Scotland

Scotland holds a rich heritage as the homeland of resilient warriors, vibrant arts and cultural celebrations, and the birthplace of golf. Take on a journey through the mystical and ancient rugged landscapes, spanning from the majestic Ben Nevis, the UK's tallest peak, to the multitude of islands dotting the coastline. The country is home to over 2000 castles, including the Eilean Donan Castle near the Isle of Skye, the royal Balmoral Castle, and the grand Edinburgh Castle.

Scotland is a wonderful destination for those traveling with children, and there are many family-friendly tour options, from castles and Highland warrior battlefields to Harry Potter inspiration and Loch Ness Monster-spotting. Larger cities have many museums and monuments and most castles or historic sites will have hands-on children experiences.

The vibrant Scottish capital of Edinburgh provides visitors with a transition from the medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town to the modern architecture of its contemporary buildings. Experience gourmet dining, charming pubs, stylish cocktail bars, top-notch galleries, and a thriving arts community.

Begin with a walking tour of Old Town starting at the Castle Esplanade for the best view of the city. Then head down the Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. En route, explore the shops, pubs, and alleyways that lead off the Royal Mile.

The top section of the Royal Mile is known as Castlehill, and the location of Edinburgh Castle where you can stop and learn about the significance of this magnificent structure. From here you can also enjoy stunning views of the city.

Other Highlights Include:

St. Giles' Cathedral

Victoria Street

The National Museum of Scotland

Princess Street

The Scott Monument

Cadenhead

St.Stephen Street

Dundas Street

The Scottish Gallery

Take a stroll through the alleyways of Mary King's Close and discover the history of the Black Death, a deadly disease that wiped out a third of the population during that period.

Explore a guided walking tour that showcases sites that inspired scenes in Harry Potter, like the charming Victoria Street, believed to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley.

The Scotch Whisky Experience sits at the top of Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile, right next door to Edinburgh Castle. There are different types of tours to choose from, with some offering whisky tastings to enjoy at the conclusion of the tour, as well as a regular bar and restaurant.

The Gold Tour gives the chance to view the collection and to learn about the production of the spirit from the comfort of a whisky barrel ride. All participants will become members of the Scotch Whisky Appreciation Society and, assisted by experienced guides, will compare and contrast four regional single malts whilst relaxing in the beautiful McIntyre Gallery. By the time you leave, you will be able to sip like a true connoisseur!

For the true whisky enthusiast, the Morning Masterclass allows an extended guided viewing of the whisky collection over coffee and shortbread. A fun sensory perception test then prepares for a comparative tasting of one blend, one single grain and two single malt whiskies, and the nosing of a new-make spirit.

Both experiences include a complimentary boxed crystal whisky tasting glass.

The Scotch Whisky Experience is also suitable for children; upon conclusion of the tour, children are offered Scotland’s national soft drink, Irn-Bru, for tasting.

Dean Village, located just a short distance from the city center, presents a charming stroll along Hawthornbank Lane next to the Water of Leith, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.

The Royal Yacht Britannia is a luxurious ship that once hosted the Royal family on their grand voyages around the world. Now permanently moored at Ocean Terminal in Leith just fifteen minutes from the city, is one of the top tourism destinations in the UK. Step aboard the ship, take a peek at the state apartments, and have tea on the royal deck.

Outside of the city, take a day trip to Rosslyn Chapel, famously featured in The Da Vinci Code.

You can also walk around Roslin Glen Country Park and visit Melrose Abbey.

For fans of the popular Outlander series, picture yourselves retracing the steps of Jamie and Claire alongside a local Scottish guide, exploring the actual filming locations in person. Journey to iconic spots featured in the hit series like Midhope Castle, Doune Castle, Blackness Castle, and Linlithgow Palace.

Just over an hour’s drive out of Edinburgh, are the magnificent equine sculptures known as The Kelpies. A half-hour guided walking tour explores the vision of artist Andy Scott and demonstrates how his 30 metre high designs were inspired by the history and industry of the region.

St. Andrews, Scotland’s world-famous Home of Golf, is known for its historic university, medieval streets and gorgeous traditional buildings. Located on the east coast and within half an hour drive from Dundee and less than two hours from Edinburgh and Glasgow, the town is filled with exciting things to see and do, from St Andrews Cathedral to nearby Scotland’s Secret Bunker.

Golf, Old Course at St.Andrews, Scotland

The ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, once Scotland's largest and most remarkable church, offer a glimpse of its former grandeur. Within the museum lies an impressive collection of early and later medieval sculptures and artifacts discovered on the premises, including the magnificent St Andrews Sarcophagus dating back to the Pictish era.

St Rule's Tower, a component of the original church of the Augustinian canons at St Andrews, provides breathtaking views from its peak.

St Andrews Cathedral in St Andrews Scotland

Explore over 500 years of golfing history showcased at the R&A World Golf Museum. Immerse yourself in the unique golf heritage, located just a stone's throw away from the renowned Old Course. Browse through the shop offering official merchandise from The Open and other prestigious championships, along with a delightful array of gifts from Scottish designers and exclusive St Andrews souvenirs.

The Fife Coastal Path is around 111 miles and runs from Kincardine in Southern Fife all the way to Newburgh on the bank of the River Tay in the North. This path makes for a great opportunity to see different coastal views.

South of St Andrews, the charming stone harbors of the East Neuk fishing villages—Anstruther, Crail, St Monans, and Pittenweem—merit a visit as you explore this beautiful region of Fife.

Glasgow will instantly charm you with its stunning architecture, historical landmarks, friendly people, and trendy restaurants and bars.

Embark on a walking tour to explore the vibrant city divided into three main districts – the Financial district, Retail and Theater district, and Merchant City. Admire the splendid Glasgow City Chambers, stroll along the upscale Buchanan Street, and pass by the 19th-century Theater Royal, the Scottish Opera's home.

Explore the historic mercantile buildings around Merchant Square, now transformed into a trendy spot for eateries and bars. Spot the Tolbooth Steeple and clock tower, a legacy from 1625, towering over Glasgow Cross. Look out for the distinctive work of renowned architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, decorating various attractions in Glasgow. Visit The Lighthouse building, Mackintosh's inaugural creation, housing Scotland's Centre for Architecture & Design and the Mackintosh Interpretation Centre. Don't miss the chance to enjoy drinks with a view from the top after your visit.

Other highlights include:

Tennents Wellpark Brewery

King Tut's Wah Wah Hut, a venue known to have great music and up and coming bands.

Auchentoshan and Clydeside are two distilleries located near the city center, offering daily tours.

See the Celtic Park Stadium on a guided tour.

The Scottish Football Museum and Hampden Stadium Tour offers a fantastic day out for families, avid football fans, and anyone eager to gain knowledge of Scottish football.

Glasgow city skyline from Glasgow Green Park

Outside of Glasgow, explore Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, Glengoyne Distillery, Loch Lomond Distillery, and Stirling Castle.

Inverness is truly the heart and travel hub of the Scottish Highlands and, being so close to the mysterious and legendary Loch Ness, it has become an iconic global destination.

The Scottish Highlands have a reputation for some of the most spectacular roads to drive in the world. The North Coast 500, which starts and ends in Inverness, is a scenic route around the north coast, known as "the ultimate road trip".

Head to Urquhart Castle, on the loch's western shore, for panoramic views.

Visit Inverness Castle and the Castle Gallery.

See Fort George, home to one of Scotland's kilted battalions and the Regimental Museum of the Queen's Own Highlanders.

Visit The Old High Church, the city's oldest church, open to visitors on selected days or as part of a guided tour.

If you want to get a firsthand view of how The Macallan whisky is made, The Macallan Distillery offers plenty of options to do just that.

Inverness Scotland Landscape with buildings architecture Inverness Travel Scotland Concept

Visit the Leanach Cottage and see Highland Cows.

Head over to the Clava Cairns, an ancient cemetery.

Long exposure of Greig Street Bridge in Inverness, Scotland

Enjoy whisky at Tomatin Distillery and Speyside Distillery.

Outside of Inverness, you can travel through the landscapes of Speyside towards Dava Moor for some great views of the Cairngorms National Park.

See the forest village of Carrbridge and walk around the Old Packhorse Bridge.

Visit Glenmore Forest Park, where you can walk through the woods to Loch Morlich, which is one of Scotland's most scenic and popular lochs.

Travel through the charming town of Dunkeld and see the Dunkeld Cathedral.

Visit Dalmunzie Castle.

Visit Blair Castle and Blair Athol Distillery.

Visit Glamis Castle, the legendary setting of "Macbeth".

Take a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train. Made famous by the Harry Potter film franchise, the Jacobite is a steam locomotive-hauled tourist train service operating over part of the West Highland Line in Scotland. You will see ancient ruins, a war memorial, beautiful beaches, a hidden waterfall, and mountain backdrops.

The train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, and visits Fort Augustus where you can see the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness up close. You can also see the Falls of Foyers and Dores Beach.

With beautiful winding trails, charming villages, and fantastic cuisine, it's no surprise why people want to visit the Isle of Skye.

Highlight’s include:

Eilean Donan Castle

Elgol

Red and Black Cullin Hill’s

Dunvagen Castle

Neist Point

Armadale Castle

Glen Suardal

Bla Bhein

Loch Slappin

Here are some of our top picks for hiking in the area:

Fairy Pools: A short and easy walk, enjoy the views of the Fairy Pools along a relatively flat trail. Plan for one to two hours.
Fairy Glen: Another easy hike, this one-mile trail offers a unique and tranquil experience. Take your time and allow for an hour.
Old Man of Storr: A bit more challenging, but worth the effort for the iconic views of the Isle of Skye. The hike is just under three miles.
Rubha nam Brathairean (Brother's Point): A hidden gem, this easy hike has great views of the Brother's Point peninsula and Kilt Rock. The hike is a little over two miles.
Quiraing: For the adventurous, around a 4.5-mile hike along the Quiraing cliffs.
Bla Bheinn: This five-mile hike has 360° views of the Cuillins. Allow six hours for the hike.

Culinary

Haggis: Savory pudding which combines the cost-effective cuts from a sheep, along with oatmeal, onions, and spices. The result is a meaty, crumbly, moist, spicy, and filling “meatloaf-esque” meal often served with a side of “neeps and tatties” – mashed turnip and potatoes.

Shortbread: This incredibly addictive and melt-in-your-mouth cookie traditionally includes just three ingredients – flour, butter, and sugar. These are not just a staple of the holiday season; the simple sweet shortbread makes an excellent addition to any cup of tea.

Black pudding: In an effort to not waste anything in the slaughtering process, this sausage is made of pork blood, suet, barley, and oatmeal. These sausages are often sliced, fried, and served along with a traditional fry-up breakfast along with eggs, bacon, baked beans, and potato scones.

Cullen skink: A creamy potato and haddock stew.

Wild game and fish: A wild addition to the culinary offerings includes salmon, rabbit, venison, partridge, grouse, and pheasant.

Whisky: Perhaps the most synonymous export of Scotland is their whisky. It can only be called scotch if it was distilled in Scotland with malted barley by pot-still distillation, and left to age in oak casks for exactly three years and one day.

Single malt: A bit of a misnomer, a single malt is the result of a single distillery, as opposed to a single barrel. Therefore, a single malt may contain a mixture of several whiskies from many barrels produced from one distillery. A single barrel whisky, however, will come from one batch and one single cask of whisky.

Blended whisky: A master blender will develop a blend of spirits to develop a consistent flavor over several batches. Typically, a blend of at least two or more whiskies is tweaked and tailored with skill to develop something delicious, consistent, and greater than the sum of its parts. Some famous examples of blended whisky include Johnny Walker, Red Grouse, or Chivas Regal.

Train Travel

A Scottish railway journey is one of the best ways to take in the stunning landscapes. From scenic train routes through the Scottish Highlands to short steam train rides, Scotland's train tours can offer unforgettable journeys with great service and amazing views.

Edinburgh-Glasgow - 1 hour

Edinburgh-Manchester Piccadilly - 3 hours and 20 minutes

Glasgow-Birmingham New Street - 4 hours

Glasgow to Oban or Mallaig (West Highland Line) - 5 hours and 15 minutes

Inverness to Thurso or Wick - 4 hours and 30 minutes

Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh - 2 hours and 30 minutes

Edinburgh-London - 4 hours and 30 minutes

Glasgow-London - 4 hours and 30 minutes

Inverness-London - 8 hours

The West Highland Line is described as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. It runs from Glasgow up north to Crianlarich. One route then goes west past Loch Awe to Oban or continues north through Rannoch Moor to Fort William and Mallaig. Or you can do both!

This route is known to millions for taking Harry Potter from Platform 9¾ all the way to Hogwarts. As the train heads west, it passes over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct and offers breath-taking views of locations such as Loch Shiel, Loch Eilt and Ben Nevis, many of which can also be seen in the films.

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure on a luxury train in Scotland, then hop aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman. This ultra-exclusive train offers fine-dining and 5-star hospitality as guests are taken around the country, stopping off along the way for experiences and excursions. The journey ranges from 2-7 nights and begins in Edinburgh.

Scottish weather is moderate and very changeable – as the locals will say, “if you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes.” With consistent change in weather from sun to wind and rain, a rain jacket is infinitely more valuable than an umbrella.

March, April, and May

A beautiful time to visit, flowers are bursting into bloom, wildlife is out, and a milder breeze in the air, and there's plenty of activities to enjoy.

June, July, and August

The warmest months in Scotland, peak season, higher pricing, longer days.

September to November

Autumn colors, slow season, lower pricing.

December, January, and February

The coldest months, some snowfall.