Summary of Best Places to Visit in Scotland:
Some of the most notable destinations in Scotland will be instantly recognizable to anyone who has ever looked at a whisky label or shortbread tin. Think dramatic peaks, solitary glens, lochs, tartan, and haggis!
From the stunning Isle of Skye and historic Edinburgh to the meandering rivers of Speyside, Scotland’s iconic sites are as magnificent as one might expect. However, by delving deeper into this proud nation, one soon discovers a diverse and captivating landscape, enriched with prehistoric villages, vibrant nightlife, delectable seafood, and ancient abbeys.
So, where to begin? Once you have determined the most suitable time for your visit, it is essential to outline the best places to explore during your stay. Below is our selection of premier destinations in Scotland to commence your journey.
1. Edinburgh
Optimal location for year-round entertainment
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is renowned for its festivals; however, the city offers much more. Edinburgh embodies a spectrum of atmospheres: during spring, the Old Town is set against a brilliant blue sky accentuated by vibrant daffodils, while a frigid winter day brings fog entwined with the spires of the Royal Mile, rain-soaked cobblestones, and the inviting warmth from local pubs. With a world-class modern art gallery, excellent museums, haunting historic sites, and an impressive 12th-century castle, there is an abundance of activities to engage in throughout the year.
Insider advice: Commence your exploration of Edinburgh with a hike up Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that offers panoramic views of the city.
2. West Highland Way
Premier destination for long-distance hiking
The most effective way to truly experience Scotland’s landscapes is through walking. Here, steep peaks tower over lochs, while rugged sea cliffs overlook the tumultuous sea; however, there are also shorter woodland pathways and delightful routes through valleys adorned with purple heather. A primary goal for many hikers is the 96-mile West Highland Way, commencing in Milngavie (near Glasgow) and concluding in Fort William, which offers a week-long trek through some of the country’s most stunning scenery, culminating in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest peak.
If you do not have the time or physical stamina for an extensive hike, various sections of the trail can be traversed in a single day. As an example, the segment from Rowardennan to Inversnaid can be completed, with return transport to your starting point via the Loch Lomond waterbus. Regardless of the section you opt for, be sure to pack waterproof clothing and midge repellent. Additionally, railway enthusiasts should be aware that sleeper trains operate from Fort William to London, facilitating an easy departure after your hike.
Additional route: The summit of Ben Nevis (1,345m or 4,413ft) is attainable for anyone with moderate fitness; respect the peak, and your reward (provided the weather cooperates) will be breathtaking views extending to Northern Ireland.
3. North Coast 500
Ideal for a scenic road trip
Stunning vistas are abundant in the Highlands, yet the northern region offers a truly awe-inspiring experience. This area presents the quintessential opportunity in Scotland to explore by vehicle (cycling is also an option), featuring some of the most breathtaking roadside landscapes in Europe.
The North Coast 500 begins and concludes in the charming city of Inverness, encompassing the lochs, sandy beaches, and golfing areas of the eastern shore, before proceeding to the isolated cliffs and coastline of Cape Wrath, the rugged peaks of Assynt, and the stark beauty of Torridon. These attractions, coupled with the warm Highland hospitality found in classic rural bars and historic crofting villages, make for an unforgettable week-long journey.
4. Isle of Skye
Best locale for photographers
In a nation recognized for its breathtaking landscapes, the Isle of Skye truly stands out. From the rugged summits of the Cuillin mountains to the unusual formations of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing to the majestic cliffs of Neist Point, a photo opportunity awaits nearly every corner.
Skye is also among the premier destinations in Scotland for spotting golden eagles and offers lively pubs and exceptional seafood eateries should you manage to divert your gaze from the natural wonders around you. Nevertheless, this widespread tourist attraction makes Skye one of the busiest locales in Scotland. Most crowds are concentrated in Portree, Dunvegan, and Trotternish; it is often possible to discover tranquility in the island’s more secluded regions.
Preparation tip: Be ready for unpredictable weather—when conditions are favorable, it is exceptionally beautiful, but it can just as easily be uninviting.
5. Loch Lomond
Optimal destination for lakeside hiking
Despite being under an hour’s drive from the bustling city of Glasgow, the beautiful braes (banks) of Loch Lomond—immortalized in one of Scotland’s most beloved songs—encompass some of the most picturesque regions in the country.
Located at the center of Scotland’s first national park, the loch begins as a broad, island-dotted lake in the southern region, adorned with bluebell-sprinkled woods, and narrows in the northern sections to a fjord-like channel flanked by mountains.
Additional route: The summit of Ben Lomond (974m or 3,031ft) is a popular hiking destination—follow the well-maintained Tourist Route for a 7-mile round trip (allow roughly 5 hours).
6. Glasgow
Prime location for live music and pub culture
Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, may not possess the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh; however, it compensates with an abundance of activities and a warmth that leaves visitors with lasting impressions. Edgy and vibrant, Glasgow serves as an excellent venue for exploring art galleries and museums, as well as discovering the works of local design icon Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
The city’s vibrant spirit is best experienced through its bustling pubs and clubs, which host one of the world’s most acclaimed live music scenes.
Insider advice: Inquire about upcoming performances (primarily alt-rock) at the Barrowland (voted 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 venue.
7. Stirling
Ideal for castle enthusiasts
Standing firmly atop a fortified wooded crag—a remnant of an extinct volcano—Stirling boasts a beautifully conserved Old Town filled with historic architecture and cobblestone streets leading to the formidable Stirling Castle. This fortress has witnessed significant historical confrontations; it was besieged by the Warwolf, a massive 14th-century English siege machine, and during the 1745 Jacobite uprising, while also dispatching troops to the battle of Bannockburn (the decisive battle celebrated in the film Braveheart), located just south.
Today, sweeping views extending to the Highlands, splendid tapestries, and rich history render this Scotland’s premier castle—a remarkable family attraction as well.
Preparation tip: Visiting in the afternoon is advisable; since many tourists arrive on day trips, you may have the castle almost to yourself by 4pm.
8. St Andrews
Ideal destination for golfers
Scotland is recognized as the birthplace of golf, and the city of St Andrews continues to be celebrated as its spiritual hub, cherished by both novices and professionals. The links courses here provide the quintessential golfing experience—bumpy coastal challenges where heather and machair (coastal grass) dominate, with the wind serving as a formidable adversary.
This historic university town is golf’s headquarters and is an irresistible destination for any golf enthusiast. For those less inclined to the sport, the city also boasts remarkable medieval ruins, impressive university buildings, idyllic sandy beaches, and excellent guesthouses and restaurants.
9. Skara Brae
Ideal location for enthusiasts of ancient history
When exploring ancient sites, it can sometimes be challenging to connect through the passage of time or establish a rapport with their creators. Yet, Scotland’s exceptional prehistoric remains make an immediate impression. Few places provide a more insightful view into everyday Stone Age existence than Skara Brae in Orkney, showcasing intricately constructed fireplaces, sleeping areas, cupboards, and water storage systems.
This Neolithic village—dating back 5,000 years, predating both Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Giza—was concealed beneath coastal sand dunes for millennia. Even today, it gives the impression that the inhabitants have just stepped out for fishing, poised to return at any moment.
10. Glen Coe
Best locale for clan history
Scotland’s most renowned glen encapsulates two quintessential elements of the Highlands: majestic landscapes and a profound historical narrative. The tranquility and beauty of this valley today stand in stark contrast to the brutal events of the 17th-century massacre, during which the local MacDonalds were slain by Campbell clan soldiers.
Some of the glen’s most picturesque hikes—such as to the Lost Valley—traverse the paths once taken by fleeing clansfolk, many of whom succumbed to the snow.
Preparation tip: Begin at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for further insights into this enchanting region and its poignant history.
11. Perthshire
Optimal locale to appreciate nature’s offerings
In Perthshire, the heart of Scotland, charming towns blossom with flowers, distilleries release alluring malty aromas, and sheep graze in impossibly verdant meadows. There’s a unique ambiance of natural abundance that few places in Scotland can mimic.
Blue-gray lochs sparkle, mirroring the shifting atmosphere, while centuries-old trees rise within riverside woodlands; majestic glens carve their way into unspoiled wilderness, and salmon return upstream to their spawning grounds.
12. Shetland Islands
Premier destination for birdwatching
Situated close enough to Norway that Scottish nationality may seem ambiguous, the Shetland Islands represent Britain’s most northern territory. The hauntingly stark landscape—designated as a treasured UNESCO geopark—exudes a distinctly Scottish essence, featuring deep, bare valleys bordered by steep hills, shimmering blue lochs, and, of course, grazing sheep along the lightly trafficked roads. However, it is the avian population that particularly attracts visitors to this area.
From their initial arrival in late spring to the raucous feeding frenzies of summer, the vast colonies of gannets, guillemots, skuas, puffins, and kittiwakes at Hermaness, Noss, Sumburgh Head, and Fair Isle offer some of Britain’s most outstanding birdwatching opportunities.
Insider advice: Shetland ranks among the best locations in the UK for viewing orcas (as well as the Northern Lights).
13. Speyside
Optimal location for whisky tasting
Scotland’s national spirit is whisky—from the Gaelic term uisge beatha, meaning “water of life”—and this spirited beverage has been produced here for over five centuries. With more than 50 distilleries currently operational, Speyside is Scotland’s most renowned whisky-producing region, celebrated for its fruity, subtly spicy flavors (travel to Islay for peatier varieties).
Inquire at the Whisky Museum about the Malt Whisky Trail, a self-guided tour through local distilleries. If time permits only a single visit, the Balvenie Distillery is an excellent option, as it continues to operate a traditional malting floor—with an enticing aroma!
Preparation tip: Dufftown lies at the core of the region and hosts the biannual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.
14. The Scotland Borders
Optimal region for countryside exploration
Many Scotland visitors rush straight to Edinburgh before making their way to the Highlands, overlooking the Scottish Borders entirely. This is a missed opportunity. Once contested by warlords and cattle raiders, the Borders region is steeped in rich history and features numerous excellent cycling and hiking paths.
There are grand estates to explore—Traquair House produces Jacobite Ale and has a hidden chamber that once hosted Catholic priests—and a series of breathtaking ruined abbeys, with Gothic Melrose Abbey being the most remarkable. Furthermore, birdwatchers and those interested in coastal cliffs can explore St Abb’s Head. More adventurous visitors can fish for salmon or navigate the thrilling mountain biking trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.
