couple at Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven

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

• On Public Transport Route
• Pets Welcome

Bow Fiddle Rock Moray

Bow Fiddle Rock, Portknockie

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

Isle of Iona Isle of Iona

Looking across the coast to the jetty on Iona

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

Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands North Uist

Camping at Clachan Sands

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

Bealach na Ba Wester Ross

Bealach na Ba

© @wills_onthehills

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

Loch Ken Galloway Forest Park

Loch Ken, Galloway Forest Park

© VisitScotland / Damian Shields

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

Glenfinnan Fort William

Glenfinnan Monument

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

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

• Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
• Hearing Loop
• Cafe or Restaurant

Eoligarry Beach Isle of Barra

Eoligarry Beach, Isle of Barra

© @steve_gormley

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

An Lochan Uaine Cairngorms National Park

An Lochan Uaine

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

Mealt Falls Isle of Skye

Mealt Falls and Kilt Rock, Isle of Skye

Mealt Falls on the north of Skye is an incredible sight. Partnered with the popular Kilt Rock, together they create a fantastic viewpoint. 

Rannoch Moor Perthshire

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

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam, all rights reserved.

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

National Wallace Monument Stirling

The Wallace Monument in autumn

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

Ullapool Wester Ross

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

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

St Abb's Scottish Borders

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

Glen Clova Angus Glens

Corrie Fee, Glen Clova

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

Fingal's Cave Isle of Staffa

Fingals Cave on Staffa Island

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

Corryvreckan Whirlpool Isle of Jura

Corryvreckan Whirlpool

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

Loch Lomond Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Walkers on Conic Hill

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

Yesnaby Castle sea stack Orkney

Yesnaby Castle sea stack on the west coast of Orkney

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

Tobermory Isle of Mull

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

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins, all rights reserved.

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

Find out more

We might be biased, but we think Scotland truly is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Why not share your beautiful holiday destinations over on our social platforms -  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  X (formerly Twitter) ?

There are plenty of beautiful places to visit in every region, but why not slow down your travels and experience all that Scotland has to offer?

Discover more about slow travel in Scotland

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Glasgow

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Located on the River Clyde, Glasgow has been transformed from an industrial city to Scotland's cultural center, with its excellent museums, art galleries, concert venues, and festivals. Its Gaelic name, meaning "lovely green place," is apt, given its 70 parks and open spaces. Music lovers of all kinds will find plenty of things to do in Glasgow, known as Scotland's music capital , with venues that include the Theatre Royal (home of the Scottish Opera) and the Concert Hall (home of the Royal Scottish Orchestra).

Important cultural events include the Celtic Connections Music Festival and the Gourock Highland Games , and it's also a busy sports town, home to two major league football (soccer) clubs and a rugby club.

One of Glasgow's major attractions for tourists is its relationship with Charles Rennie Mackintosh , founder of the Glasgow School of Art, a major factor in the Arts & Crafts Movement. Buildings, museums, and even a cemetery feature his and his associates' works. To learn more about these and other fun things to do, be sure to refer often to our list of the top attractions in Glasgow Scotland.

See also: Where to Stay in Glasgow

1. Glasgow Cathedral

2. glasgow school of art, 3. kelvingrove art gallery and museum, 4. george square and the merchant district, 5. a walk through the necropolis, 6. the university of glasgow: the hunterian museum and art gallery, 7. riverside museum and tall ship, 8. glasgow science centre & glasgow tower, 9. pollok house and pollok country park, 10. kibble palace and glasgow botanic gardens, 11. glasgow green and the people's palace, 12. the national piping centre and the bagpipe museum, 13. gallery of modern art (& other must-visit galleries), 14. the tenement house, 15. glasgow central station, 16. the lighthouse, where to stay in glasgow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in glasgow, glasgow - climate chart, more must-see attractions near glasgow.

The city's most significant historic building is the 12th-century Glasgow Cathedral, also known as St. Mungo Cathedral or the High Kirk of Glasgow. Seen from both inside and out, it looks as if it dropped out of a giant mold: the lines are clear, and there's no superfluous ornamentation.

Projecting from the south transept is the Blacader Aisle, named after the first bishop of Glasgow. The grandest room in the cathedral, however, is the crypt, which houses the tomb of St. Mungo, founder of the bishopric, who was buried here in AD 603. Although a visit to the cathedral is regarded as one of the top free things to do in Glasgow, donations are always welcome. Guided tours are also available free of charge.

Next door is the St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art , which examines the world religions, their rites, and how their doctrines deal with the issues of life and death. Exhibits include Egyptian mummies, Hindu statues, and a Zen Buddhist garden in the courtyard.

Address: Castle Street, Glasgow

Official site: www.glasgowcathedral.org.uk

Mackintosh's Art Academy is essential viewing for lovers of fine architecture. Completed in 1909, this Art Nouveau building confirmed the reputation of 28-year-old designer Charles Mackintosh, not just as a master of the exterior-the grand west facade is dominated by three 65-foot-high oriel windows, and the smaller windows on the east front are reminiscent of Scottish castles-but also as a superb interior designer.

The most famous rooms include the Principal's Room, one of the first of Mackintosh's "White Rooms;" the Mackintosh Room, where meetings of the Academy of Art are held; and the unique Library and Gallery. Student-led tours explore Mackintosh's work and influence and include galleries of his furniture and other works.

Address: 167 Renfrew Street, Glasgow

Official site: www.gsa.ac.uk

The bustling entertainment and shopping mecca of Sauchiehall Street , now almost entirely given over to pedestrians, is more than 1.5 miles long and offers the largest range of shops in the city. Sauchiehall Street ends at Argyle Street in the city's West End , a trendy area of cafés, restaurants, high-end shops, posh hotels, and, perhaps most importantly, the wonderful Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

Opened in 1901, the museum has a fine collection of British and continental paintings, including such gems as Van Gogh's portrait of the Glaswegian art collector Alexander Reid, and Salvador Dali's Christ of Saint John of the Cross .

An exceptional series of galleries feature the Glasgow School of Art and its best-known figure, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, with complete furnished rooms, pottery, metalwork, furniture, and other works of art. Scottish archaeological finds include Bronze Age tools and jewelry from Arran, Kintyre, and Glenluce.

Other exhibits of interest include weapons and armor, such as helmets, crossbows, and swords from the 15th and 16th centuries, as well as Flemish tapestries, Glasgow-made jewelry, silverware, glassware, and pottery from various periods.

Address: Argyle Street, Glasgow

Official site: www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/kelvingrove/Pages/default.aspx

At the heart of Glasgow's historic Victorian city center stands the flower-bedecked George Square with its 12 statues of famous people associated with the city, including Robbie Burns, Walter Scott, and Queen Victoria. The east end of the square is dominated by the Town Hall and its 230-foot tower completed in 1890, while the Merchants' House is the headquarters of Britain's oldest Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1605.

South of George Square, a group of mid-19th-century warehouses are part of the city's trendy Merchant City district that, along with The Italian Centre, offer unique cafés, restaurants, and designer boutiques. The area is particularly attractive in winter, when families and those here enjoying some Glasgow sightseeing are bedazzled with an impressive display of Christmas lights.

Neighboring Glasgow Cathedral is the Necropolis, a Victorian Gothic garden cemetery that covers 37 acres that has famously been described as a "city of the dead." It is filled with not only beautiful memorial stones — all told, some 3,500 of them — but also sculptures and buildings designed by Glasgow artists, including Charles Rennie Macintosh.

Intricately carved Celtic crosses mingle here with weeping angels in atmospheric surroundings of tree-shaded walks that open to views of the cathedral and city. A variety of informative walking tours are available, and recommended.

Official site: www.glasgownecropolis.org/

The University of Glasgow dates from 1451 and is the second-oldest school of higher education in Scotland. The university has employed many illustrious teachers over the centuries, including James Watt; Adam Smith; and the "father of antiseptic surgery," Joseph Lister. A permanent exhibition at the Visitor Centre in University Avenue goes into more detail about the important discoveries made by these and other scientists who taught here.

Another famous scientist with connections to the university was William Hunter, an 18th-century Glaswegian doctor who bequeathed his collection of anatomical parts, coins, and objets d'art to form the basis of the Hunterian Museum. The museum now includes collections from the departments of ethnography, zoology, geology, and archaeology, including many finds from Roman sites. Artwork on display includes works by Rubens, Rembrandt and Reynolds .

The gallery also houses the reassembled principal interiors from the Glasgow home of architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his artist-wife, Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh.

Address: University Avenue, Glasgow

Official site: www.gla.ac.uk/hunterian/

Glasgow's ultra-modern, award-winning Riverside Museum includes many of the exhibits from the city's former Transport Museum, including model ships, locomotives, trams, vintage cars, and horse-drawn carriages. The majority are Glasgow-built.

A superb reconstruction of a 1938 Glasgow street has been added to the displays, as well as exhibits on immigration and disasters, featuring the sinking of the Lusitania . The Tall Ship at Riverside is docked just outside, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the Glenlee , a Glasgow-built three-masted barque that has been carefully restored by the Clyde Maritime Trust. Interesting guided tours are available, sometimes with costumed guides.

Those interested in museums and antiquities should also plan on paying a visit to the Glasgow Museums Resource Centre . This fascinating facility is where many of the city's museums store their collections when they are not on display. Think of it a little like a visit to a Costco, but nothing's for sale. It's a large place, with its many storage rooms stacked high with everything from artworks and sculptures to armor and weaponry; in fact, more than 1.5 million artifacts are stored here, so chances are you'll see something of interest.

Guided tours are provided, along with interesting lectures and workshops, including programs aimed at younger travelers.

Address: 100 Pointhouse Road, Glasgow

Official site: www.thetallship.com/

A must-visit sightseeing opportunity for families, the Glasgow Science Centre is a great way to spend time together. Located in the waterfront area near the Riverside Museum, this popular attraction is housed in a suitably striking titanium-clad building shaped like a ship's hull and offers no-end of hands-on fun and exploration.

Notable exhibits include human health, technology, and general scientific principles, along with a variety of laboratory-type stations where kids can attempt a few practical experiments based on their newly acquired knowledge. Also worth checking out here are the planetarium, an Imax cinema, and a science theater, where regular lectures and talks are held.

This is also the site of Glasgow Tower , Scotland's tallest building. It soars 127 meters (417 feet) high and offers panoramic views of Glasgow and the surrounding landscape from its observation platform. What makes this a truly unique spectacle, however, is that the entire structure is able to rotate a full 360 degrees. It was designed this way to withstand wind, and is the tallest of its kind in the world.

Although it is perfectly safe, the tower closes to visitors on particularly windy days because its movement underfoot can be quite unsettling.

Address: 50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow

Official site: www.glasgowsciencecentre.org

Close to four miles southwest of Glasgow's city center, the grounds of Pollok House cover an area of 355 acres. The home of the Maxwell family, this Edwardian mansion was built in 1752 by William Adam and his sons.

The majority of the expansive building is now open for visitors to explore, from the grand entrance hall to the extensive servants' quarters. Sir William Stirling Maxwell's collection of Spanish paintings by El Greco, Goya, Murillo, and Velázquez hangs on display, as well as several significant works by William Blake. Guided and self-guided tours are available.

The adventurous will want to try the unique "Escape the Past" game, a fully interactive exhibit that challenges players to solve puzzles and find their way back to present-day. The grounds of the estate include the Pollok Country Park, where you can admire the meticulously kept gardens or walk some of the trails that lead through woodlands and to the river side, and follow in the footsteps of characters from the hit TV show, Outlander . A highlight of a visit is the chance to enjoy a meal or snack in the Edwardian Kitchen café.

Address: 2060 Pollokshaws Road, Glasgow

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/Property/Pollok-House/

For more than 200 years, the Glasgow Botanic Gardens have served as an oasis of natural beauty for the residents and visitors of Glasgow's West End . Originally founded in 1817, the gardens began as a conservatory for students at the University of Glasgow .

Built in 1873, Kibble Palace is the main attraction and one of the largest glasshouses in Britain. It contains a collection of rare orchids; tree ferns from Australia and New Zealand; and plants from Africa, the Americas, and the Far East. The grand structure is constructed of wrought iron and glass, providing a striking setting. Additional glasshouses include a variety of tropical plants that can be enjoyed year-round.

Among the outdoor gardens are the World Rose Garden and Children's Garden , which has a playground. There is also a designated walking path designed with families in mind, as well as a Heritage Trail that leads to the Kelvin Walkway .

One of the most popular things to do at the Glasgow Botanic Gardens is have a formal tea at the Tearoom in the Curator's House. Open seasonally, visitors can enjoy sitting among the foliage and flowers while enjoying a traditional tea time. There are also year-round dining options on-site, as well as plenty of space to spread out on the grass with a picnic.

Another beautiful park to visit is Bellahouston Park , site of the 1938 Empire Exhibition attended by more than 13 million visitors and still popular for its colorful flowerbeds. A star attraction here is the wonderfully named House for an Art Lover , built in 1996 to a design by Charles Mackintosh. This picturesque structure frequently hosts art exhibits and other events, while the park itself hosts frequent music concerts. Greenbank Gardens is another beautiful spot which features pools and fountains within its multiple walled gardens.

Address: 730 Great Western Road, Glasgow

Official site: www.glasgowbotanicgardens.com

Laid out in 1662, Glasgow Green is by far the oldest of the city's parks and is an easy walk from the city center. One of the park's main attractions is the People's Palace, a museum built in 1898 that tells the story of Glasgow from 1750 through the 20th century. Exhibits include a reproduction of a "Single End" home from the 1930s, a look at "the steamie" bathhouses, and a display dedicated to remembering the dance hall at the Glasgow Barrowlands Ballroom.

The Winter Garden , a large conservatory at the back of the palace, contains a fine collection of tropical and subtropical plants. Be sure to also visit the lovely Doulton Fountain , the world's largest terracotta fountain. An impressive 46 feet high and 70 feet across, it was built to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee and contains figures from across the Commonwealth. Another attraction is Nelson's Monument, an impressive column built in 1806 to commemorate Horatio Nelson's victories.

Address: Glasgow Green, Glasgow

Official site: www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/peoples-palace/Pages/default.aspx

The National Piping Centre is an excellent resource for those with a passion for bagpipes and drumming, whether as a performer or a fan. Lessons and courses are available, including intensive bagpipe schools held at a variety of locations worldwide. The National Piping Centre is also home to the superb Museum of Piping , which includes piping memorabilia belonging to Robbie Burns and the 17th-century Iain Dall MacKay chanter, the world's oldest surviving bagpipe relic.

A well-stocked shop brimming with piping related supplies, music, and mementoes is also open to the public (the center also has its own hotel and restaurant). Glasgow hosts the annual World Pipe Band Championship , the world's largest such festival, held every August on Glasgow Green.

Address: 30-34 McPhater Street, Glasgow

Official site: www.thepipingcentre.co.uk

For art lovers, Glasgow is something of a feast. In addition to facilities such as the Kelvingrove Art Gallery, this revitalized city has more galleries and related things to do than could possibly be enjoyed in a day or two, so plan on staying longer to get a true Glaswegian art fix.

Leading our list of other must-visit art facilities is the superb Gallery of Modern Art . Known locally simply as the "GOMA," this Romanesque structure is home to an often changing roster of exhibits featuring both local and international artists, along with workshops and lectures. And keep a look out for the equestrian statue outside the facility-chances are it'll have a cone placed on its rider's head, a typical Glaswegian gesture indicating an often irreverent attitude to local authorities, who have long since given up removing it.

The Burrell Collection is another gallery that should be included in your Glasgow art itinerary. Located in Pollok Country Park, this impressive collection features important medieval artworks, stained glass, sculptures, plus tapestries dating back over 500 years.

Address: Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow

Official site: www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/venues/gallery-of-modern-art-goma

This small museum is a time capsule of the life of Agnes Toward, a typist who lived alone in one of Glasgow's 19 th -century tenement apartments from 1911 through 1965. Although she remained in this home for over 50 years, Agnes's residence changed very little from how she kept it in the 1920s, almost frozen in time. Preserved by the National Trust for Scotland, the home sits just as it did when Agnes lived here.

Among the most interesting features of the apartment are its working gas lights and the original 1892 coal-fired kitchen stove, complete with stovetop, oven, and iron-heating racks. The kitchen is fully outfitted with century-old cookware and cleaning supplies, including a hand-crank laundry wringer. Each room contains its original furniture, including well-preserved Victorian-era horsehair chairs, a box bed, a piano, and a pedal-operated sewing machine in excellent condition.

The collection here is particularly unique because Agnes kept many everyday items that most would have disposed of, offering visitors the chance to see the more mundane items that are often excluded from historic re-creations.

Address: 145 Buccleuch Street, Glasgow

Glasgow Central Station is well worth a visit even if you aren't planning to hop aboard a train. This beautiful Victorian station exudes grandeur and historic charm while serving as Scotland's busiest rail station, fitted with modern amenities. It opened in 1879 as the city's second major station, and today houses a variety of restaurants, cafés, and shops.

Among its most stunning architectural features is Heilanman's Umbrella (Scottish Gaelic for "Highlandman's Umbrella"), a glass-walled bridge that connects the main station to Argyle Street. It was given this name because this was a common meeting place for immigrants from the north, providing them a centrally located spot that offered cover.

It is also home to the voco Grand Central Glasgow hotel, which features a lovely Queen Anne-style façade. Visitors can book tours that explore the station's hidden vaults and abandoned subterranean platforms.

The Lighthouse is home to Scotland's Centre for Design and Architecture, which features both permanent and rotating art exhibits of contemporary Glasgow artists and designers. It is also home to an exhibit honoring Charles Rennie Mackintosh who designed the building, formerly home to the Herald newspaper. The Lighthouse is also known for Mackintosh Tower , a stunning stone structure that can be climbed via a spiral staircase for excellent views.

Those into other art forms, including music, film, literature, and theater, should also visit the Centre for Contemporary Arts . They host a variety of exhibits, workshops, performances, and festivals year-round.

Address: 11 Mitchell Lane, Glasgow

Official site: www.thelighthouse.co.uk

Glasgow's top attractions are so widely spread that it's impossible to stay near all of them. But it's a pleasant city to explore on foot, and many attractions are within walking distance of the cluster of shops and restaurants around the pedestrianized blocks of Sauchiehall Street. Fortunately, that area of Glasgow also has a number of these highly rated hotels . Here are a few of our favorites:

Luxury Hotels :

• Smartly decorated in an updated Art Deco mode with a nod to its place in auto racing history, Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel and its prize-winning spa and restaurant are five minutes from Sauchiehall and McIntosh's famed Willow Tea Rooms.
• Closer to the River Clyde and the central rail station, Hotel Indigo Glasgow is also handy to restaurants and shops.
• Located near Queen Street Station and George Square, Carlton George Hotel has a rooftop restaurant.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• At the Buchanan Galleries shopping complex and a few steps off Sauchiehall Street, Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre Buchanan Galleries Hotel has good city views from upper floor rooms.
• In the same neighborhood, citizenM Glasgow has small but cleverly decorated modern rooms with mood lighting.
• Featuring city views and luxury amenities, Apex City of Glasgow Hotel is a block from Sauchiehall Street and a short walk from George Square.

Budget Hotels:

• Just off George Square and a few steps from Queen Street Station, The Z Hotel Glasgow offers guests a free cheese buffet in the evening.
• At the west end of Sauchiehall Street, about a 15-minute walk from the shopping district, Argyll Hotel is in a smart neighborhood opposite Kelvingrove Museum and near the university and Glasgow Botanic Gardens.
• With free parking, Premier Inn Glasgow Pacific Quay Hotel stands beside the River Clyde, opposite the exhibition center, a one-minute walk to the Glasgow Science Centre.

Some of Scotland's top attractions can be easily explored on day trips from Glasgow . One of the most famous sites in all Scotland, Loch Lomond is a short train ride from the city. From here, you can take one of Europe's most beautiful train rides, from Balloch to Oban , gateway to the Isle of Skye and the Hebrides . Southwest of Glasgow are lovely Ayrshire and Dumfriesshire , where you can follow a trail of attractions connected to poet Robbie Burns. The elegant city of Edinburgh is a train-ride away to the east, crowned by the impressive Edinburgh Castle .

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