Scotland

Scotland’s Best Cities

Essential Scotland

OUR FAVORITE Scotland OVERNIGHTS

Edinburgh

• Linton Collection: Black Friars Lofts

Glasgow

• Native Glasgow (George Square)
• Glasgow Grosvenor Hotel (West End)

Isle of Skye

• Braken Hide Hotel (Portree)

Oban/Glencoe

• West Ferlochan Self-Catering Cottage (it’s on a Highland Cow farm!)

Search for the perfect Scotland hotel or vacation rental for your vacation

Scotland’S BEST TOURS AND ATTRACTIONS

Scotland with Kids

• How to Survive a 5-Day Itinerary in Scotland with Kids
• 10-Day Scottish City, Island and Highlands Itinerary with Scotland with Kids
• Where to Eat, Stay and PLay When Hiking Through Glencoe Scotland with Kids
• How to Hike Through Glencoe Scotland with Kids

Harry Potter in Scotland

• Trailing Harry Potter in Scotland to Discover JK Rowlings Edinburgh
• How to see the Hogwarts Express in Glenfinnan

Scotland FAQ

Where is Scotland located?

Scotland is located in the northern part of the United Kingdom (UK) and shares a land border with England to the south.

What is the capital city of Scotland?

The capital city of Scotland is Edinburgh.

What is the official language of Scotland?

The official languages of Scotland are English and Scottish Gaelic.

What is the currency used in Scotland?

The currency used in Scotland is the British pound sterling.

What are some famous landmarks in Scotland?

Some famous landmarks in Scotland include Edinburgh Castle, Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye, and the Scottish Highlands.

What is the weather like in Scotland?

The weather in Scotland is generally cool and rainy, with temperatures ranging from 0-15°C (32-59°F) in the winter and 10-20°C (50-68°F) in the summer.

What is Scotland known for?

Scotland is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, Scotch whisky, bagpipes, kilts, haggis, and famous authors such as Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns.

What side of the road do they drive on in Scotland?

In Scotland, they drive on the left. The driver’s side of the car is on the right, which can be confusing for Americans traveling to Scotland. I promise- you can do it.

Just get an automatic car, not a manual, because shifting on the left is disorienting, especially since the clutch, gas and brake pedals are in the same order as cars designed to drive on the right.

What is the traditional dress of Scotland?

The traditional dress of Scotland is the kilt, which is a knee-length skirt made from tartan fabric. Other traditional Scottish clothing includes the sporran (a type of pouch worn around the waist), the sgian-dubh (a small knife worn in the sock), and the ghillie brogues (a type of shoe with laces that wrap around the ankle).

What are some traditional Scottish foods?

Some traditional Scottish foods include haggis (a type of savory pudding made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs), neeps and tatties (mashed turnips and potatoes), Cullen skink (a type of soup made from smoked haddock), and cranachan (a dessert made from whipped cream, raspberries, oats, and honey).

What is the Scottish flag?

The Scottish flag, also known as the Saltire, is a blue background with a white diagonal cross. It represents Saint Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland.

What is the national animal of Scotland? The national animal of Scotland is the unicorn, which is a mythical creature that has been associated with Scotland for centuries.

what is the best way to travel within scotland?

Car

Renting a car is a popular way to travel around Scotland, as it gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and visit remote areas that might not be accessible by public transport. Scotland has a good road network, although some of the roads can be narrow and winding, especially in rural areas. Keep in mind that in Scotland, driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

Train

Scotland has a good train network that connects most major cities and towns. Trains are generally comfortable and reliable, and they offer scenic views of the countryside. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season or for long-distance journeys.

Bus

Buses are a cheaper alternative to trains and can be a good option for shorter journeys or for getting around smaller towns and villages. There are several bus companies operating in Scotland, with frequent services between major cities and towns.

Bicycle

Cycling is a popular way to explore Scotland, especially in the countryside and along the many cycle routes that are available. You can rent a bike from several rental companies or bring your own.

Walking

Walking is another popular way to explore Scotland, especially in the many national parks and scenic areas. There are several long-distance hiking trails, such as the West Highland Way and the Great Glen Way, as well as shorter walks and hikes for all abilities.

what time of year is best to visit scotland?

Weather: Scotland has a mild, oceanic climate, which means that temperatures are generally cool and damp throughout the year. The summer months (June to August) are the warmest and driest, with average temperatures ranging from 15-20°C (59-68°F). However, the weather can be unpredictable, and you should be prepared for rain and wind at any time of year.

Crowds

The summer months are the busiest time of year in Scotland, with peak season running from July to August. This is when schools are on summer break, and many tourists visit Scotland for festivals and events. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (April to June, September to October), when the weather is still mild, and there are fewer tourists.

Festivals and Events

Scotland has many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival (August), the Highland Games (May to September), and the Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) celebrations. If you’re interested in attending one of these events, be sure to check the dates and plan your trip accordingly.

Outdoor Activities

Scotland is known for its stunning natural scenery, and the best time to explore the outdoors depends on what activities you’re interested in. The summer months are ideal for hiking, cycling, and water sports, while the winter months (December to February) are perfect for skiing and snowboarding in the Scottish Highlands.

where to visit in scotland with family

Scotland has many attractions that are perfect for families, whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or fun activities for kids. Here are some top destinations in Scotland that are great for families:

1. Edinburgh Castle: This iconic castle perched on a hilltop in the heart of Edinburgh is a must-see attraction for families. You can explore the castle’s fascinating history, see the Scottish Crown Jewels, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
2. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park: This stunning national park is home to some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery, including Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater loch in Scotland. Families can enjoy hiking, cycling, water sports, and wildlife spotting.
3. Dynamic Earth: This interactive museum in Edinburgh is a great place for families to learn about the Earth’s history and geology through fun and interactive exhibits.
4. Highland Wildlife Park: This wildlife park in the Scottish Highlands is home to a range of animals, including wolves, polar bears, and red pandas. Families can take a drive-through safari, see animal talks and shows, and learn about conservation efforts.
5. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: This museum in Glasgow is a great place for families to explore art and culture. It’s home to a wide range of exhibits, including art, artifacts, and natural history specimens.
6. St Andrews: This historic university town on the east coast of Scotland is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities for all ages. You can visit the famous St Andrews Cathedral and Castle, enjoy a round of mini-golf, or explore the beautiful beaches.

where to visit in scotland highlands

The Scottish Highlands are a stunning and rugged region that’s full of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. Here are some of the top places to visit in the Scottish Highlands:

1. Loch Ness: This famous loch is the home of the legendary Loch Ness Monster, and it’s also surrounded by beautiful scenery, including forests, mountains, and waterfalls.
2. Isle of Skye: The Isle of Skye is one of the most popular destinations in the Scottish Highlands, and it’s easy to see why. It’s home to some of Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes, including the Cuillin Mountains, the Old Man of Storr, and the Fairy Pools.
3. Glencoe: This valley in the Highlands is famous for its stunning scenery, including towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and rugged rock formations. It’s also the site of a historic massacre that took place in 1692.
4. Cairngorms National Park: This vast park covers over 4,500 square kilometers and is home to some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery, including mountains, forests, and lochs. It’s also a great place to see wildlife, including red deer, golden eagles, and otters.
5. Culloden Battlefield: This historic site is the location of the Battle of Culloden, which took place in 1746 and was the final battle of the Jacobite rising. Visitors can explore the battlefield, learn about the history of the conflict, and visit the nearby Clava Cairns, a group of ancient burial cairns.
6. Fort William: This town at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s home to a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and snowboarding. It’s also SUPER close to the Harry Potter train!

where to go in scotland for a weekend

Weekend getaways are the perfect way to explore Scotland in small chunks, if you have the time. Spend a weekend in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness, on the Isle of Skye, do some hiking in Glencoe, or even pop over to the Isle of Mull to wander around the town of Tobermory (I swear I had the best scone of my life there!).

where to visit in scotland outlander

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and features prominently in the Outlander series. The Royal Mile and the Palace of Holyroodhouse are both featured in the series, as well as several other locations around the city.

Doune Castle

Doune Castle, located in Stirling, was used as a filming location for Castle Leoch in the first season of Outlander. Visitors can take a tour of the castle and learn more about its history and its use in the series.

Culloden Battlefield

The Battle of Culloden is a significant event in Scottish history and is also a major plot point in the Outlander series. The Culloden Battlefield is located near Inverness and visitors can learn more about the battle and its aftermath at the visitor center.

Glasgow

Glasgow is another Scottish city that features in the Outlander series. The city was used as a filming location for some scenes set in Paris in season two.

Culross

Culross is a small village located in Fife that was used as a filming location for the town of Cranesmuir in the series. Visitors can take a tour of the village and see the buildings and streets that were used in the series.

Falkland

Falkland is another village located in Fife that was used as a filming location for the town of Inverness in the series. Visitors can see the Bruce Fountain, which was used in a scene in the series, as well as several other filming locations around the village.

where to visit in scotland by train?

Scotland has a great rail network, with many scenic routes that are perfect for exploring the country by train. Here are some of the best places to visit in Scotland by train:

1. Edinburgh: Scotland’s capital city is a must-visit destination, with its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. The train journey from Glasgow to Edinburgh takes just over an hour, and trains run frequently throughout the day.
2. Glasgow: Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city and a hub for arts and culture. It’s home to many museums, galleries, and music venues, as well as stunning architecture and a lively dining scene. Trains from Edinburgh to Glasgow run every 15 minutes, and the journey takes around 45 minutes.
3. The West Highland Line: The West Highland Line is one of Scotland’s most scenic train routes, taking passengers through the Scottish Highlands and offering stunning views of lochs, mountains, and forests. The line runs from Glasgow to Mallaig, with stops at Fort William, Glenfinnan, and other scenic locations along the way.
4. Inverness: Inverness is the capital of the Scottish Highlands and a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside. The train journey from Edinburgh to Inverness takes around 3.5 hours, with stunning views of the Cairngorms and other scenic areas along the way.
5. Stirling: Stirling is a historic city that played a key role in Scotland’s fight for independence. It’s home to Stirling Castle, the Wallace Monument, and other historic sites, as well as beautiful parks and gardens. Trains from Edinburgh to Stirling run every 15-30 minutes, with the journey taking around 45 minutes.
6. Aberdeen: Known as the “Granite City” due to its stunning architecture, Aberdeen is a popular destination for visitors to Scotland. It can be reached by train from Edinburgh and Glasgow, as well as other cities in the UK.
7. Fort William: Located at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, Fort William is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s accessible by train on the West Highland Line, which offers stunning views of the Scottish Highlands.

who gets free bus travel in scotland?

Children aged 5-21 years who live in Scotland.

is travel to scotland safe?

Scotland is generally a safe country to travel to, with low crime rates and a stable political environment.

is it expensive to travel in scotland?

It can be, depending on the exchange rate of the UK pound when you visit. In general, prices are similar to the U.S.A. though. You can save money on a trip to Scotland by traveling in the off season, staying at a hostel or budget hotel, and walking or biking instead of renting a car. You can also price out train tickets to see if your itinerary would be cheaper by train or renting a car to get to the places you want to go.

can dogs travel on buses in scotland?

In general, yes, but they must be on a lead or in a pet carrier.

can dogs travel on trains in scotland?

In general, yes, but they must be on a lead or in a pet carrier, and can be refused at the operators desecration.