Scotland packs a lot into its compact territory, from the towering mountains and heather-dappled moors of the Highlands to the pristine beaches of the west coast and romantic ruins of the Borders. Scotland’s tumultuous history has made it a complex, captivating country that defies the tartan- and whisky-fueled stereotypes for which it is best known. It’s also a dynamic, forward-looking country—that remains part of the United Kingdom—as evidenced by the exciting cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh. From exploring ancient castles to sampling fresh-off-the-boat seafood, there’s no end of things to do in Scotland.
Few visit Scotland for its weather. It’s an unavoidable truth that Scotland is most often wet and cool. You can hope for the most pleasant conditions from May through September, but you should always be prepared for climatic variations—even in a single day. Summer is also the busy season and can bring large crowds to major attractions, particularly Edinburgh for the August festivals and the Isle of Skye. Dodge crowds by visiting in May or September.
Also, the Highland games season begins in May, peaks in July and August, and comes to a close toward the end of September, with most events taking place on the weekends. Enjoying the yearly festivities is one of the most popular things to do in Scotland for both visitors and locals.
Scotland’s extensive public transportation network makes getting around by bus, train, and ferry a breeze. Services tend to become scarcer and slower the more rural you travel, so it’s a good idea to have your own wheels or book a tour when heading to more remote areas. Driving in Scotland does require skill and patience as much of the country is connected by small, single-track roads.
Scottish food has a poor reputation, but open-minded travelers may be pleasantly surprised by the breadth of the country’s cuisine. Avoid tourist traps whenever possible and make it a point to dine in locally owned restaurants that serve locally sourced produce. Foodie highlights include seafood fresh off the boat, wild game straight from the moors, and gin enhanced with local botanicals such as kelp and heather.
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Scotland is a land of instantly recognizable images (or clichés, depending on your opinion): tartan, bagpipes, haggis, mist-shrouded mountains, heather-clad hills, and haunting valleys. The small country has an outsized cultural reputation and has produced some of the world’s best literature, music, and art.
...MoreMany visitors make the mistake of sticking to Edinburgh and its surroundings. You shouldn’t miss the chance to get out into the countryside—easily done in a small country. The Scottish Highlands are within easy reach from the capital and home to some of Scotland’s most majestic landscapes.
...MoreTen days is enough time to tick off many key things to do in Scotland. You can see all of the highlights of Edinburgh and Glasgow, explore the highlights of the Highlands (including Glencoe and Loch Ness), and add on a visit to an island, such as Isle of Arran, Isle of Islay, or Mull.
...MoreScottish food has an unfair and outdated reputation. The country boasts farm-to-table fare featuring world-class ingredients, from fresh seafood to wild game. Make sure to try Scottish salmon, local cheeses, and grouse, as well as distinctively Scottish dishes like cullen skink (a hearty fish soup), black pudding, and, yes, haggis.
...MoreYou shouldn’t miss Edinburgh, the jewel in Scotland’s crown and home to its top attractions including Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. But don’t sleep on Glasgow. Scotland’s grittier and inarguably friendlier city is less shaped by tourism, offering an earthier and perhaps more authentic view of Scotland.
...MoreRent a car if you can. Public transportation is extensive but train and bus timetables are not always convenient when traveling to more remote parts of the country. Alternatively, book guided tours and let someone else tackle driving on narrow country roads.
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