scotland tour vacation

Scotland Tours & Trips

• Scotland 7 day
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• Scotland 10 day
• Scotland Family

217 Scotland tour packages with 7,427 reviews

5 Day Skye & Highland Fling

This was the best tour I have ever been on. We had Neil as our tour guide, he told funny stories and Scottish history and I loved every minute of it! Went to beautiful amazing places that I’ll definitely be coming back for again! Would highly recommend for anyone wanting to get a taste of Scotland!

• Coach / Bus

3 Day Loch Ness & Skye

If you have limited time to explore Scotland and love the adventure and good vibes of backpacking, I 100% recommend traveling with MacBackpackers. I opted for the 3-day tour, and the experience exceeded all my expectations. The accommodations were cozy, with exceptional staff who organize unforgettable activities. The transportation was also very comfortable, punctual, and safe. I want to give a special thanks to Branka, our tour guide, who was amazing. Not only for her charisma and the passion she puts into her work but also for providing quality, entertaining content and making you feel Scotland like a local. I recommend it 100%! --------- Si dispones de poco tiempo para explorar Escocia y te encanta la aventura y la buena onda de los viajes mochileros, te recomiendo al 100% que viajes con MacBackpackers. Opté por el tour de 3 días y la experiencia superó todas mis expectativas. Los lugares para descansar son acogedores, con un personal excepcional que organiza actividades inolvidables. El transporte también fue muy cómodo, puntual y seguro. Quiero agradecer especialmente a Branka, nuestra guía turística, que fue increíble. No solo por su carisma y la pasión que pone en su trabajo, sino también por ofrecer un contenido de calidad, entretenido y hacerte sentir Escocia como un local. ¡Lo recomiendo al 100%!

• In-depth Cultural

Scottish Dream - 8 Days/7 Nights

Great itinerary! Hotels were good but the evening meals were poor. I won’t do a bus tour again with this company because of the seating policy! I had a problem with motion sickness and asked to be seated at the front of the bus. Yes, I took medicine but it didn’t help! Thus I had to ride with my eyes closed the whole tour.

Bonnie Scotland

Good bus driver good commentary hotels comfortable

Country Roads of Scotland (Classic, 9 Days)

This is a great tour for people who have not visited Scotland before and want a good overview of the whole country. It has a fast but comfortable pace, allowing us to experience both large and small cities, and many historical sites along the way. We took all of the optional excursions, but a person could also have a good experience by doing some exploring on their own. Our tour included tickets to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, an amazing performance by both military and civilian performers. It was a real high point of the trip! We are already thinking about a return trip to beautiful Scotland, and based on what we learned from this trip there are several places we would like to focus on in greater depth. I highly recommend this tour.

Highlights of Scotland

This was my second G Adventures tour and it proved to be as enjoyable as the first one, which was the main reason my wife and I booked it. The small size of the tour group and the variety of people made it all the better. The tour offered a good balance between structured visits of major attractions and free time to explore on our own. I would not hesitate to recommend a G Adventures tour to anyone seeking a guided travel experience in the company of other like-minded travelers.

It was a good trip seeing a lot of Scotland and the tour guide was very good. However a few things to improve are: There were too many people in the group so didn't really interact with the rest of them and the language difference didn't help either as I didn't realise that most of them spoke Spanish so the guide had to say everything in 2 languages. There was confusion on the trip as in the main Itinerary, it only mentioned breakfast included but when you looked into individual days it said dinner included, so didn't match. I feel that at least 1 dinner would have been nice to help with interacting with the group. I was a bit disappointed that the distillery changed days instead of the 1st day as I would have liked a bit more time to see Edinburgh especially as it was nice that day. Also the day in Edinburgh shouldn't be on a Saturday as it was too busy. A few places I felt rushed like Fort William as we only had time to get out, see it a bit, have a hot drink and toilet and then go but to be honest there wasn't much there so could have gone anywhere really. It was nice to see the castles except it would have good if Edinburgh castle had been included, but also maybe see something else for a variety like a mine or cave, or we did pass a cable car and that would have been nice. But overall it was a nice trip seeing places around Scotland in the time.

Looking for tours beyond just Scotland?

Explore tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Scotland.

Scotland's Orkney Islands

Fabulous holiday with lovely walks boat trips and visits to historic places. Also swam at a beautiful beach (with a wet suit). Our guide was knowledgeable and flexible and the group got on really well. Highly recommend this trip.

Isle of Skye & Outer Hebrides

I would have liked to stop at glencoe to walk around for a couple of hours. The tour was fast paced allowing us to see many things in a short period of time

• $100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

2-day Outlander Tour (Small Group)

Alles in allem, top. TourGuide war sehr nett. Auch wenn ich nicht alles verstanden habe, war die Tour ein voller Erfolg. Auch das B&B Hotel, mitsamt Frühstück, war schön und reichlich. Ich würde gerne nochmal eine Tour in Zukunft machen.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Scottish Royal

The tour guide, Linda, was great as was the coach driver, Mike. The coach was very comfortable and the sites we visited were great. The tour was well organized and well executed. The meals were very good as well. The only thing making this “good” and not “excellent” is that I had to sleep on a pullout couch for three nights of the tour which much surprised me for something billed as a first class tour. So if you plan to go three to a room, be prepared for someone to be on a couch.

• Sightseeing

Taste of Scotland - 5 Days/4 Nights

Excellent! CIE service and organisation was A+++. (Special shoutout to Paul our driver) Hotels and meals all highest quality. Only downer : Sound quality on bus was poor. Admittedly very many participants might be hearing-challenged. However, tour company should be expected to allow for this considering the clientele. The guides were interesting, but I would have loved to hear the details ....( and the jokes!)

Premium Scotland

Classic Scotland Self Drive

An excellent tour. Excellent hotels and average B&Bs. We did not know that a couple of places were going to have the hotels substituted for B&Bs, The B&B in Inverness was average (although the hosts were lovely people). The Edinburgh B&B was an interesting house, but there was no parking there, so had to park in a car park 20 mins walk away at extra costs (although this was the discounted rate offered by the B&B).

Orkney & The Far North

Perfect tour,guide.accomodation,meals.

What people love about Scotland Tours

4th tour with this company (but they have become family). Not a photo stop/on and off the bus tour. Macbackpackers let’s you explore Scotland and really soak it in. Whether it’s spending a few hours at Glencoe to see who can hike to the top, or having a drink at a gorgeous viewpoint, there is no feeling rushed or that you have missed out. If anything, you get the opportunity to get off the beaten track and see hidden gems that only the locals would know of and give a more authentic Scottish experience!

Me and my friend took the 3 day Isle of Skye tour and it exceeded all our expectations. We were lucky to have sunny weather and see the aurora lights but more than that we got really lucky with our tour guide Branka. She had such a positive energy, there was no problem she wouldn’t be able to solve and she had an interesting story to tell about all locations we went to ( plus the whole playlist of music we listen was carefully selected just for the trip). I wouldn’t usually go for a bus tour while on holiday but this one exceeded all my expectations. It’s a great way to see Scotland and learn about the history and culture. Thank you Branka, you’re the best :-) I’ll definitely join your tour again when I’m in Scotland.

The whole tour was fantastic! Our guide Di and driver Adrian were outstanding. The excursions were top notch. The hotels were very good with full Scottish breakfasts every morning. The included evening meals were just fair. Overall CIE did a A+ tour. Would go with them again.

Scotland Destinations

• Northern Scotland (49)
• Northeast Scotland (6)
• Scottish Highlands (38)
• Isle Of Skye (24)
• Orkney Islands (6)
• The Hebrides (6)
• Cairngorms National Park (6)

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Let Scotland's lochs and highlands enchant you

There's a reason a unicorn is the symbol of Scotland—it's a land of pure magic. Travel there with CIE Tours to discover every enchanting vista, from the heather-covered Highlands to the depths of Loch Ness. Explore the rich Scottish culture, beyond the traditions of tartan, whisky and bagpipes. Let us introduce you to the charms of Scotland.

With its medieval Old Town, chic Georgian New Town, and timeless views from Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh is truly the romantic heart of Scotland.

The Scottish capital's "Old Town" retains much of its medieval-era charm—and wandering the streets and exploring the shops is a popular thing to do in Edinburgh.

Military Tattoo

One of the most popular things to do in Edinburgh is this August event—a grand tradition that began after World War II, with drum and pipe corps from around the world performing.

• Edinburgh Castle

Walk in the footsteps of soldiers, kings and queens, and even the odd pirate or two at this unforgettable Scottish destination.

This medieval-era royal residence, military garrison, prison and fortress, is alive with many exciting tales.

• Isle of Skye

One of the largest of Scotland's 790 islands, Isle of Skye features colorful port towns and villages, and dramatic, stony landscapes.

• Dunvegan Castle

This medieval fortress rises up majestically from a promontory on the Isle of Skye.

Whisky Distillery

One of Scotland's most legendary creations is its fine Scotch whisky—and many CIE Tours of Scotland feature distillery tours where you can sample a dram or two and see how it's created.

A wild storm nearly two centuries ago unearthed this seaside Neolithic village of stone, dating to between 3200 and 2200 BC.

Scottish Highlands

The best time to catch the Highlands heather in full bloom is late August into September. But you can taste it year round in heather ale and Scottish honey—the bees often rely on heather pollen for their food source.

The Old Course at St Andrews is the very first golf course in the world, dating back to the 1400s.

• Stirling Castle

Scotland's grand castle played a key role in both Scottish and English history, and many of the most famous Scots, including Mary Queen of Scots and Robert Bruce, once dwelled within its walls.

• Iron Age House

The sea helped bring this nearly intact Pictish village to light, just 25 years ago.

Quaint Culross lets visitors step back in time to the 17th and 18th centuries for a taste of what life was like for its inhabitants. It's served as a backdrop for many scenes in the series Outlander.

• Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is the largest lake by area in all of Scotland, at more than 24 miles in length. You'll find Scotland's famous red deer and other wildlife along its shores.

Callanish Stones

These mysterious Neolithic "standing stones" in the Outer Hebrides may be older than Stonehenge.

The depths of this lovely Scottish lake contain more fresh water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined—and perhaps, if the legends are true, "Nessie," the Loch Ness Monster.

• Urquhart Castle

Some of Scotland's most stirring history has taken place at this magisterial fortress overlooking Loch Ness.

This historic climbing hut is an icon in black and white against the green hills of Glencoe.

Scotland Tours

• A La Carte B&B
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• Ireland - Custom Groups
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• 8 - 14 Days
• 3D Battle Show
• Abbey Tavern
• Achill Island
• Alnwick Castle
• Aran Islands
• Arigna Mining Centre
• Ashford Castle
• Ballachulish
• Ballinwillin House
• Ballycotton
• Ballyfarnon
• Ballyknocken Cookery School
• Bernese Oberland
• Black Forest
• Blakes of the Hollow Pub
• Blarney Castle
• Bristol Tour
• Brjansstadir
• Cambridge Punting
• Cambridge Tour
• Canterbury Cathedral
• Carlingford
• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
• Carrick-on-Shannon
• Causey Farm
• Celtic Whiskey Bar
• Charles Fort
• Chavenage House
• Chocolate-Making Experience
• Church Bar and Restaurant
• Cliffs of Moher
• Cobh Heritage Centre
• Connemara Celtic Crystal
• Cooking Competition
• Croke Park Stadium
• Cross Guns Gastropub
• Crosskeys Inn
• Culzean Castle
• Dalkey Castle
• Derrynane House
• Distillery Visit
• Down Cathedral
• Dromoland Castle
• Dublin Tour
• Dun Aengus Fort
• Dun Laoghaire
• Ely Cathedral
• Farm to Table Dinner
• Farmhouse Visit
• Florence Court House
• Gallarus Oratory
• Gedächtniskirche
• Glasgow Tour
• Glasnevin Museum
• Glastonbury Tor & Abbey
• Glenlo Abbey
• Glenveagh National Park
• GPO Witness History
• Grasmere Gingerbread Shop
• Hampton Court Palace
• Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Highland games
• Irish National Stud
• Irish Whiskey Museum
• Isle of Capri
• Jameson Experience
• John B. Keane's Pub
• Johnstown Castle
• Kilkenny Castle
• Kilronan Castle
• King John's Castle
• Kyle of Lochalsh
• Lake Distillery
• Leeds Castle
• Letterkenny
• Long Meadow Cider
• Lough Ree Viking Cruise
• Malahide Castle
• Mary Rose Museum
• Melrose Abbey
• Montecatini Terme
• Muckross House
• Muckross Schoolhouse
• National Piping Centre
• New Chocolate Company Tasting
• Newmarket-on-Fergus
• O'Connors Famous Pub
• Páidí Ó Sé’s Pub
• Parknasilla House
• Peace Bridge
• Pollok House
• Quiet Man Walking Tour
• Rhine Gorge
• Ring of Kerry
• Riverside Transport Museum
• Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
• Rosscarbery
• Royal Tunbridge Wells
• Royal Yacht Britannia
• Scotney Castle
• Scottish Evening
• Seaweed Foraging
• Shepherd Neame Brewery
• Sissinghurst Castle Garden
• Sistine Chapel
• Slane Castle & Distillery
• Slea Head Loop
• Smithwick's Experience
• Spike Island
• St Michael's Mount
• St Patrick's Day in Dublin
• St. Austell
• St. Michan's Church Crypt
• St. Paul's Cathedral
• St. Peter's Basilica
• Stone of Destiny
• Strahov Stadium
• Stratford-upon-Avon
• Strokkur Geysir
• Svartifoss Waterfall
• Taigh Chearsabhagh
• Taylors Three Rock Pub
• Teeling Distillery
• Tenby Walking Tour
• Thames River Cruise
• The Armitt Museum
• The Church Bar and Restaurant
• The Glyde Inn
• Thingvellir National Park
• Three Bridges
• Timoleague Franciscan Friary
• Tintern Abbey
• Titanic Belfast
• Titanic Walking Tour
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• Toompea Castle
• Tower of London
• Town Crier Tour
• Trafalgar Square
• Trevi Fountain
• Trim Castle
• Trim Living History
• Trinity College
• Triona Design
• Trotternish Peninsula
• Turf-Cutting Demonstration
• Turkish Bazaar Bas Carsija
• Uffizi Gallery
• UN Building
• Upper and Lower Old Town
• Veliko Jezero
• Venice Gondola Ride
• Venice Walking Tour
• Victorian Tall Ship
• Viking Splash Dublin Tour
• Villa Borghese Gardens
• Vilnius Castle
• Vilnius University
• Vintage Afternoon Tea Tour
• Walking Tour of Korcula
• Walled City Brewery
• Warner Brothers Studio “Making of Harry Potter”
• Waterford Crystal
• Waterford Tour
• Welsh Banquet
• Welsh Language Lesson
• Wenceslas Square
• West Coast Coastal Drive
• Westminster Abbey
• Westport House
• Whitby Tour
• White Cliffs
• Wild Atlantic Way Drive
• Windsor Castle
• Winter Palace
• Yansa Gora Monastery
• York Minster
• York Walking Tour
• Zwinger Palace
• Abbotsford House
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Ardmhor on Barra
• Armadale Castle
• Armory Museum
• Astronomical Clock
• Auschwitz-Birkenau
• Ballintubber Abbey
• Bamburgh Castle
• Bannockburn Visitor Center
• Baroque Town Hall
• Basilica of San Marco
• Bell Tower Clock
• Belleek Pottery
• Belvedere Palace
• Betws-y-Coed
• Black Madonna
• Blair Athol Distillery
• Blair Castle
• Blarney Castle & Killarney
• Blarney Woollen Mills
• Blasket Centre
• Bled Castle
• Blenheim Palace
• Blue Lagoon
• Bodmin Moor
• Bodnant Welsh Food Centre
• Boka Waterfall
• Book of Kells
• Bosta Beach
• Brecon Beacons National Park
• British Golf Museum
• British Museum
• British Music Experience
• Brodie Castle
• Brú na Boinne Visitor Center
• Bunratty Castle
• Burren Smokehouse
• Cabra Castle
• Caernarfon Castle
• Callanish Standing Stones
• Canal Cruise
• Cardiff Bay Tour
• Cardiff Castle
• Cardiff Tour
• Castle Esplanade
• Castle Hill
• Castle Howard
• Castle Square
• Cathedral of St. Dude
• Cathedral of St. Vitus
• Catherine Palace & Park
• Cavern Club
• Cawdor Castle
• Charles Bridge
• Chester Cathedral
• Chester Walking Tour
• Church of St. Donat
• Churchill Barriers
• Clan Donald Centre
• Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
• Corrib Cruise
• Crown Jewels
• Cruiser Aurora
• Crumlin Road Gaol
• Culloden Battlefield Visitor Center
• Culross (Outlander)
• Culross Abbey
• Culross Palace
• Daliborka Tower
• Dan O’Hara’s Homestead Farmhouse Visit
• Dartmoor National Park
• Derry’s Medieval Walls
• Dingle Bay Cruise
• Dingle Peninsula
• Diocletian’s Palace
• Doge’s Palace
• Dome Cathedral
• Dominican Monastery
• Donegal Castle
• Doune Castle
• Dublin Castle
• Dubrovnik Walking Tour
• Dun Carloway Broch
• Dunbrody Famine Ship
• Dunrobin Castle
• Edinburgh Tour
• Eiffel Tower
• Eilean Donan Castle
• EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
• Evening Canal Cruise
• Falconry Exhibition
• Famous Blacksmiths Shop
• Field of Mars
• Firth of Forth
• Fisherman’s Bastion
• Florence Walking Tour
• Fort Augustus
• Fort William
• Forth Bridge
• Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum
• Franciscan Monastery
• Fridheimar Tomato Farm
• Gavrilo Princip Museum
• Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
• Gediminas’ Tower
• Gellert Hill Citadel
• General Post Office Museum
• Giant’s Causeway
• Glamis Castle
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Glen Grant Distillery
• Glencoe Mountains
• Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
• Glenfiddich Distillery
• Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter)
• Glengesh Pass
• Goathland Station (Hogsmeade from Harry Potter)
• Golden Circle
• Golden Lane
• Goriska Brda
• Gothic-Baroque Cathedral of St. Mark
• Government Palace
• Gower Peninsula
• Grafton Street, Dublin
• Grampian Mountains
• Great Orme Tramway
• Gruz Harbor
• Guinness Storehouse
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Hallgrímskirkja
• Harlech Castle
• Harry Potter Walking Tour
• Harry’s Bar
• Hebridean Smokehouse
• Hekla Volcano
• Heroes’ Square
• Highland Safaris
• Hillsborough Castle
• Hofburg Palace
• Holy Trinity St. Sergius Lavra
• Horgabost Beach
• Horseshoe Pass
• Houses of Parliament
• Husref Bay’s Mosque
• Hvar Island
• Inveraray Castle
• Inverewe Gardens
• Isle of Benbecula
• Isle of Bute
• Isle of Harris Distillery
• Isle of Lewis
• Italian Chapel
• Jacobite Steam Train
• Jamaica Inn
• Jaunting Car Ride
• Jewish Ghetto
• Johnstons of Elgin
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Jupiter’s Temple
• Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church
• Kashmir Goats
• Kensington Palace
• Killarney National Park
• Killarney’s Lakes
• Killary Harbour
• Kilmainham Gaol
• Kilmuir Graveyard
• Kinsale Walk
• Knock Shrine
• Kylemore Abbey & Gardens
• Lake Bohinj
• Lake District
• Lake Windermere Cruise
• Lanhydrock House
• Lava Center
• Lazienki Park & Palace
• Leverburgh on Harris
• Liberty Monument
• Limerick Panoramic Tour
• Lissadell House
• Literary Tea with Scones
• Little Museum of Dublin
• Llandudno Tram
• Loch an Duin
• Loch Linnhe
• Lochboisdale
• London Pub Food Tour
• London Tour
• Lovespoon Workshop
• Luskentyre Beach
• Lynch’s Castle
• Machynlleth
• Malo Jezero
• Matthias Church
• Mayflower Steps
• Medieval Castle Banquet
• Mercato Centrale
• Merry Ploughboy Pub
• Mljet Island & National Park
• Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto
• Moscow University
• Mount Snowdon
• Mount Stuart House
• Nace Homestead
• Nant Gwrtheyrn Welsh Heritage Centre
• National Slate Museum
• Nelson’s Column
• Neolithic Tombs
• Nevsky Prospect
• Nine Glens of Antrim
• North Yorkshire Moors Railway
• Northern Lights
• Novodevichy Convent
• Old Market Square
• Old Royal Palace
• Olive Oil & Wine Tasting
• Olympic Stadium
• Orlando’s Column
• Our Lady of the Rocks
• Oxford Walking Tour
• Palace of Holyroodhouse
• Palace of Science and Culture
• Palace Square
• Palaces for the People
• Palazzo Vecchio
• Pembroke Castle
• Penderyn Distillery
• Peter and Paul Cathedral
• Peter and Paul Fortress
• Petrodvorets
• Piazza della Signoria
• Piccadilly Circus
• Pitlochry Pub Lunch
• Plitvice Lakes
• Politician Pub
• Poljanska Sora
• Postojna Cave
• Powerscourt House
• Prater Amusement Park
• Provand’s Lordship
• Rannoch Moor
• Rector’s Palace
• Red Deer Encounter
• Reykjavik City Tour
• Reynisfjara Beach
• Riga Castle
• Ring of Brodgar
• River Avon Cruise
• River Clyde
• River Moskva
• River Shannon
• Robba’s Fountain
• Roman baths
• Roman Forum
• Ross Castle
• Royal and Ancient Clubhouse
• Royal Castle
• Royal Castle of Hradcany
• Royal Cathedral
• Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
• Royal Military Tattoo
• Royal Route
• Russborough House
• Russian Folklore
• Saxon Gardens
• Schiller Theater
• Schloss Charlottenburg
• Scone Palace
• Secret Lagoon
• Seine River Cruise
• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
• Selska Sora
• Semper Opera House
• Senate Square
• Sergiev Posad
• Shakespeare’s Birthplace
• Sheepdog Demonstration
• Shepherd’s Museum
• Shrewsbury Walking Tour
• Skaftafell National Park
• Skellig Experience
• Skofja Loka
• Skogafoss Waterfall
• Skogar Folk Museum
• Slieve League Cliffs
• Smallest House in Britain
• Smolny Cathedral
• Snowdonia National Park
• South Pole Inn
• Spanish Steps
• Spean Bridge
• Speyside Distilleries
• Sponza Palace
• Square of the Five Wells
• St. Anastasia
• St. Andrews Castle
• St. Andrews Walk
• St. Anne’s Church
• St. Asaph’s Cathedral
• St. Basil’s Cathedral
• St. Catherine’s Church
• St. Columba’s Cathedral
• St. David’s Cathedral
• St. Fagans Castle
• St. Fagans National Museum of History
• St. George’s Basilica
• St. Isaac’s Cathedral
• St. Isaac’s Square
• St. Jacobs Cathedral
• St. John’s Cathedral
• St. Magnus Cathedral
• St. Mark’s Church
• St. Mary’s Church
• St. Michael’s Mount
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• St. Patrick’s Grave
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• St. Peter and Paul’s Church
• St. Peter’s Church
• St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Step Dancing
• Staff Picks
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Scottish Daytripper

Starting from $1,695

Immerse yourself in history, culture and natural splendor as you unpack once in thriving Glasgow and discover Arran, the Highlands, the Scottish Borders, and Edinburgh.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

2025 Tours: Save $300pp - Use Code EBD25300

Taste of Scotland & Ireland

Starting from $3,195

The perfect combination of two great countries in one itinerary. Start in Glasgow before exploring the Scottish Highlands with a Loch Ness cruise and whisky tasting. Visit St Andrews and Edinburgh…

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Scottish Dream

Starting from $2,695

Check the must-sees off of your wish list on this good-value Scotland tour, which is an ideal introduction to the bustling cities and breathtaking landscapes.

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The Scots Irish Tour

Starting from $3,595

This fast-paced Scotland and Ireland tour focuses on their rich history, with plenty of castle tours and museums to help bring the past to life. It's the perfect trip for those interested in…

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Taste of Scotland

Starting from $1,345

Explore the very best of Scotland's gorgeous scenery and bustling cities on this short-and-sweet introductory tour. 

Scottish Isles & Glens

Starting from $3,995

Head a little off the beaten path on this tour of Scotland's rugged Highlands, coastal byways, and the archaeological treasures on Orkney and the Isle of Skye.

Scottish & Irish Dream

Starting from $4,195

This great combination tour covers essential parts of Scotland with dreamy castles, mythical Isle of Skye, historic Culloden, skilled sheepdogs and the capital city of Edinburgh. Your adventure…

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Scottish Clans & Castles

Starting from $3,045

Revisit the past on this leisurely Scottish tour filled with castle ruins, ancient battlefields, and colorful stories from the country's rich history.

Scottish & Irish Gold

Starting from $4,495

This great combination tour covers the same itinerary in Scotland as on the Scottish & Irish Dream with romantic castles, mythical Isle of Skye, historic Culloden, and Edinburgh. In Ireland…

Best of Britain

Starting from $2,845

This fast-paced tour is the perfect introduction to England, Scotland and Wales, showcasing the very best historical and scenic spots, alongside vibrant cities. 

Taste of Britain

Starting from $2,195

Sample the highlights of England and Scotland on this week-long adventure, covering the bustling cities of London and Edinburgh, the history of Bath and Stratford-Upon-Avon, and the charming…

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Highlights of Britain

Go off the beaten path as you traverse the whole of Britain to see Devon and Cornwall in England’s Southwest, the medieval heritage of Wales, and Scotland’s delights.

Scotland at a glance

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Must-have souvenirs

A good bottle of malt Scotch whisky

Something tartan

Scottish shortbread

I had a magnificent journey through the lowlands and highlands of Scotland. Everything about this tour was top notch.

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Amazing Britain

17 Locations

2 Countries

Discover Amazing Britain on this unforgettable trip. From Shakespeare’s theatrical roots and mystical Stonehenge to the fresh air and rugged outdoors of the Scottish Highlands, where you’ll learn all about the locals’ favorite drink at a traditional whisky distillery.

Save up to $472

Best of Scotland

9 Locations

Experience the Best of Scotland from Edinburgh Castle to the eclectic streets of Glasgow. Revel in the romance and history of the Scottish Highlands and contemplate the mysterious depths of Loch Ness, before toasting bonnie Scotland’s lochs, glens and legendary locals.

Save up to $843

Best of Ireland and Scotland

21 Locations

3 Countries

Travel to see the very Best of Ireland and Scotland, from delicate Waterford Crystal to the golfing greats of St. Andrews. Kiss the Blarney Stone and you’ll be sharing tales from Giant’s Causeway, the Ring of Kerry and the Scottish Highlands for years to come.

Save up to $547

Britain and Ireland Highlights

15 Locations

5 Countries

Short on travel time but want to see all the Britain and Ireland highlights? This trip delivers the genius of Shakespeare, Waterford crystal creations in Ireland and a hearty Welsh dinner at a local vineyard, with a side of ancient history, in just over one week.

See More Scotland Trips

The best of Scotland unlocked for you

Experience Scotland differently. Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

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With breathtaking scenery, hearty cuisine and ancient history and culture, it's easy to fall in love with Scotland. Join your expert Trafalgar Travel Director and roam the wild Highlands, misty glens, medieval cities and majestic castles in this land of Vikings, Romans and royalty.

Ramble up the Royal Mile in Edinburgh

Follow in the footsteps of kings and queens from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to Edinburgh Castle. As we wander the once processional route, you will sample Scottish specialties and glimpse the city’s medieval past. Scotland’s authentic charm fills Edinburgh’s narrow closes and wynds.

Journey through Scottish Highlands

Wind north through sweeping glens, and you will understand this ancient land. On your Scottish Highlands tour, you will appreciate the waterfalls and haunted past of Glencoe Valley, the mythical monster of Loch Ness and the medieval ruins of Urquhart Castle.

View Arthur's Seat

Not far from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, you’ll find a taste of Scotland's wild countryside. Hike up windswept hills alive with heather flower in bloom, and sit atop an ancient volcano watching the sprawling city below.

Hear the story of the Royal Yacht Britannia

Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia and discover what royal glamor looks like at sea. The British Monarch’s boat for over 40 years, this extravagant watercraft is now permanently docked in Edinburgh. Spend a few hours exploring the vessel to see where the Princes spent their summers and world leaders and celebrities were once entertained.

Watch a Highland dance or two

There’s nothing quaint about the Scottish pastime of a Highlands dance. Walk into a pub and be enlivened by the many folk musicians playing fiddles, flutes, drums and accordions all around the Isles. You can watch with your pint or let the driving rhythms take you dancing. Either way, you’ll feel connected to the true spirit of Scotland.

Our top 5 things to do in Scotland

You'll uncover plenty of natural beauty and human history on our vibrant trips to Scotland. Stroll Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile, climb the rugged hills of Arthur's Seat and journey through the Highland wilderness.

Edinburgh Castle

The ancient walls of Edinburgh Castle have been touched by soldiers, kings, queens and even the odd pirate. Immerse yourself in Scottish history, gazing at crown jewels worn by Mary Queen of Scots and wooden doors vandalized by prisoners of war. Don’t miss the 1 o'clock gun that rings out over Edinburgh.

National Museum of Scotland

This unassuming Victorian building is brimming with history of Scotland and the world. Discover the wonders of nature, art, design, science and technology through this diverse collection. Spend a day wandering from room to room, never running short of things to learn.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Enjoy a captivating lesson in life and expression at Kelvingrove. Delve into natural history, arms and armor, fine art and everything between. From the Spitfire plane hanging from the ceiling of the west court to the collections of the Glasgow Boys and Salvador Dali in the east, this space will leave you spellbound.

Best museums in Scotland

Spend hours and days fascinated by the stories held in the museums of Scotland. Trafalgar's picks will prove these enthralling institutions shouldn't be saved for a cloudy day.

Originally served as a hearty meal to Scots on long journeys across Highland hills and heather-clad moors, the nation still loves Haggis. And with its rustic flavor and peppery kick, you will too. Have a taste and wash it down with a wee dram.

Cullen Skink

Hailing from the town of Cullen, this soup was made to warm the cockles of weary fishermen. Hence it’s made thick, creamy and comforting. With chunks of velvety leeks, potato and smoked fish, this smooth and flavorful meal is not to be missed.

Scottish Whisky

The Scottish isles are home to one of the world's most revered spirits - whisky. Speyside malts, smokey Islay drams and smooth blends can all be found here. Try it in a local pub or an award winning distillery. Either way, there's nothing quite like the taste of Scotch in the land where it was made.

Best food in Scotland

If it seems like Scottish cuisine is designed to warm your insides, that’s because it is. Come sunshine or rain, the dishes you'll enjoy on our trips are just another reason to love Scotland.

What to pack for Scotland

Walking shoes

Something comfortable and flat, with grip. There's a lot of exploring to do and the hills of Scotland are just as abundant in the cities as they are in the countryside.

Something warm

Even in the height of summer the Scottish night air has a bite. To make the most of your Scotland adventure, bring along a quality coat or jacket.

Woollen socks

A couple of pairs of woollen socks will serve you well in Scotland. They're warm and thick but surprisingly light to carry, perfect for protecting feet from long walks or the country’s beloved cold stone floors.

Prepare to sample the finest whisky distilleries around with hydralytes. Enjoy a tipple or two or three and you will still be fresh for adventures the following morning.

When planning a trip to Scotland, plan to pack less. Leave some space to bring home some of their specialties like shortbread for friends and cashmere for yourself.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and reusable toiletry bottles.

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Mythical. Legendary. Scenic.

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Destination must-see's.

Highlands (scenery):

Gaze upon the undeniable beauty that serves as a backdrop to the ancient and mythical stories of old. The Scottish Highlands are a mountainous region encompassing northwest Scotland. Inverness is a city in the Scottish Highlands, and is registered as the capital of the Scottish Highlands. It sits on the banks of the River Ness. Even though it is a city, Inverness still retains a market feel to it. Tourism is an important part of the economy in Inverness.

Stroll through the intriguing capital city of Scotland, replete with gorgeous vistas and captivating historical sights. The city's various historical and cultural attractions, as well as the appeal to the tourist market, makes Edinburgh the most popular tourist destination in the UK after London, attracting over 1 million overseas visitors each year. Don’t forget the Edinburgh Castle! This is a historic castle and fortress located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It sits atop Castle Rock in the city center and is an integral part of Edinburgh’s skyline. In present day the castle is a major tourist attraction for the city. It is the most visited attraction in Scotland.

Orkney Islands:

Off the coast of Northern Scotland, 10 miles from Duncansby Head in Caithness, lies a stunning archipelago comprised of 70 islands that are famously called the Orkney Islands. This breathtaking spot off the beaten path is waiting for your discovery. Voyage by ferry to the islands, keeping an eye out for an abundance of bird life, porpoises and seals. A local guide reveals its Viking heritage and introduces you to the wonders around you. To make the visit even more wonderful, visit Skara Brae and find the remains of a Neolithic village built at the same time as the Great Pyramid in Egypt. It’s a journey through history – a true highlight of your tour to fascinating Scotland.

Military Tattoo:

Since 1950 the iconic Edinburgh Military Tattoo has dazzled millions of spectators with performances from musicians, pipers, drummers, singers and dancers. This epic show, unique every year, takes place at the haunting Edinburgh Castle illuminated under the open sky. In the past, the show’s themes have paid tribute to nature, the Queen’s 90th birthday, and Scotland's homecoming, to name a few. This international festival comes alive with performers from a multitude of countries and audience members from around the world. Military pageantry and cultural celebrations, culminating with a spectacular fireworks display, set the stage for an amazing evening.

Destination Must-Do's

Sip on the finest and most desired whisky in the world, as it has been the national drink of Scotland for centuries (since 1494!). Scotland has perfected the art of whisky distilling for generations. Stored in oak casts in warehouses to mature, it is not until decades after this whisky is perfect. With 5 different whisky regions in Scotland each with its own unique flavor, there is a whisky out there for you.

The easily identifiable pattern of crisscrossed bands of colors are seen on traditional Scottish clothing. This is seen on almost every Scottish kilt, which was originally made of wool, but now in many other materials. Tartan has become an iconic symbol of Scotland (every clan has their own design) and can still be seen quite often when traveling throughout the country.

St. Andrews (Golf):

St. Andrews is a former royal borough on the east coast of Scotland. It is home to the University of St. Andrews, the 3rd oldest university in the English speaking world, as well as the oldest university in Scotland. St. Andrews is known as the worldwide home of golf. Many visitors come to St. Andrews for the golf courses, which are ranked some of the finest in the world. The Open Championship, the oldest of golf’s four major championships, is frequently held in St. Andrews. Get a chance to swing your clubs on this marvelous course and maybe even get a souvenir.

Learn a little Scottish Gaelic with this word meaning “lake”- Loch Ness monster ring a bell? Loch Ness is a large, deep freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands extending approximately 23 miles southwest of the city of Inverness. Loch Ness is best known for the alleged sightings of the Loch Ness monster. While Loch Ness is not the largest Scottish loch by surface area, it is the largest by volume, with its deepest point at 755 feet.

Expert Advice

Don’t overlook the off-season months when it comes to Scotland. The winter months mean you’ll have less crowds at historic sites and more time to meet the people who call this charming country home.

Try Haggis! Haggis is a savoury pudding containing sheep's pluck; minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and salt, mixed with stock. Trust me, no matter what you’ve heard, it’s delicious, and hey you only live once!

Check out the Fairy Pools in Skye. These beautiful crystal clear blue pools make for a great photo spot, and for the daring a ‘wild swimming’ spot.

Featured Tours to Scotland

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Your Scotland Vacation

When adventure calls, answer it with a vacation package to Scotland. Begin your journey with a visit to Glasgow, which is known among other things for its history and culture. Kick off your trip to Scotland with a couple of nights in Edinburgh . Families staying here highly rate Royal Yacht Britannia and Dynamic Earth. Glasgow is another top city that lures travelers from all over. If you're treating your special someone to a romantic getaway, don't miss Clyde Auditorium and Kings Theatre Glasgow. Start packing your bags, because your Scotland vacation is only a few clicks away with Expedia.

Top destinations in Scotland

Isle of Skye

St. Andrews

The Latest Scotland Vacation Packages

The Knight Residence Apartments by Mansley

Reviewed on May 17, 2024

Ayr Retreat - Donnini Apartments

Cheval Old Town Chambers

Reviewed on May 18, 2024

Le Monde Hotel

Reviewed on May 12, 2024

Trump Turnberry

Reviewed on Jan 27, 2024

Where to stay in Scotland

Old Town Edinburgh

Preserving its medieval street plan, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features the Royal Mile, St. Giles' Cathedral, and the National Museum of Scotland. Explore narrow closes and hidden passages for a unique experience.

City Centre Glasgow

Home to Glasgow's main cultural venues and higher education institutions, this bustling central district offers luxury apartments, shopping at Buchanan Galleries and Princes Square, and historic sights like Glasgow Cathedral and George Square.

Edinburgh City Centre

While you're in Edinburgh City Centre, take in top sights like Edinburgh Castle or Princes Street, and hop on the metro to see more the city at St Andrew Square Tram Stop or Princes Street Tram Stop.

Inverness City Centre

Known as the capital of the Highlands, this is a city where museums, galleries and restaurants stand before castle and cathedral backdrops.

Discover original neo-classical and Georgian architecture in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, housing the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy Building. Shop along Princes Street, George Street, and the newly redeveloped St James Quarter.

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Reviewed on May 14, 2024

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in scotland, edinburgh castle.

Fortress, palace and repository of the crown jewels, this landmark overlooking the city has played a crucial role in Scottish history.

Explore this area in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town to find ancient buildings, historic relics, shops, museums and range of dining options.

Glasgow's multipurpose events venue attracts the biggest names in entertainment. Come to see a performance or simply to admire the building's design.

What to do in Scotland

Edinburgh: palace of holyroodhouse entry ticket, other vacations you might like.

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Scotland Tours & Vacations

Misty highlands, sparkling lochs and rolling hills – there is a reason Scotland is known for its natural beauty. 

But it’s not all just deserted moors and moss-covered forests (although there are plenty of those too!), Scotland’s rich history and culture are also a big drawcard. From exploring the medieval city of Edinburgh , to the lively fun of a traditional pub where many a wee whisky can be enjoyed, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the hospitality of the local Scots beyond the clichés of kilts and bagpipes. Discovering areas like the enchanting Scottish Highlands , the modern hub of Glasgow and the wilderness of the Isle of Skye, all with the inside knowledge of a local leader is an entirely unique experience.

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Highlights of Scotland

Scotland's Orkney Islands

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Articles of Scotland

Chill out: Beat the summer heat with these cool escapes

Uncovering Edinburgh’s unseen stories with Invisible Cities  

The world’s first rewilding centre in Scotland is tuning into nature’s healing instincts 

Visit the site of the World Stone Skimming Championships in Scotland  

England or Scotland? Which country should you visit next?

Scotland or Ireland: which country should you travel to next?

Eat at these 8 Inverness restaurants for a meal you won’t forget

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Learn more about Scotland

Local culture.

Some might know the Scots, as they are fondly referred to, for their tartan kilts, bagpipe playing, whisky or delicious shortbread, but there is a lot more to this British nation than these clichés.  

The people of Scotland are a mixture of Scottish,  British  and several minority immigrant groups. Many of Scotland’s traditions have roots in Celtic heritage. A large portion of the population are Christian, with some Catholics and others who make up the Kirk, the Presbyterian Church of Scotland. The Scottish are famous for their polite and friendly nature, stoic attitude and good sense of humor.

Soccer or football as it is known locally is a very popular sport, with rugby also being widely watched. For literature fans, the Harry Potter book series is deeply connected with the city of Edinburgh, as it was here that author JK Rowling lived when she wrote most of the books. You can visit the cafes where she wrote as well as see many of the places that inspired parts of her stories, including cemeteries and other buildings.

Geography and environment

Scotland is the most northern part of Great Britain and borders England. The low mountains of the highlands make up 60 per cent of Scotland’s land. Scotland’s flora is similar to most of northern Europe with forests, rugged coasts and moors. There are 62 different species of wild mammals in Scotland, common ones include: grouse, wild cats and off the coast there are many seabirds, seals and dolphins.

The climate of Scotland is classified as temperate, which means it has distinct seasonal changes and wider ranges of temperatures throughout the year. In winter, average temperatures are between five and seven degrees Celsius (41 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit) and in summer between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). The western highlands experience a lot of rain throughout the year, but other areas of Scotland receive much less rain.

If you’re looking to buy authentic Scottish wares, there are options aplenty in the capital city of Edinburgh and other large cities like Glasgow.

If you are after something special, some Edinburgh Crystal, which is owned by Waterford Wedgewood makes an excellent luxury souvenir. Deck yourself out with a set of new drinking glasses, bowls or for something really different – a crystal bell.

If you’re after a gift or souvenir that is a little more edible, you can’t go past a bottle of authentic Scottish whisky. Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a popular choice and whether you’re a connoisseur or a total whisky novice, the local proprietors will love talking you through the different tipples – they are a passionate lot.

If you have family heritage in Scotland, it can be a fun exercise to hunt down your clan tartan. But even if you don’t have one, a woollen scarf, hat or if you’re feeling brave, a kilt, is a distinctly Scottish piece of attire to add to your wardrobe.

Festivals and events

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is on during August each year and is a massive global arts and cultural event. It takes places in over 300 venues around Edinburgh and includes a range of performances and experiences across theatre, comedy, dance, physical theatre, circus, cabaret, children's shows, musicals, opera, music, spoken word, exhibitions and events.

Hogmanay Street Party

Hogmanay is a traditional Scottish celebration that takes place over New Year’s. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party is a three-day festival that runs at various locations across the city. With multiple stages with entertainment set up, a torchlight procession and plenty of opportunities for a ‘wee dram’, tickets for this festival are highly sought after and can sell out months in advance.

Highland Games

The Highland Games are held in spring and summer and are one of Scotland’s most iconic events. There are many traditional athletic events like tug-of-war and caber toss, where competitors dress in traditional kilts and spectators enjoy all the social and cultural festivities that come with it, including traditional food, drinks and music.

The Glasgow Whisky Festival

If you’re heading to Glasgow as well as Edinburgh (and you should!) the Whisky Festival is a great time to go. A showcase of Scottish and specifically Glaswegian distillers is the focus, but there is also a celebration of international whisky too, with attendees from all over the world. It is Scotland’s national drink after all…

Scottish food

The Scottish food scene is garnering international attention thanks to Scotland's elite chefs like Gordon Ramsay (Scottish born, even if he did spend his schoolyears in England), Nick Nairn and Andrew Fairlie. These culinary wizards are taking the country's incredible natural produce – beef, venison and seafood – and bringing us a whole new era of more refined Scottish cuisine. However, if you’re looking for some traditional Scottish fare, here are some dishes you must try.

It might not sound very appealing but if you’re a meat eater, you might surprise yourself by enjoying haggis too. Haggis is made of sheep or calf offal, mixed with oatmeal and seasoning before being boiled in a bag (although traditionally it was boiled in the lining of an animal’s stomach). The overall effect is not dissimilar to a sausage with a grainier texture and is often served alongside a traditional roast dinner.

Scottish porridge

A traditional breakfast food, Scottish porridge differs slightly from the standard oatmeal you might be used to eating at home. It has been a population dish for centuries and traditionally should be eaten out of a wooden bowl, with everyone dipping their oats into a communal bowl of cream (for some reason you should also eat it standing up). The preparation is also quite unique – traditionally it should be stirred with a wooden rod called a spirtle and only ever stirred clockwise with your right hand, unless you want to incur the wrath of the devil. While you might put sugar on your porridge at home, in Scotland it’s served with a generous pinch of salt!

A traditional Scottish shortbread is a simple biscuit cake with only three ingredients. Butter, sugar and flour. Cover it in sugar and cut the cake into wedges while it’s still hot and it will cool into delicious, crumbly triangle-shaped biscuits. It’s all in the texture…

Scotch pies

A scotch pie is a meat pie, traditionally filled with mutton or other mincemeat. It is double crusted, single portion pie that is often enjoyed at soccer (football) games, which has earned it the nickname of ‘football pie’. The lid of the pie is slightly sunken from the crust, to allow space for condiments to be put on top.

Further reading

• Tam O’Shanter by Robert Burns

Doctor Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Stevenson

The Complete Works of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

A Drunk Man Looks at the Thistle by Hugh McDiarmid

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie by Dame Muriel Spark

Not While the Giro by James Kelman

Wire in the Blood by Val McDermid and Ian Rankin

Scotland travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Scotland?

Visa regulations are always subject to change, which is especially likely after Britain's exit from the European Union (EU), so it's essential to check before leaving home.

Citizens of EU countries, Australia, Canada and the United States have visa-free access to Scotland.

Is tipping customary in Scotland?

Tipping is customary in some situations in Scotland.

Restaurant bills usually include an option to add a gratuity. If this option isn’t present, it’s still common to tip about 10 per cent of the bill.

Tipping about 10 per cent is also standard in taxis. 

What is the internet access like in Scotland?

You will have reliable internet access while in Scotland’s major cities and towns. 

Can I use my cell phone while in Scotland?

You will have cell coverage across most of Scotland, except for some rural and remote areas.

R emember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your cell phone while traveling. 

What are the toilets like in Scotland?

Scotland has Western-style toilets.

What will it cost for a…?

• Cup of coffee = £2.5
• Pint of beer = £4
• Glass of wine = £4 - £5
• Pub lunch = £12 
• Dinner at a mid-range restaurant = £30

Can I drink the water in Scotland?

Drinking tap water is safe in Scotland unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, we recommend avoiding buying bottled water and bring a refillable bottle or canteen with you. 

Are credit cards widely accepted in Scotland?

You will be able to use your credit card readily in Scotland, however it never hurts to carry a small amount of cash on you to make things simpler if you are splitting bills or just want a quick cup of coffee.

What is ATM access like in Scotland?

ATMs are referred to as cashpoints in Scotland and are commonly found.

You can use Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Cirrus, Plus and Maestro at most Scottish ATMs but you will also find international bank ATMs in major cities like Edinburgh and Scotland.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Is Scotland a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Scotland is an open country and legalized same-sex marriage in 2014. Edinburgh and Glasgow in particular have small but flourishing gay communities. 

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex   or  Smartraveller  before you travel.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

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How to Plan the Perfect Scotland Vacation

From fairy-tale castles to charming small towns, the Scottish countryside is every bit as spectacular as you've heard.

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With its stately castles , glass-like lochs, and voluptuous glens, Scotland has always been a showstopper. The country's magic extends from its quaint small towns to the snow-capped peaks of its romantic, rugged Highlands to its dynamic modern cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh. It's home to some of the best national parks in the U.K. and more than 900 offshore islands with extraordinary wildlife like regal red stags, majestic golden eagles, humpback whales, and massive salmon (not to mention the fabled inhabitant of Loch Ness, too).

The raw, poetic beauty of this ancient land — formerly known as Caledonia — is difficult to overstate. If you're hoping to head to the U.K.'s ravishing northern nation, read on for our guide to planning the perfect Scotland vacation.

The bad news is that, like the rest of the U.K., Scotland's weather is far from reliable, even at the height of summer. But as long as you're prepared to accept that and pack a raincoat for the odd shower or two, then you'll be fine from May to September. The smart money is on visiting in June and the first two weeks of July, when Scotland basks in seemingly endless summer evenings (the sun doesn't set until 11 p.m. in some parts of the Highlands) and the British school holidays have not yet begun, so prices remain low.

For winter travelers, Scotland has the U.K.'s best ski resort at Cairngorm Mountain , while the capital, Edinburgh, hosts one of the world's biggest New Year's Eve parties, Hogmanay .

If you like the great outdoors, you'll love Scotland. It's an ideal place for hiking, biking, and generally embracing the wildly beautiful landscape. You can summit magnificent Ben Nevis in a day (the tallest mountain in the U.K., at 4,413 feet), take a ferry out to explore the Hebrides archipelago and its stunning white-sand beaches, tour scores of castles, including the Queen's favorite holiday home, Balmoral (open to the public every April through July), and dive into a quirky food scene encompassing dishes like haggis (an offal and oatmeal combo, which tastes significantly better than it sounds), deep-fried mars bars, and juicy scallops, langoustines, and mussels.

Scotland is also a mecca for both golfers ( St. Andrews Old Course is the headline act) and whisky lovers , with some of the world's best distilleries available to tour, including Johnnie Walker on Edinburgh's lively Princes Street, Glenlivet near pretty Ballindalloch, and the legendary Macallan on a sprawling country estate in nearby Aberlour.

If you enjoy driving, you'll find some of the U.K.'s emptiest, most dramatic roads here, too, (as driven by James Bond in "Skyfall"), including the latest official addition, the North Coast 500 , an action-packed 500-mile route (516 to be exact) featuring mind-boggling coastal scenery, jaw-dropping beaches, rolling hillside, quaint fishing villages, and multiple hidden gems.

And if you prefer your challenges on foot, check out the magnificent West Highland Way , the country's best-loved long-distance walking route. Snaking its way from Milngavie to Fort William, it covers some of Scotland's finest scenery over 96 miles and is normally completed from south to north.

Meanwhile, history buffs will also be agog on any visit to Scotland, thanks to its 3,000-plus castles ( Castle Sween in Argyll is the oldest, dating back to the 1100s), as well as plenty to check out in the winding wynds (narrow lanes) and twisted staircases of Edinburgh's enchanting Old Town. ( Edinburgh Castle , towering over the city, is arguably the grandest in the country, too.)

If you can, make time to visit Perth, the former Scottish capital where kings were crowned on the Stone of Destiny and infamous Glen Coe, a beautiful valley full of waterfalls and deer, also known for the brutal clan massacre of 1692 (which inspired the Red Wedding in George R. R. Martin's Game of Thrones ).

Where are the Scottish Highlands — and what is the best way to get there?

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

The clue is in its name: the Highlands are the mountainous upper half of Scotland, covering 10,000 square miles of picturesque scenery. The region's lively capital is Inverness , which sits centrally and is a superb base from which to explore, while other highlights include mysterious, misty Loch Ness, majestic Cairngorms National Park , and idyllic Isle of Skye , which has been connected to the mainland via a road bridge since 1995.

The easiest way to reach the Highlands is to fly into Inverness Airport from London or elsewhere in the U.K., or rent a car and drive from Glasgow or Edinburgh. However, the way to arrive in style is on the Caledonian Sleeper train from London Euston, a chugging time machine where you can fall asleep to the sounds of black cabs and bustle of the British capital and wake up among the red deer and magical glens of the Highlands. Regularly nominated as one of the world's best train journeys , the scenery gets truly spectacular after Fort William, as the route skirts a dramatic chain of lochs before descending into lush glens and crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous by the Harry Potter films. For the ultimate Hogwarts experience, steam locomotives work this route during the summer months, so check in advance for these special departures.

The major cities have an abundance of hotels for every budget, headlined by Glasgow's Kimpton Blythswood Square , a boutique property in the former headquarters of the Royal Scottish Automobile Club, and The Dunstane Houses in Edinburgh, a pair of beautifully renovated 19th-century townhouses.

Scotland arguably does traditional country house hotels and rustic lodges better than anywhere else in the world, with Fife Arms in Braemar and Gleneagles in Perthshire being particular treats (the latter, nicknamed the "Glorious Playground" boasts three championship golf courses, its own dedicated train station, and the only restaurant in the country with two Michelin stars).

Scotland is, of course, peppered with castles, and many have been converted into hotels and B&Bs in recent years, with some of the better fortified accommodation options including Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire, Inverlochy Castle in Fort William, Atholl Palace Hotel in Pitlochry, and Stonefield Castle Hotel on Loch Fyne.

Wherever you stay, you'll get a warm welcome — not to mention a hot bowl of Scottish porridge or a plate of bacon, eggs, and haggis to start the day in a spectacularly scenic country.

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In the northern part of Great Britain, Scotland makes up nearly one-third of the United Kingdom's land area. With a sense of mystery and pride, Scotland's breathtaking, wild beauty consists of Georgian architecture, medieval ruins, rugged landscapes, and scenic lochs throughout the Scottish Countryside. With more castles than anywhere else in the United Kingdom, these medieval marvels are a must-see. In southeast Scotland, Edinburgh Castle commands attention atop Castle Rock, an extinct volcanic hill. As the sound of bagpipes echo through the air adding a musical touch to the country's cultural heritage, Scotland beckons travelers to explore and embrace the warmth of its people, and the rich tradition of kilts and tartans.

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• September through November: 66° to 49° (Autumn)

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The 14 best places to visit in Scotland

Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read

Pack your camping gear (and your rainproofs) and head to some of the best places to visit in Scotland © Robert Coppinger / Shutterstock

Some of the best places to visit in Scotland will be instantly familiar to anyone who’s ever gazed at a whisky label or shortbread tin. Think dramatic peaks, lonely glens, lochs, tartan and haggis!

From spectacular Skye and historic Edinburgh to the rolling rivers of Speyside, Scotland’s big sights are as glorious as you’d imagine. But scratch the surface of this proud nation and you’ll find a varied and engrossing place, dotted with prehistoric villages, wild clubs, rich seafood and ruined abbeys.

So, where to start? Once you've decided on the best time for your visit , you need to decide on the best places to go while you're there. Here is our pick of the best destinations in Scotland to get you started.

1. Edinburgh

Best place for year-round entertainment

Scotland's capital may be famous for its festivals, but there's much more to the city than that. Edinburgh is a place of many moods: visit in spring to see the Old Town silhouetted against a blue sky and a yellow haze of daffodils, or on a chill winter’s day for fog snagging the spires of the Royal Mile, rain on the cobblestones, and a warm glow beckoning from the windows of local pubs. With a world-class modern art gallery , top museums , spooky historic sites and a majestic 12th-century castle , there's plenty to keep you entertained whatever the season.

Local tip: Start your visit to Edinburgh with a climb up Arthur's Seat , an extinct volcano for panoramic views over the city.

2. West Highland Way

Best place for long-distance hiking

The best way to really get inside Scotland's landscapes is to walk them. Here, peaks tower over lochs and sea cliffs gaze over the wind-whipped sea, but there are short woodland trails and charming strolls through valleys dusted with purple heather, too. Top of the wish list for many hikers is the 96-mile West Highland Way from Milngavie (near Glasgow) to Fort William , a weeklong walk through some of the country's finest scenery, finishing in the shadow of its highest peak, Ben Nevis.

If you don’t have the time or energy for a long-distance trek, it's possible to do just a day's hike along part of the trail. For example, you could walk the section from Rowardennan to Inversnaid, returning to your starting point using the Loch Lomond waterbus . Whichever section you take on, pack waterproofs and midge repellent. Rail lovers should note that sleeper trains run south from Fort William all the way to London, making for an easy exit after a walk.

Detour:  The 1,345m (4,413ft) summit of Ben Nevis is within reach of anyone who's reasonably fit: treat the peak with respect and your reward (weather permitting) will be magnificent views that can stretch as far as Northern Ireland.

3. North Coast 500

Best place for a scenic road trip

Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands , but the far north is where things become truly awe-inspiring. This is the best place in Scotland to explore by car (you can also cycle it), with some of the finest roadside scenery in Europe.

The North Coast 500 starts and ends in the likable city of Inverness , and loops past the lochs, sand dunes and golf courses of the east coast before taking in the remote cliffs and beaches of Cape Wrath, the rugged peaks of Assynt and Torridon’s desolate beauty. These sights, and the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in the region's classic rural pubs and old crofting villages, make this an unforgettable weeklong tour.

4. Isle of Skye

Best place for photographers

In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes the top prize. From the craggy peaks of the Cuillins and the bizarre pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing to the spectacular sea cliffs of Neist Point, there's a photo opportunity awaiting you at almost every turn.

Skye is also one of the best places in Scotland to see golden eagles, and you’ll find convivial pubs and top seafood restaurants if you can tear your eyes from the natural world. Of course, all this tourist appeal makes Skye one of Scotland's most popular destinations. The crowds tend to stick to Portree , Dunvegan and Trotternish – it’s almost always possible to find peace and quiet in the island’s further-flung corners.

Planning tip:  Come prepared for changeable weather – when it’s fine, it’s very fine indeed, but all too often it isn’t.

5. Loch Lomond

Best place for a lakeside hike

Despite being less than an hour's drive from the bustle and sprawl of Glasgow, the bonnie braes (banks) of Loch Lomond – immortalized in the words of one of Scotland's best-known songs – comprise one of the most scenic parts of the country.

At the heart of Scotland's first national park , the loch begins as a broad, island-peppered lake in the south, its shores clothed in bluebell-sprinkled woods before narrowing in the north to a fjord-like trench ringed by mountains.

Detour: The summit of Ben Lomond (974m/3,031ft) is a popular climb – follow the well-maintained path for a 7-mile round-trip on the popular Tourist Route (allow around 5 hours).

Best place for live music and pub culture

Scotland's biggest city may lack Edinburgh's stunning setting, but it more than makes up for it with a barrelful of things to do and a warmth and energy that leaves every visitor impressed. Edgy and contemporary, it's a great spot to browse art galleries and museums , and to discover the works of local design hero Charles Rennie Mackintosh .

Glasgow’s infectious vitality is best sampled via its lively pubs and clubs, which host one of the world's great live music scenes.

Local tip:  Check out upcoming (mostly alt-rock) acts at the Barrowland  (crowned 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 dive.

7. Stirling

Best place for castle fans

With an impregnable position atop a mighty wooded crag – the plug of an extinct volcano – Stirling ’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings and cobbled streets winding up to the ramparts of Stirling Castle . This fortress has seen serious action – it was bombarded by the Warwolf, a giant 14th-century English siege engine, and was besieged during the 1745 Jacobite rising, as well as sending troops to the battle of Bannockburn (the decisive battle celebrated at the end of Braveheart ), just a few miles south.

Today, views that stretch to the Highlands, glorious tapestries and juicy history make this Scotland’s best castle – and a great family attraction.

Planning tip:  It's best to visit in the afternoon; many tourists come on day trips, so you may have the castle almost to yourself by 4pm.

8. St Andrews

Best place for golfers

Scotland invented the game of golf, and the city of  St Andrews is still revered as its spiritual home by hackers and champions alike. Links courses are the classic experience here – bumpy coastal affairs where the rough is heather and machair (coastal grass) and the main enemy is the wind, which can make a disaster of a promising round in an instant.

St Andrews, the historic Fife university town, is golf's headquarters , and an irresistible destination for anyone who loves the sport. And if you're not so keen, well, the city has impressive medieval ruins , stately university buildings , idyllic white sands and excellent guesthouses and restaurants .

9. Skara Brae

Best place for lovers of ancient history

When visiting ancient sites, it can sometimes be difficult to bridge the gulf of years or build a connection with the people that built them, but Scotland’s superb prehistoric remains have an immediate impact. Few places offer a better glimpse of everyday Stone Age life than Skara Brae in Orkney  with its carefully constructed fireplaces, beds, cupboards and water cisterns.

This Neolithic village – which, at 5,000 years is older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Giza – lay buried in coastal sand dunes for centuries. Even today, it can feel as though the inhabitants have just slipped out to go fishing and could return at any moment.

10. Glen Coe

Best place for clan history

Scotland's most famous glen combines two essential qualities of the Highlands: dramatic scenery and a deep sense of history. The peace and beauty of this valley today belies the fact that Glen Coe was the scene of a ruthless 17th-century massacre, when the local MacDonalds were murdered by soldiers of the Campbell clan.

Some of the glen's finest walks – to the Lost Valley, for example – follow the routes taken by fleeing clanspeople, many of whom perished in the snow.

Planning tip:  Start at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for more information on this beautiful place and its tragic history.

11. Perthshire

Best place to enjoy nature's bounty

In Perthshire , the heart of Scotland, picturesque towns bloom with flowers, distilleries emit tempting malty odors and sheep graze in impossibly green meadows. There's a feeling of the bounty of nature that no other place in Scotland can replicate.

Blue-gray lochs shimmer, reflecting the changing moods of the weather; centuries-old trees tower amid riverside forests; majestic glens scythe their way into remote wildernesses; and salmon leap upriver to the place of their birth.

12. Shetland Islands

Best place for birdwatching

Close enough to Norway to make Scottish nationality an ambiguous concept, the Shetland Islands are Britain’s most northerly outpost. The stirringly bleak setting – recognized as a precious UNESCO geopark – still feels uniquely Scottish though, with deep, naked glens flanked by steep hills, twinkling, sky-blue lochs and, of course, wandering sheep on the little-trafficked roads. It's the birdlife, however, that really draws visitors here.

From their first arrival in late spring to the raucous feeding frenzies of high summer, the vast colonies of gannets, guillemots, skua, puffins and kittiwakes at Hermaness , Noss, Sumburgh Head and Fair Isle provide some of Britain's most impressive birdwatching experiences.

Local tip: Shetland is one of the best places in the UK to spot orcas (and the Northern Lights).

13. Speyside

Best place for whisky tasting

Scotland's national drink is whisky – from the Gaelic uisge beatha , meaning “water of life” – and this fiery spirit has been distilled here for more than 500 years. More than 50 distilleries are in operation in Speyside, Scotland's most famous whisky area, famed for fruity, lightly spicy flavors (head over to Islay for peatier varieties).

Ask at the Whisky Museum about the Malt Whisky Trail, a self-guided tour around the local distilleries. If you just have time for one, the Balvenie Distillery is a good bet as it still uses a traditional malting floor – the smell is glorious!

Planning tip:  Dufftown lies at the heart of the region and is host to the biannual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

14. The Scotland Borders

Best place for a country ramble

Many visitors to Scotland race up to Edinburgh and then hightail it to the Highlands, missing the Scottish Borders entirely . That's their loss. Once fought over by war chiefs and cattle thieves, the Borders region is rich in history and packed with good cycling and hiking routes.

There are grand country houses, too – Traquair House brews Jacobite Ale and has a concealed room that once hid Catholic priests – and a series of gorgeous ruined abbeys – Gothic Melrose Abbey is the best – plus birds and sea cliffs at St Abb’s Head. More active types can fish for salmon or thunder down the mountain bike trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.

This article was first published May 13, 2021 and updated Nov 19, 2023.

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10 Day Scotland Itinerary: Edinburgh, Glasgow & the Isle of Skye

Julie Last updated: March 15, 2024 Itinerary , Scotland 90 Comments

On a map, Scotland may look small. But don’t let that fool you…there is a lot to see and do here. From visiting castles to sipping whisky to bagging some Munros to exploring the mystical Isle of Skye…there is enough to keep you busy for weeks. In this Scotland itinerary, you will be able to see the very best of this amazing country.

Table of Contents

10 Day Scotland Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Edinburgh Day 2: Edinburgh Day 3: Edinburgh Day 4: Road Trip through Scotland Day 5: Trotternish Loop, Isle of Skye Day 6: Isle of Skye Day 7: Isle of Skye or Hiking in the Highlands Day 8: Glencoe Valley & Glen Etive Day 9: Glasgow Day 10: Fly home

How to Use This Map: Click the tab in the top left hand corner of the map to view the layers (points of interest and the driving route). You can click the check marks to hide or show layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each point of interest.   If you click the star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on your list.

10 Day Edinburgh Itinerary

Scotland itinerary day 1.

Arrive in Edinburgh

Your grand tour of Scotland begins in the medieval city of Edinburgh. Depending on where you are arriving from, you may have limited time (and energy) today.

Check into your hotel and take a quick nap if you need it. Spend the afternoon and early evening getting acquainted with Edinburgh. We recommend strolling the Royal Mile, the main thoroughfare through Edinburgh. Take in the sights and have dinner at one of the many pubs. Dive right into Scottish cuisine by ordering haggis or blood pudding along with a pint of beer.

Cheers! You are in Scotland!

Edinburgh | 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

Where We Stayed in Edinburgh:  The four of us stayed at the  hub by Premiere Inn  Edinburgh Royal Mile. We LOVED it here. For a budget accommodation with a brilliant location that is clean, modern, friendly, and quiet, you cannot beat this place. The rooms are small but their storage solutions are innovative. From a touchpad by the head of the bed we could control our lights, TV, and air conditioner. The hotel is located just one block off of the Royal Mile. There is a café in the downstairs lobby that serves excellent food. I really have nothing bad to say about this place (and that almost never happens). We would stay here again, no doubt about it.

Scotland Itinerary Day 2

To help you plan your time in Edinburgh (on this Scotland itinerary you will have 2 full days), read our 2 Day Edinburgh Itinerary. This itinerary includes maps and lots of important travel planning information, but below I list a quick overview of what you will do on each of these two days.

Your first full day in Edinburgh is a very busy day. Start at Edinburgh Castle , the centerpiece of the city. It’s best to get here before opening time at 9 am to beat the crowds. This castle is one of Edinburgh’s most important historical sites and provides great views over the city. It’s a great starting point to really get to know Edinburgh.

Read more to have the best experience:

Edinburgh Castle: Things to Know before you go

Spend the middle of the day strolling the Royal Mile , visiting places like the Scotch Whisky Experience, St. Giles Cathedral, the Camera Obscura, Real Mary King’s Close, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Finish at Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano with some of the best views over Edinburgh. For full details on how to do this, read our post on Arthur’s Seat.

Arthur’s Seat | 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

Your day ends with dinner. We highly recommend The Scran & Scallie. This local restaurant is located off of the Royal Mile in a local neighborhood in Edinburgh. Use Uber or take a taxi to get here. This was our best meal in Edinburgh and had us dining on local dishes such as meat pies, roasted bone marrow, and ox tongue. It was surprisingly delicious!

Take a look at their menu and consider making a reservation in advance if dinner at the Scran and Scallie interests you. Visit their website here.

You can end your day here, or, if you still have enough energy to keep going, visit one of Edinburgh’s many pubs.

Tonight, sleep in Edinburgh.

Don’t miss our article 2 Days in Edinburgh . It is a detailed itinerary of how to spend two days in Edinburgh, with maps, recommendations on where to eat and where to stay.

Scotland Itinerary Day 3

Start your day at one of Edinburgh’s best museums. Your choices include The National Museum of Scotland (great if you are traveling with kids), The Surgeon’s Hall Museum, the Scottish National Gallery, or the Royal Yacht Britannia.

For lunch, head over to the Old Town of Edinburgh, to the area around Grassmarket and Victoria Street. There are many great restaurants to try in this area. For our list of recommendations, visit our Edinburgh Itinerary.

After lunch, spend the afternoon at Dean Village. Dean Village is a small, residential area in Edinburgh. It’s quiet, it’s beautiful, and it’s off the beaten path. For more info, read our full post on Dean Village.

Dean Village | 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

End your day with dinner in one of Edinburgh’s many amazing restaurants.

Scotland Itinerary Day 4

Road Trip through Scotland

In Scotland, the journey is just as good as the destination. This is a great country for a road trip.

If you drive from Edinburgh directly to the Isle of Skye, it takes between five and six hours with 235 miles of driving. If you are willing to make a 50-mile detour, you can also visit Loch Ness.

To allow yourself enough time, leave Edinburgh no later than 9 am (although earlier is better). Along the way visit Pitlochry, the home of Edradour, Scotland’s smallest whisky distillery. Your scenic drive then continues on to Invergarry with a detour to Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle. Not sure if you want to visit Loch Ness? Read this post before you go:

Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle: Are They Worth Visiting?

View from Loch Ness Castle | 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

Continue on to Eilean Donan Castle , a castle that looks like it belongs in the pages of a fairy tale.

Eilean Donan Castle | 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

From Eilean Donan Castle, you are just ten miles from the Isle of Skye . Most people stay in Portree , one hour away from Eilean Donan Castle.

Get settled into your hotel or bed & breakfast and get ready to explore the awesome Isle of Skye.

For full details on this drive, including directions, maps, and places to visit along the way, read

Driving to the Isle of Skye, Scotland

Where to Stay on the Isle of Skye:  Read our Isle of Skye Travel Guide for recommendations on where to stay.

Scotland Itinerary Day 5

The Trotternish Loop, Isle of Skye

The Trotternish Loop contains the most popular, most epic scenery on the Isle of Skye. From Portree, drive clockwise, going against the heaviest tourist traffic. Today you will visit the Fairy Glen , the Quiraing , Mealt Falls, Brother’s Point , and the Old Man of Storr .

Below is a map of the Isle of Skye with several driving routes. For today’s driving route, follow Day 1: Trotternish Loop ONLY.

How to Use This Map: Click the tab in the top left hand corner of the map to view the layers (places to go and driving routes). You can click the check marks to hide or show layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each point of interest.   If you click the star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on your list.

Today, focus on the Trotternish Loop, which contains many of the highlights in the Isle of Skye. This driving loop starts and ends in Portree. We recommend driving the Loop in a clockwise direction, visiting the sights in this order:

• Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
• Brother’s Point
• Old Man of Storr

In total, it’s 72 km (45 miles) of driving and takes about an hour and a half to drive the full loop. But once you add on time at each sight, this loop will take most of the day. You will be back in Portree in time for dinner. Get more details in our Isle of Skye Itinerary.

Quiraing | 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

Brother’s Point | 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

Old Man of Storr | 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

Return to Portree for dinner. Sleep in Portree or at another town or B&B on the Isle of Skye.

Scotland Itinerary Day 6

Isle of Skye

Today, you will spend the day visiting more famous landmarks and sights on the Isle of Skye.

Below is the map of the Isle of Skye driving routes. Follow Day 2: Fairy Pools, Talisker, Neist Point.

Today’s loop is 150 km (92 miles) round trip and will take about 3 hours without stops. With time at the Fairy Pools, Talisker Distillery, and Neist Point, this driving loop will take a full day. 

Start your day at the Fairy Pools,  an extremely popular place to visit on the Isle of Skye. Get here early (before 9:30 am) to avoid the worst of the crowds. From Portree, it takes about 35 minutes to drive to the Fairy Pools.

Fairy Pools | 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

After the Fairy Pools, visit Talisker Distillery , the only whisky distillery on the Isle of Skye. Take a tour, do a tasting, or purchase some whisky in the souvenir shop.

Have lunch at the Old Inn , which is within walking distance of Talisker Distillery.

Spend the afternoon touring Dunvegan Castle and then watching the sunset at Neist Point.

Neist Point | 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

This evening, sleep on the Isle of Skye (Portree or another town on the Isle of Skye).

Scotland Itinerary Day 7

Isle of Skye or Hiking in the Highlands

Today, you have several options depending on your interests. You can choose to spend more time exploring and/or exploring the Isle of Skye or go hiking in the Highlands of Scotland. Either way, your day will end in Glencoe, where you will sleep tonight.

For hikers, we have three recommended hikes in the area (although there are many more options).

Hike #1: Bla Bheinn

Bla Bheinn (Blaven) is one of the most spectacular hikes on the Isle of Skye. From the summit, you will have 360° views along the Cuillin Ridge and over the Isle of Skye. This hike is 8 km (5 miles) with 1000 meters of ascent. It’s a challenging hike but if you have clear skies, the views of the Isle of Skye are unbeatable. We attempted this hike in the rain and don’t recommend it unless you have clear weather (you can’t see anything in the cloud cover).

Once finished the hike, drive to and sleep in Glencoe.

LEARN MORE: Our Attempt on Bla Bheinn

Hike #2: Kintail Saddle

Hiking option #2 is the Kintail Saddle. This is another spectacular hike and gives you the option to bag not one but two Munros. Located in Shiel Bridge, it is about a 1 ½ to 2 hour drive from Portree, but it is on the way to Glencoe. Once finished the hike, drive to and sleep in Glencoe.

LEARN MORE: Hiking the Kintail Saddle

Kintail Saddle | 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

Hike #3: Aonach Eagach

Hiking option #3 is the legendary Aonach Eagach. This is a challenging, somewhat dangerous hike. Tyler and Kara were too young to do this hike on our visit to Scotland, but it is the first thing we will do on a return trip here. This hike is located in Glencoe. Today, drive to Glencoe and explore Glencoe, with plans to do the hike tomorrow. Read more about the hike on the Walk Highlands website.

Or, Spend More Time on the Isle of Skye

If hiking is not your thing, you can spend today exploring more of the Isle of Skye, and then make your way to Glencoe.

To get from the Isle of Skye to Glencoe, take the ferry from Armadale on the Isle of Skye to Maillag on the mainland. Book your ferry tickets at least several days in advance, especially during the busy summer months. View the timetables and purchase your tickets on the Caledonian MacBrayne website.

On the drive to Glencoe, you will pass the Glenfinnan Viaduct. For Harry Potter fans, this is well worth it. The Glenfinnan Viaduct was used in the filming of the Hogwart’s Express.

Tonight, sleep in Glencoe.

Scotland Itinerary Day 8

Glencoe Valley & Glen Etive

Spend most of the day exploring the gorgeous Glencoe Valley and Glen Etive. Scenic drives and short hikes will fill your day. In the afternoon, make the drive to Glasgow, two hours away.

LEARN MORE: Postcards from Glencoe

Glencoe | 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

Tonight, sleep in  Glasgow.

Where We Stayed in Glasgow:  We stayed at the Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre Buchanan Galleries. This budget hotel has a five star location, being within walking distance of most sights in the city. The rooms are small and nothing fancy but the hotel is clean and quiet. Consider this hotel if you need a budget price with an excellent location.

Scotland Itinerary Day 9

Glasgow is often an overlooked destination in Scotland. Whereas Edinburgh is perfect for tourists, with its castle, medieval architecture, and historical background, Glasgow is a city centered around the people who live and work here.

Glasgow | 10 Day Scotland Itinerary

There are tons of options to fill your time in Glasgow. Visit museums, explore the parks, and tour the art galleries. Or, you could go pub hopping, like we did.

LEARN MORE: Glasgow: 24 Hours of Fun for the Whole Family

Tonight, sleep in Glasgow.

Scotland Itinerary Day 10

Begin your travels home. Or, for those with more time, continue on to your next destination.

How to Modify this Scotland Itinerary

With more time.

Malt Whisky Trail. Drive the whisky trail for several days, visiting places like Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, and so many more. You can add the Malt Whisky Trail into the above itinerary between Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye.

Orkney or Shetland Islands. The Orkney and Shetland Islands are groups of many smaller islands stretching off the northern coast of Scotland. Incredibly scenic, this is definitely getting off the main tourist trail in Scotland.

With Less Time

If you want to visit Scotland but do not have 10 days, here are some recommendations on how to shorten this Scotland itinerary.

If you only have 9 days, eliminate the extra hiking day (day 7 of this Scotland itinerary). 

If you only have 8 days, combine Glencoe and Glasgow. From the Isle of Skye, drive through Glencoe (you can still see it, but you will have limited time for hiking and the detour to Glen Etive) and spend the afternoon in Glasgow.

If you only have 7 days, drive to the Isle of Skye the afternoon of day 3. 

Here is a sample 7 day Scotland itinerary. It now has a big emphasis on Edinburgh and Isle of Skye. To make it worth the drive, I think that the Isle of Skye needs a full two days and two nights. 

Day 1: Arrive in Edinburgh Day 2: Edinburgh Day 3: Edinburgh in the morning, drive to the Isle of Skye in the afternoon Day 4:   Isle of Skye Day 5:   Isle of Skye Day 6:   Drive to Glasgow, visit Glencoe on the drive Day 7: Glasgow

Best Time for this Scotland Itinerary

Spring, summer, and fall are the best seasons to visit Scotland. Summer is peak season, so expect large crowds of tourists and some difficulty finding hotel accommodations, especially on the Isle of Skye. August brings the Fringe Festival, the largest arts festival in the world.

If you want to avoid most of the tourists, late spring and early fall are your best bets.

We visited Scotland at the end of July. 

Planning Your Trip

Rental car and hotel reservations.

For this Scotland itinerary, you will need to rent a car. You do not need a rental car while in Edinburgh, since most sights are within walking distance of the Royal Mile or accessible with public transportation. Pick up your rental car the morning of day 4, when you drive from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye. We picked up our rental car at the train station in Edinburgh. 

• Edinburgh – 3 nights
• Isle of Skye (Portree) – 3 nights
• Glencoe – 1 night
• Glasgow – 2 nights

Average Trip Costs

Here are some estimated costs (all prices are in USD):

Rental car:   $75 to $150 USD per day for a midsize car Fuel: $2 USD per liter ($8 USD per gallon)

Budget Hotel/Dorm:   $15 – $75 Midrange Hotel, double room with two people:   $75 – $200 High end hotel, double room with two people:   $200+

Meals can cost $15 to $35 per dish, depending on the restaurant. To save money, only dine in restaurants once per day and buy groceries at grocery stores.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need in Scotland?

In order to tour the highlights of Scotland (Edinburgh, the Isle of Skye, and the Highlands of Scotland), plan on spending 8 to 10 days in Scotland. Eight days gives you just enough time to spend two full days in Edinburgh, drive to and from the Isle of Skye (visiting a few places on the drive), and two days in the Isle of Skye.

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

Early May through mid-June is a great time to visit Scotland.

We did this itinerary at the end of July. June, July, and August are the warmest months of the year, with average daytime hikes of 16°C (60°F). April, May, and June are the driest months of the year, averaging about 10 days of rain per month. The summer gets the most visitors. If you are looking for good weather and lower crowds, plan your visit from early May through mid-June. Expect big crowds in July and August. In September, visitation and crowds go down, but rain chances increase. 

Do I need a car in Scotland?

You can tour Scotland without a car, by taking the train and using other forms of public transportation or group tours. However, it can be very difficult to get around the Isle of Skye without your own vehicle, so for this Scotland itinerary, we recommend renting a car. 

If you have any questions about this Scotland itinerary, let us know in the comment section below.

EDINBURGH: Learn about the best things to do and how to plan your time in our 2 Day Edinburgh Itinerary. We also have detailed guides on how to hike to Arthur’s Seat, how to visit Edinburgh Castle, and best things to do with kids in Edinburgh.

PLACES TO VISIT IN THE ISLE OF SKYE: For an overview of must-have experiences on the Isle of Skye, read our article Best Things to Do on the Isle of Skye. We also have detailed guides on the Old Man of Storr , the Fairy Pools , the Fairy Glen , Brother’s Point , and the Quiraing .

DRIVING IN SCOTLAND: If your visit to Scotland includes a visit to the Isle of Skye, there are two different routes to get from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye.

EUROPE TRAVEL INSPIRATION: For more great ideas on where to go in Europe, check out our article 30 Beautiful Places to Visit in Europe and the 20 Best Hikes in Europe. You can also get more travel ideas in our 10 Days in Europe itinerary guide, which has 10 great itineraries for your next trip to Europe.

DRIVING IN EUROPE: If you have plans to rent a car in Europe, read our article Things to Know Before Renting a Car in Europe for lots of helpful tips.

Planning a trip to Scotland? Read all of our articles in our Scotland Travel Guide.

More 10 Day European Itineraries

If you are looking for more ideas on how to spend 10 days in Europe, these itineraries may interest you:

• 10 Days in Europe: 1o Itineraries for Your Next Trip
• 10 Days in Italy: Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre & Venice
• 10 Days on Iceland’s Ring Road
• 10 Days in Central Europe: Budapest, Vienna & Prague
• 10 Days in Northern Norway & the Lofoten Islands
• 10 Days in Poland: Gdansk, Warsaw & Krakow
• 10 Days in Ireland: The Ultimate Irish Road Trip
• The Best of London & Paris in 10 Days

For more great itineraries from Europe and around the world, take a look at our Travel Itineraries page.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All rights reserved © Earth Trekkers. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, links, etc.), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited.

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Comments 90

Hello Julie an Tim. We have followed several of your itineraries during the past years. Our last together an perhaps my most memorable was Egypt in the Spring 2022. We spent almost a month in Egypt doing all the things u recommend including a week snorkeling in the Red Sea. Upon returning home Pat was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor. We were looking at Scotland in the Spring 2024. However, he took his last journey alone in September leaving me behind. I am alone now an really want to see Scotland an drive the North Coast 500. I have no time limit now. I have asked my Sister to come along. Now my question, is it possible to see all the places on both the North a South route near Isle of Skye from Edinburgh ? Than continue to drive North up along the coast and return to Edinburgh via the Western side of Scotland? I can’t seem to figure out a route that would include all the stops on both the North and South itinerary. Should I just follow one an double back somewhere?

Hello Bev. I am very sorry to hear about Pat and have been following you, your story, and all of your amazing travels on Facebook. Both you and Pat have been on our hearts and minds since I heard about his diagnosis. Our experience in Scotland is limited to what you see in this itinerary, although it is a place we would love to return to. I just took a quick look at the North Coast 500 and the SWC300. If you wanted to do both, you could visit Edinburgh, drive to Inverness either via the east coast or go through Cairngorms National Park and the Whisky Trail. Then do the NC500 counterclockwise. Once near Kyle of Lochalsh, visit the Isle of Skye. From Skye, take the ferry to Mallaig, drive to Glencoe, and then head south to the SWC300, maybe visiting Glasgow on the way. Drive the SWC300 and then fly home from Edinburgh. I think that would be an amazing loop through Scotland and if you really wanted to be thorough, you could also add on the Isle of Arran or Islay. I can’t wait to see your photos on Facebook! Cheers, Julie

Would you recommend Scotland in the winter? Mid-late February? Cheers

Our only experience in Scotland was in the summer. I know it can be chilly/cold in the winter with shorter days but it is the low season, so hotels will be cheaper, sites will be less busy, and there will be less crowds, so there definitely are some advantages, if you don’t mind the weather. In cities and towns, most places should stay open, I’m just not sure what the more outdoorsy places would be like, such as the Isle of Skye. You can look on weatherspark.com for weather averages and daylight hours, just so you know what to expect weather-wise before making your decision. Cheers, Julie

Hi we are planning to go scotland end if mar and we have 7 full days. Please recommend what can be done in march 23-29

With 7 days, start on day 2 of this itinerary. On day 8 (your day 7) drive directly to Edinburgh for your flight home or wherever you are going next. Cheers, Julie

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President Raisi confirmed dead as wreckage found

Cross erected in memory of explorer shackleton to travel 7,000 miles to scotland.

A memorial to polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton will travel more than 7,000 thousand miles to Dundee to commemorate the 150th anniversary of his birth.

The wooden cross from Shackleton’s Hope Point memorial will soon be on display at Discovery Point museum in Dundee, where the Royal Research Ship (RRS) Discovery, which first carried Shackleton to Antarctica in 1901, is kept.

Shackleton was born in Kilkea, Ireland, in 1874 and died in January 1922, aged 47, after suffering a heart attack on board his expedition ship, the Quest, in South Georgia, a UK overseas territory in the southern Atlantic Ocean.

Crew members of the Shackleton-Rowett expedition erected a memorial at Hope Point, near to his final resting place in Grytviken Cemetery.

The Hope Cross was constructed at nearby Grytviken whaling station by crew members unable to attend the funeral of their expedition leader, whom they called The Boss.

The memorial cairn and cross allowed them to pay their respects, placing a signed group photograph between the rocks.

Crafted from wood salvaged from a nearby whaling station, the cross stood at Hope Point for nearly 100 years, before the decision was made in 2018 to remove it and replace it with a replica to preserve it.

Earlier this year, the cross – measuring almost three metres tall and weighing approximately 30 kilogrammes – was loaded aboard the RRS Sir David Attenborough, to begin the 7,000 mile journey and is expected to arrive in Dundee in August, where a service is expected to be held to commemorate its arrival at the home of the RRS Discovery.

Bringing the memorial cross to Dundee is a collaboration between the Dundee Heritage Trust (DHT) the South Georgia Heritage Trust (SGHT), British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and the Government of South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands (GSGSSI).

The DHT is appealing to fundraise £10,000 for the care of the cross at Discovery Point.

Laura Willis, chief executive of the islands’ government, said: “This unique object embodies the spirit of exploration and endurance that has defined these islands since their discovery almost 300 years ago, through generations of whalers, adventurers, ecologists and conservationists that continue to push the frontiers of knowledge of the sub-polar regions to the present day.

“We hope that its display to a wider audience will inspire visitors, enthusiasts and future generations to contemplate and appreciate the enduring legacy of one of the world’s greatest explorers, as well as the indomitable strength of human spirit.”

Alison Neil, CEO of the SGHT, said: “When the original Hope Cross was replaced on South Georgia back in 2021, the opportunity arose to share it with the public beyond the sub-Antarctic island’s 15,000 annual visitors.

“We at SGHT and the South Georgia Museum are thrilled that the Hope Cross can be cared for as part of the Discovery Point collection in Dundee, with all of its links to Sir Ernest Shackleton.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for many people to encounter the cross and be inspired by the love and loyalty to ‘The Boss’ that caused it to be created and erected by his crew in his memory.

“We’re grateful to GSGSSI, DHT and to BAS for helping to preserve this iconic piece of Shackleton’s legacy, and hope that the public take this chance to see the cross and support its preservation.”

Emma Halford-Forbes, heritage and exhibitions director at DHT said: “We’re pleased to welcome the Hope Cross to Dundee this year and display it to a UK audience for the first time.

“Looking forwards, we have exciting plans for a capital redevelopment of Discovery Point, including a new permanent polar exhibition, Drawn to the Pole.

“Our plan is to display the Hope Cross as part of this new gallery, to make it accessible to a wider audience and create a respectful and reflective opportunity to pause and remember not just Shackleton, but all past Antarctic explorers.”

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'Yellowstone' and 'The White Lotus' inspiring luxe summer vacations, 'set-jetting' trend

'set-jetting' is when travelers choose their destinations based on their favorite tv shows or movies.

FOX Business Flash top headlines for May 17

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The "set-jetting" trend in tourism is driving travelers to choose vacation destinations based on their favorite television shows, including the Montana mountains seen in the Kevin Costner-led "Yellowstone" and the sandy beaches of Maui featured in the first season of "The White Lotus." 

According to Adam Duckworth, president and founder of Travelmation , "Set-jetting is a hot travel trend where travelers are building trips around their favorite TV shows or movies.  This trend has exploded over the past year, thanks to the extreme popularity of shows like ‘Yellowstone’ and ‘The White Lotus.'" 

Expedia’s Unpack ’24 Study surveyed 20,000 people, and more than half of the participants in the study said they researched a potential travel destination after seeing it on a television show.

Travelers participating in the study mentioned they get vacation inspiration from television shows over social media or travel agencies.

Kevin Costner's "Yellowstone" and Jennifer Coolidge's "The White Lotus" have helped spark the "set-jetting" travel trend. (Getty Images / Getty Images)

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Below are some hot travel destinations that have been highlighted on major television shows.

Montana, ‘Yellowstone’

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The Washington Post reported in 2023 that the Bureau of Business and Economic Research and the University of Montana’s Institute for Tourism & Recreation Research's study showed that 2 million tourists said "Yellowstone" inspired them to visit Montana in 2021.

Lucy Beighle, communications director for Glacier Country Tourism of Western Montana, told The Washington Post, "We definitely have seen an uptick in interest because of ‘Yellowstone .’ If Montana wasn’t already on the map, and if people have seen ‘Yellowstone,’ it certainly is now."

A snapshot of Yellowstone National Park in 2022. (Samuel Wilson-Pool/Getty Images / Getty Images)

Hawaii and Italy - ‘The White Lotus’

There has been an increase in interest among families looking to vacation in Maui, Hawaii and Sicily, Italy. According to Duckworth, "The White Lotus" is largely responsible for the spike in travelers to those locations.

Murray Bartlett, Sydney Sweeney, Natasha Rothwell, Steve Zahn, Jennifer Coolidge, Alexandra Daddario, Mike White and Connie Britton starred in "The White Lotus." (Frazer Harrison/Getty Images / Getty Images)

"White Lotus has sparked the most interest with travelers," he explained. "Fans of the show want to experience the luxury of the resorts they are seeing on their screens. The first season was filmed at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, and the second season took place at the Four Seasons San Domenico Palace." 

Four Seasons hotels might be a little pricey for someone looking to get "The White Lotus" experience. 

"We've booked White Lotus fans at nearby hotels so they can still experience the beautiful scenery and destinations," Duckworth said. "Fans are willing to do whatever it takes to immerse themselves in these lavish worlds."

Wailea beach on Maui, Hawaii. (Getty Images / Getty Images)

Panoramic view of Taormina, Italy.  (Santi Visalli/Getty Images / Getty Images)

According to Expedia, the travel agency saw a 300% increase in travel to Hawaii and Sicily, Italy, after the first two seasons of the hit show was released on HBO.

According to National Geographic, fans have the opportunity to stay in Jennifer Coolidge's exact room that appeared on the show if they ask for the "Royal Suite."

According to Deadline , season 3 of the hit series will be filmed in Thailand, specifically in or around Koh Samui, Phuket and Bangkok and begin filming in February. Duckworth says Travelmation is expecting to see an increase in travel to Thailand after the season is released. 

Sydney Sweeney also starred in "White Lotus." (Don Arnold/WireImage / Getty Images)

"Season 3 will take place in Thailand, and we are getting ready for a huge increase in travel to that part of the world when the next season drops," Duckworth said.

"My top tip: Book that trip to Thailand now," Duckworth added. "We predict ‘White Lotus’ fans will drive up prices as demand increases."

Deadline noted the next season is expected in 2025. 

Scotland, ‘Outlander’

Travelmation's travel adviser, Kristin Peterson, traveled to Scotland to immerse herself in the world that was showcased throughout the "Outlander" seasons. 

"Scotland is the iconic destination for Outlander fans. I have even done this trip myself," Peterson said. "The obvious first stop is getting to Midhope Castle, but there are so many ways to experience the show in real life." 

Caitriona Balfe starred as Claire Randall and Sam Heughan as Jamie Fraser on "Outlander." (Randy Brooke/FilmMagic / Getty Images)

Peterson added her recommendations for eager "Outlander" fans trying to get the most out of their Scotland vacation. 

"I recommend walking the battlefield of Culloden, entering the drawbridge of Linlithgow Palace and, most importantly, going over the sea to Skye. These will certainly put the show front and center to the 'set-jetting' traveler," Peterson said. "Exploring standing stone circles, walking through fields of purple heather and thistle, and, of course, wearing a kilt add so much more dimension to the story. It’s the perfect destination for fans from all over the world." 

Famous stone circle in Scotland. (Getty Images / Getty Images)

According to the National Trust for Scotland Foundation, "Outlander" had a major impact on tourism to Scotland in the pre-pandemic era.

"The ‘Outlander Effect’ inspired an increase in tourism to Scotland, with fans of the story traveling to visit the real-life historic sites and landscapes that feature prominently in Gabaldon’s story," the foundation shared.

Paris, ‘Emily in Paris’

"Emily in Paris" fans have been flocking to France since its season 1 release on Netflix in 2020. In the show, a neighborhood bistro named Les Deux Compères is prominently featured. In real life, the restaurant is called Terra Nera.

The Terra Nera restaurant in Paris. (Edward Berthelot/Getty Images / Getty Images)

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The restaurant's Instagram account highlights fans flying in from all over the world to take a photo in front of its famed entrance to the building.

The fourth season of "Emily in Paris" will debut on Netflix this fall. 

"When that next season drops later this year, we will absolutely have clients asking to see these stunning locations firsthand," Duckworth explained.

Expedia's Unpack '24 study saw a 200% increase in searches for Paris after "Emily in Paris" debuted season 3.

Lily Collins starred in the title role in "Emily in Paris." (Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Netflix / Getty Images)

England, ‘The Crown’

The Telegraph reported about a study done by Barclays in 2017 about the effect "The Crown" had on travel to England. 

Olivia Colman portrayed Queen Elizabeth II in "The Crown." (Netflix / Fox News)

At the time, Barclays interviewed 10,000 travelers, and one-fifth of them admitted the television series based on the late Queen Elizabeth's life influenced them to choose England for their next vacation.

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The study showed a 63% increase in international tourists to England compared to recent years.

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Euro 2024: How to follow England and Scotland in Germany this summer – and what to do in each city

Some bargain flights are still available – if you are prepared to fly into neighbouring countries, article bookmarked.

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The stage is set for Europe ’s summer festival of football: the Euro 2024 finals in Germany . We now know all the teams who have qualified for the continent’s greatest football tournament, and when and where they will play their opening matches.

England and Scotland qualified emphatically. Sadly, Wales went out on penalties to Poland, who along with Georgia and Ukraine were last to qualify.

Euro 2024 kicks off in Munich on Friday 14 June and ends with the final in Berlin on Sunday 14 July.

Many fans will want to travel to Germany. Whether you are planning a midsummer’s dream trip to support your team or just want to soak up the atmosphere, these are the key questions and answers.

The venues?

• Berlin Olympiastadion (capacity 70,000)
• Munich Football Arena (67,000)
• Dortmund BVB Stadion (66,000)
• Stuttgart Arena (54,000)
• Gelsenkirchen Arena AufSchalke (50.000)
• Hamburg Volksparkstadion (50,000)
• Cologne Stadium (47,000)
• Dusseldorf Arena (47,000)
• Frankfurt Arena (46,000)
• Leipzig Stadium (42,000)

Read more on Europe travel :

• Where to visit in Cyprus for a 2024 holiday
• Why I chose Marseille over Paris for the Olympic Games
• The best kids’ club resorts in Europe

Where and when are Scotland’s group-stage games?

14 June v Germany in Munich (the tournament’s opening match)

19 June v Switzerland in Cologne

23 June v Hungary in Stuttgart

Where and when are England’s group-stage games?

16 June v Serbia in Gelsenkirchen

20 June v Denmark in Frankfurt

25 June v Slovenia in Cologne

What are the basic travel mechanics?

Fortunately for supporters of England and Scotland, all the games – except for the opening match between Germany and Scotland in Munich – are in western Germany.

For Cologne, where England will play Slovenia and Scotland will play Switzerland, surface travel looks best: ideally a Eurostar train from London to Brussels and a connection from there.

But it will be much cheaper for groups of supporters to go by road. Many people will take cars across, and the Dover-Dunkirk or Harwich-Hook of Holland ferries are probably best – though Newcastle to Amsterdam and Hull to Rotterdam are also feasible, if expensive.

There’s a wide choice of flights on budget airlines from across England and Scotland to Germany , but they won’t be low-cost during the tournament for key games. It could be smart to fly to somewhere close to Germany instead.

For example, to reach Gelsenkirchen, the venue for England’s first game against Serbia, Eindhoven in the Netherlands is an option. Remarkably, for those flying out on 15 June and returning on 17 June, Ryanair has flights between London Stansted and Eindhoven for £15 each way.

For Scotland’s game against Hungary on 23 June in Stuttgart, you could fly on easyJet from Edinburgh to Basel in Switzerland and get a cheap train from there; out on 21 June, back on 24 June is currently £184 return.

Will travelling around the host nation be easy?

Yes, because German Railways has a vast, high-density network, with low fares if you don’t take the fastest expresses.

There is no real need to book anything in advance – you can buy tickets on the day. The network will feel the strain on match days, but trains will be supplemented by long-distance coaches.

If you’re driving your own car, the autobahns will be busy – and you will also find parking in cities and near venues difficult.

All ticket holders will get 36 hours of free local transport around each match.

Which brings us to the thorny question of tickets...

All group-match tickets have been sold, and the Uefa resale platform has now closed. The organisers say “There will be no further opportunities to resell tickets.”

But many tickets for the knock-out stages have been held back, and will go back on sale from 23 June onwards. Uefa says: “Tickets reserved for knockout-stage matches will be sold during the tournament upon the qualification of the teams for the respective matches.”

Tickets for the Round of 16 matches involving successful teams in Scotland’s group should go on sale from 9pm BST on 23 June, and England’s group from 9pm BST on 25 June.

Or you can settle for the fan zones – which will be in attractive locations such as Cologne’s old town, the Altstadt.

What about accommodation?

Unlike Paris, where hotel rates are steadily falling ahead of the Olympic Games , demand for rooms in and near host venues is rising – along with prices. For many fans, Germany is extremely accessible.

In Cologne, on the night of Scotland’s group game against Switzerland (19 June), many properties are sold out, and basic budget hotel rooms are selling for £400.

But you can save approximately half the cost by booking in Dusseldorf, about 20 minutes by train from Cologne. Go further, to Aachen (less than an hour away), and rates halve again.

While many Berlin hotels are sold out on the night of the final, a very good hotel room in Leipzig (the Amano Home ) is only €79 (£69) on the night of the final, with trains taking 75 minutes to reach the German capital.

Is it worth waiting until the knockout stages?

Quite possibly. A valid strategy is to do nothing now and see if England and Scotland progress beyond the group stage. From then onwards, everything becomes easier – pressure on transport and accommodation eases because lots of fans sadly go home.

Over the four-day spell of the Round of 16, from 29 June to 2 July, could be the prime time to be in Germany.

And, if you are feeling optimistic, you could even book a cheap flight to Berlin for the final on 14 July. Ryanair is currently selling flights on 11 July, returning on 16 July, for just £137 from Edinburgh to the German capital.

What shall I do between the matches?

This guide focuses on the England and Scotland host cities, in order of their matches. But the best of the rest will follow.

Munich (Scotland v Germany, 14 June)

The Bavarian capital is the favourite German city of many travellers. The Altstadt, the old town, has the beautiful Marienplatz – dominated by the neo-Gothic Neues Rathaus (new town hall), which stretches across its northern side. Shortly before 11am and noon each day, crowds gather for a glockenspiel performance that features a Bavarian knight beating a French challenger in a jousting tournament. For the best view of Munich (and, on a clear day, the Bavarian Alps), visit the tower of St Peter’s Church, just south.

Eat and drink

Warm summer evenings will mainly be spent on cafe terraces and in beer gardens, but the state-owned Hofbrauhaus is well worth visiting for the dizzying choreography of the well-attired waiting staff and the conviviality of the location – augmented from time to time with all the oompah you would expect from a Bavarian band.

Gelsenkirchen (England v Serbia, 16 June)

The Ruhr is off many tourists’ itineraries, but the former coal and steel hub for Germany’s economic and military might is fascinating. Gelsenkirchen itself is actually little more than a northern suburb of Essen (don’t show this to any locals). The industrial archaeology is remarkable, with much of the former Zollverein coal mine handed back to nature – and visitors. You can clamber, carefully, around this Unesco-listed gem. And the German Football Museum is just minutes away in Dortmund (see below).

Essen in central Essen: it is difficult to go wrong, but I like the Pfefferkorn Essen. South of the city centre, Il Pomodoro is a reliable Italian.

Cologne (Scotland v Switzerland, 19 June; England v Slovenia, 25 June)

Cologne is a city designed for walking. Start by climbing the bell tower of the dom (cathedral); the 509 steps are challenging, though you can pause halfway up to admire the glocken (bells). From the public gallery at a height of 97m, you get a fine view of the old town – and some ungainly modern buildings that were erected after the Second World War, in which 90 per cent of the city was destroyed. The Museum Ludwig, adjacent to the dom , celebrates modern art by the likes of Dali and Warhol. For 19th-century works and earlier, the Wallraf-Richartz-Museum is a dramatic modern structure.

Eating, drinking and shopping are the main interests of the locals in what is arguably Germany’s friendliest big city. The local Kolsch beer – light and well hopped – will cheer even losing fans. The tastiest brand is Gaffel, whose home ground is the Gaffel Haus on Alter Markt. But the atmosphere is even more convivial at the Brauhaus Sion, which also serves up sauerbraten : beef marinated for what seems like months, which melts in your mouth in minutes.

Frankfurt (England v Denmark, 20 June)

Europe’s financial hub is far more rewarding than you might imagine. It has a traditionally restored old town, complete with the chance to ascend the tower of St Bartholomew’s (location for medieval coronations of holy Roman emperors), though with some questionable 1960s embellishments. Among the wealth of attractions in this wealthy city: Goethe’s House, where the national poet was born in 1749.

Goethe could have been talking to football fans when he wrote: “If you’ve never eaten while crying you don’t know what life tastes like.” Cross one of the bridges to go south of the Main and sample ebbelwei – apple wine, a cousin of cider – in Ebbelwoi Unser, where you can also dine on sausage, dumplings and sauerkraut.

Stuttgart (Scotland v Hungary, 23 June)

The capital of Baden-Wurttemberg, a big, prosperous southwestern state, feels different from many other German cities: with hilly surroundings and a sense of space, it is a location for getting out and about. Top attraction: the Mercedes-Benz Museum. But if you want to be alone after the match, try Schloss Solitude, just west of the city.

Could this be Germany’s most amazing bar? Jigger & Spoon is a modern take on the speakeasy bar, two floors below the city streets in the vault of a bank, which you reach by going into the office block at Gymnasiumstrasse 33 and taking the lift down two floors. Somehow it includes a cigar lounge. For dinner, the Stuttgart Rathskeller in the basement of the city hall is unbeatable.

Best of the rest – Simon Calder’s top recommendation for each of the other host cities

The wall may have come down in 1989, but 35 years on, the scars of the division of the German capital are still evident. The Palace of Tears at Friedrichstrasse railway station, where people checked out of East Germany to the West, is now a museum, and provides a profoundly emotional experience.

Controversy drags on about England’s third goal in the 1966 World Cup Final: the German Football Museum even has a special investigation into the linesman’s questionable decision against West Germany, using an interactive media station. Unsurprisingly, there is rather more focus on the occasions when German players won the Weltmeisterschaft (in 1954, 1974, 1990 and 2014).

The Church of St Nicholas was built in 1874 by the great British architect Gilbert Scott. It was devastated during the Second World War by Allied bombers, but the spire survived and remains one of Europe’s tallest church structures. The crypt contains a small museum commemorating the wartime destruction of Hamburg and the victims of the Third Reich. Nearby, visit Altona Fischmark, the ornate fish market where The Beatles used to breakfast after their all-night shows on the Reeperbahn.

One of Germany’s most rewarding cities owes much of its beauty to the Rhine; a riverside highway is now confined to a tunnel. Take the Weisse Flotte €20 Panorama-Fahrt (no sniggering, please) to appreciate the setting and learn more about the monuments.

In this fine East German city, do mention the Cold War. The Zeitgeschictliches Forum focuses on four decades of state communism. You are taken through the whole sorry story, from the Nazi era via the postwar carve-up of Germany decided in Potsdam, and spy cameras disguised as cigarette packets, to the night in 1989 when the Berlin Wall came down.

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Scotland Tour -Highlands and Skye 7 Day Tour

This 7 day journey is an incredible introduction to Scotland. Visit iconic sites, experience the fabulous scenery of our National Parks, Glencoe Mountain Range, Culloden Battlefied, Loch Ness and awe inspiring Skye. A lifetime of memories awaits.

Travel Itinerary- PRIVATE GROUPS MAX 7 PERSONS

Highland and Skye 7 day Tour 2024

7 days/6 nights Travel Itinerary

DAY 1: DOUNE CASTLE, BLAIR ATHOL DISTILLERY & PITLOCHRY

Your adventure begins with a tour of Doune Castle. Few castles can boast thecelebrity status of Doune, near Stirling - built in the late 14th century, it achievedfame having been featured in the famous Monty Python film, ‘The Holy Grail’. Morerecently, it has also featured in T.V.s ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘Outlander’. We thentravel to the quaint Victorian village of Pitlochry in ancient Perthshire for your first Malt Whisky experience as you enjoy a tour and tasting session at the famous Blair Athol Distillery. Finally, enjoy a stroll around Pitlochry’s traditional shops and craft stores before arriving at your hotel.

DAY 2: CAIRNGORM NATIONAL PARKS & CULLODEN

Enjoy the scenic journey through Cairngorms National Park, with its stunning mountains and ancient Caledonian Pine Forests. You’ll visit Culloden Battlefield & visitor centre and learn about Bonnie PrinceCharlie who, with his Jacobite Army, fought the last civil war on British soil in 1746. Culloden is also now another “Outlander” location with scenes being filmed at the real battlefield. Our next stop, Clava Cairns and Standing Stones, is a well-preserved Bronze-Age cairn and an incredible example of the historic architecture of the Highlands, dating back about 4,000 years. There will be free time to explore Inverness before heading to your hotel

DAY 3: EILEAN DONAN & LOCH NESS

Today we head for Skye - “The Misty Isle”, travelling through the village of Fort Augustus on the shores of Loch Ness then beautiful Glenshiel . We’ll visit one of Scotland’s most picturesque castles, Eilean Donan, which sits on its own small island at the head of Loch Duich. With a fascinating history, from raids and sieges to its destruction during the Jacobite rising in 1719, there will be plenty of opportunity for photographs of this breathtaking castle. After lunch, we go over the bridge to Skye and head straight for the Talisker Distillery where you’ll learn how this world class Malt is created and enjoy a dram or two before checking in to your hotel.

DAY 4: ISLE OF SKYE

Wake to the excitement of a day exploring the splendid scenery of the Isle of Skye. Touring the island, we pass through Broadford and the Cuillin Mountains to explore the capital of Portree which has an old-fashioned appeal with colourful houses and a traditional harbour. We’ll then explore the north of the island and the Trotternish Peninsula with it’s fabulous scenery and seascapes including The Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock Falls and the spectacularly bizarre scenery of the Quiraing. We’ll finish a memorable day at the famous Fairy Pools (weather permitting).

DAY 5: Skye Ferry, Glenfinnan Viaduct and Monument, Fort William

We’ll take the famous Skye boat to the harbour town of Mallaig then head along side Loch Morar, with wonderful views across the Sound of Arisaig to the Small Isles. After lunch, we reach the Glenfinnan monument on the shores of Loch Shiel which marks the spot where the 1745 Jacobite Rising began. This is also a great viewpoint for the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a renowned feat of Victorian engineering and known more recently for being featured as the famous bridge crossed by the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. The day ends with a visit to Ben Nevis Distillery, situated at the foot of the largest mountain in Scotland

DAY 6: Fort William, Loch Linnhe & Glencoe

Experience the Glencoe Mountain Range - we’ll stop for pictures of the famous ‘Three Sisters’ and hear stories of the historical significance and violent past of this famous Glen culminating in the massacre of Glencoe in 1692. Returning to Fort William, you’ll enjoy lunch and then visit the local museum with its fascinating artefacts. In the afternoon, get close to Lochaber’s wild heart on an enthralling boat tour. You’ll cruise down Loch Linnhe to see the local seal colony and take in the magnificent views on every side. Heading back, you’ll hopefully catch sight of the local dolphin pod. Look out for eagles as we head to the narrows of Loch Eil, and then on to the mouth of the world famous Caledonian Canal

DAY 7: Inverary Castle and Loch Lomond

This morning we make for Clan Campbell country to visit one of Scotland’s finest stately homes,Inveraray Castle & Gardens, a stunning building still owned by the Duke of Argyll and in recent times featured in the TV series Downton Abbey. We then head over the ‘Rest and Be Thankful’ mountain pass stopping for some photographs at this beautiful and atmospheric landmark before continuing into Scotland’s first National Park. We’ll stop on the ‘bonnie banks’ of Loch Lomond and walk the shores at the conservation village of Luss., We may even spot the odd Highland Cow !! It’s then time to head to your Glasgow or Edinburgh City Centre hotel, and the conclusion of your Top Scottish Tour.

Included in your Top Scottish Tour:

Your personal tour coordinator

3 star minimum, handpicked accommodation

All rooms en-suite

Full Scottish Breakfast each morning

Reservation service for all other meals as required

Entry into all named attractions

Exclusive use of a luxury touring vehicle for your party

Your personal driver/tour guide

TEL 07543105520

EMAIL: [email protected]

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January — December

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Top scottish tours.

We specialise in small private group and family tours (max 7 guests) across Scotland and the Isles. Our focus is on our guests and their needs whilst they focus on having unforgettable experiences whilst exploring our beautiful country. Stunning scenery, wildlife, historical sites, clans and castles, hiking, golf, whisky distilleries....whatever your interests or passions, Top Scottish Tours gaurantees you a truly personal tailor made itinery that will provide lifelong special memories. First class tours delivered by us, adventures driven by you!

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The top 10 global travel destinations to explore in June-July 2024

If you are seeking adventure beyond borders, here are the top 10 global destinations for your summer breaks that will offer unique experiences for travellers. here are some of the best places to visit during june-july 2024..

10 global travel destinations to explore in June – July 2024: Summer is a popular time for travel, with June and July being two of the busiest months. The weather is warm in most parts of the world, making it ideal for outdoor activities, beach vacations, and sightseeing. Many schools are also on summer break, allowing families to take longer trips.

While many travellers choose domestic destinations for their summer getaways, there is a growing trend towards exploring international locations. “ We are seeing more international trips from India than at any other time in history. About ten years ago, to see the numbers that we are seeing for travel in just the last three months, it would have taken a full year to achieve this,” shares David Mann, Chief Economist for Asia Pacific at Mastercard, in a recent report by the Mastercard Economics Institute.

If you are seeking adventure beyond borders, here are the top 10 global destinations for your summer break s that will offer unique experiences for travellers. Here are some of the best places to visit during this time.

1. Biarritz, France

One of the best travel destinations all year around, France holds the most perfect holiday spot for you in the form of Biarritz. Known for its beautiful beaches and eccentric lifestyle, Biarritz is also home to the oldest surfing spots in Europe. During June and July, the city maintains a temperature between 15 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy.

2. Devon, England

Witness a sunshine-filled city in England during June and July; Devon is the destination you want to be. Filled with beaches, fishing villages, and even multiple spots for hiking, Devon provides you with many activities to choose from. The city maintains a temperature between 10 degrees Celsius minimum and 19 degrees Celsius maximum, which gives you a relaxing environment along with maintaining the essence of England intact.

3. Dolomites, Italy

Home to snow-covered slopes, sky-high mountains, and multiple other picturesque destinations, the Dolomites in Italy have become one of the best destinations for people who love cold and mountains. Notably, despite being covered with snow, the highest temperature in the city goes up to 20 degrees Celcius, which prevents it from becoming painfully cold and allows you to make the most of your stay.

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

Despite being a small city, Copenhagen is one of the best places to visit if your style of enjoyment is eating and drinking. As eating is the city’s favourite pastime, they also like to start their happy hours a little early, at 4 p.m. The town also offers a party-like nightlife, making Copenhagen a must-visit tourist attraction during the summer.

5. Corsica, France

If you are making a list of global travel destinations, you cannot keep a place that is nicknamed the Island of Beauty off the list. Despite being in France, the Corsica island offers you Italy like the summer sun, which makes this island even more exotic. The island and all the modern-day facilities also allow you to enjoy some old-school picnic spots, adding more flair to your already awesome vacation.

6. Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos is known for its long nightlife, where you can enjoy every night party with DJs and dancing, and at the same time, it has the perfect spots to start your day, which takes away all your last-night fatigue in no time. If you are someone who loves history, you can even ferry yourself to Dolos, which is one of the most sought-after archaeological sites in Greece.

7. Quebec, Canada

Canada is one of the most common travel destinations for everyone, but its extremely cold weather prevents people from opting for it. However, there is one solution to this problem: Quebec. The city in June and July enjoys a temperature of 12 degrees Celsius, from a minimum to a maximum of 20 degrees Celsius, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful culture of Canada without being scared of its cold climate.

8. Hudson Valley, USA

The Hudson Valley is the perfect escape from the busy city life that nature can offer. It acts as a charming town, standing amongst stunning scenery all around, and all that is just a short trip from New York City. If you love history, you can journey back in time at West Point Academy or explore the fascinating legacy of presidents like Roosevelt at his grand estate. Hudson Valley is a haven for fresh, farm-to-table meals, delicious local wines, and exciting craft brewery tours, which is just the cherry on top of your trip.

9. Edinburgh, Scotland

For the festival enthusiast, Edinburgh is a dream-come-true destination. From the world’s largest performing arts festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, to the prestigious film and military tattoo festivals, there’s always a vibrant celebration to immerse yourself in. Unleash your inner art lover at the National Gallery of Scotland, or delve into Scottish history through portraits at the National Portrait Gallery. The city provides a variety of options to choose from, making your visit more exciting.

10. Seychelles

For those who like to relax in luxury, the Seychelles offers several lodging spots in between all the breathtaking scenery. But the real magic lies in exploring the islands themselves, as there are 115 to choose from, each with its unique charm, and you can discover secluded coves, vibrant cultures, and a rich Creole heritage that makes your trip to this small island even more blissful.

”Absolutely not. We are under no pressure. There is no question of it. In fact, we have applied a stringent section… we have applied Section 304 of IPC relating to culpable homicide not amounting to murder…,” the police chief told The Indian Express .

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