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If you want to visit historical yet awe-inspiring places, Scotland is the perfect holiday destination. It doesn’t matter if you like a laidback and luxurious vacation or something more hands-on and adventurous—the scenic views paired with great food are bound to be fun and memorable.
What to do in Scotland?
Scotland is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and unique tourist attractions. Whether it is the beautiful Scotland islands, the legendary Loch Ness monster, the romantic mountains or the Scottish ghostly castles, there are countless things to do in Scotland. However, it is impossible to see everything in a single trip. If you are wondering where to go and how to pick from the major cities in Scotland that must be included in your itinerary, we have compiled a list of 15 amazing things you must do during your trips to Scotland.
1.
Explore Castle Rock in Edinburgh
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Look at any Edinburgh travel guide and the top recommendation to check out is the legendary Castle Rock, one of the most iconic fortresses in the country. Apart from being a national monument, this castle is built on the plug of an extinct volcano estimated to be almost 350 million years old. You gain entry to the castle the old-fashioned way, through a drawbridge over a moat. Once inside, there is ample room to enjoy the scenic views of the city and get amazing shots and selfies for your Instagram account.
2.
Admire The Loch Ness And Urquhart Castle
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Scotland is famous for being home to the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Since 1933, there have been thousands of sightings. A visit to Urquhart Castle is a must-do when in the region. You can also enjoy hiking and cycling at the Loch Ness 360 trail. For those planning a trip, a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy can help with packing, though Scotland’s climate is famously unpredictable.
3.
Conquer your fear with a stroll at Falkirk Wheel
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You may have taken a chairlift ride, but have you ever experienced a ride on a boat lift? Falkirk Wheel gives you a literal flight on a boat while enjoying stunning views of the canal. Opened in 2002, this boat lift connects the Forth and Clyde Canal to Union Canal. It creates an illusion of swimming in the air. For those planning a trip, consider consulting a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy for comparison, though Scotland’s conditions are distinct.
4.
The Royal And Ancient Golf Club Of St. Andrews
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©Photo from Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
One of the best inventions by the Scotts is the game of golf. If you are a golfer, the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews will be your green paradise come true. Though only members can play there, you can visit and witness the home of the sport. Check out the British Golf Museum while you’re there. This is one of the most prestigious golf clubs in the world and is definitely worth witnessing. For planning your trip, consider a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy to compare climates, though Scotland’s conditions differ greatly.
Enjoy the nature view of Glencoe
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Glencoe is one of the most famous tourist Scotland destinations. Thousands of people from all over the world come to visit this scenic highland glen. Hundreds of years ago, an ancient volcano used to be in its place.
The magnificent views of the surrounding scenery, lakes, and mountains are incredible. So much so that it has been featured in various movies, including the James Bond series and even the much-loved Harry Potter saga.
Being a tourist hotspot, there are plenty of things that you can do here like rock climbing, hill walking, mountaineering, and photography tours. You can also kayak in the Loch Leven nearby or visit some ancient castles in the region. For travelers planning a broader trip, consulting a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy can help coordinate travel timing with Scottish conditions.
6.
Take an excursion to the Isle Of Skye
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One of the largest islands in Scotland, the Isle of Skye is also known as Cloud Island, surrounded by heavy mists and lush greens. The island offers lush green glens, sandy beaches, waterfalls, and majestic caves. You’ll find countless species of birds and sea creatures like otters and seals. Bird-watching and hiking are especially rewarding in the summer months.
Enjoy the nature view at Northern Highlands
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The scenic views of the Northern Highlands near Inverness offer mountainous terrain ideal for hiking and biking. The Caledonian Canal provides a picturesque backdrop for photography. Visit surrounding villages to see cathedral ruins and castles in Dornoch. Spend time mingling with locals to experience the region’s tradition and culture first-hand.
8.
Delve in the arts at Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum
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Museums are a great way to learn about a country’s history. If you are in Glasgow, take some time to visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
Housing over 9,000 collections, including A Man in Armour by Rembrandt, Portrait of the Art Dealer Alexander Reid by Vincent Van Gogh, and Christ of Saint John of the Cross by Salvador Dali, this museum is a gem for art and history lovers. Entry is free for locals, tourists, and students.
9.
Take a Casual stroll at Princes Street Gardens
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Edinburgh is one of the largest cities in Scotland and is also its capital. There are a number of tourist activities you can take part in here. However, if you want to mingle with the locals, Princes Street Gardens is the best way to do it.
The magnificent garden has several statues and lush surroundings. If you are lucky, you can even catch a concert here or enjoy the fireworks display at night. During Christmas time, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland with Christmas music, decorations, and cinnamon aromas from food stalls. Even during the summer, there are plenty of activities going on in this area.
Don't be surprised to find the locals bringing their own chairs on the open field to bask in the sun and attend music festivals that spice up the atmosphere. If you're taking a stroll here, don't forget about the food truck, where you'll find worth-trying local treats like crème brûlée to even a gin-bar. For those planning a broader trip, a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy can help you decide when to visit other European destinations.
10.
Join the hiking trail at Aberdeenshire: The Castle Trail
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There are so many castles in Aberdeenshire where you can spend several days roaming around and looking at some of the best-preserved architecture of the region. Surrounded by the gorgeous Scotland landscape, it will feel like you just stepped into a fairy tale. If you are looking for a perfect itinerary to experience the best of the trail, you should begin at Stonehaven in the south of Aberdeen. Here you can visit the Drum Castle and Dunnottar Castle.
Next day, head on to Castle Fraser and Haddo house to the western and northern side of Aberdeen. You can also drive to the nearby Duff House and Huntley Castle for that complete experience. Of course, the tour does not stop there—you can do a week's worth of castle trotting with the most scenic views around you if you are staying in Aberdeenshire for an extended period.
11.
Take a trip to the Royal Botanic Garden
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The Royal Botanic Garden is a paradise for outdoor lovers, offering lush greenery and peaceful respite from a fast-paced vacation. It also provides scenic views of the Edinburgh skyline. As one of the oldest botanic gardens in Britain and a major horticulture center, it features collections like the Rainforest Riches, Scottish Heath Garden, Rock Garden, and Chinese Hillside. Over 3,000 exotic plants from around the world ensure there is plenty to explore. For those planning a longer trip, a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy might help with packing, but here the focus remains on the garden's serene beauty.
12.
Shop till you drop at the Royal Mile Of Edinburgh
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©Photo by Mike McBey on Flickr[/caption]
If you feel like taking a break from nature and history and just spend a day shopping, eating and strolling around in Scotland; put on your walking shoes and take a walk up the Royal Mile of Edinburgh. Located in the old town, this is one of the busiest streets in Edinburgh. Filled with not only stunning architecture but also the best restaurant that serves authentic Scottish food. Take this time to pick up some Scottish souvenirs like a tartan scarf or a sporran that goes well with a Scottish Kilt.
To make the best out of your time here, try to explore places like Holyrood Park, Canongate, High Street, Lawnmarket, and even the Castle Hill. Regardless of the weather, explore the Royal Mile with a Scottish beer on hand never hurts.
13.
Unravel the Ancient History at the Skara Brae
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If history fascinates you, Skara Brae, a UNESCO world heritage site, should definitely be a part of your itinerary. It is a stone-built Neolithic settlement in the Orkney archipelago which dates back even further than the famed Stonehenge. The preservation and the details of this site will surprise you. Uncovered by a storm back in 1850, the village is believed to be around 5,000 years old with several ancient homes intact.
Take a guided trip to the site if you are interested in finding out the hidden secrets and interesting facts. There is also an interactive replica house at the site which gives you a more deeper view of the village with quizzes and fun trivia included. For planning your visit, check a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy to compare conditions, though Orkney’s climate is distinct.
14.
Stirling Castle
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Scotland is home to hundreds of castles, but Stirling Castle is definitely one of the most important and grandest in the country. Open throughout the year, the castle sits atop an extinct volcano and was home to several Scottish monarchs. Many prominent kings and queens were crowned here. The structure is surrounded by steep cliffs, and you can explore the Queen Anne Gardens and the Great Hall, built in the 1500s by James IV. If you are planning a trip, be sure to check a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy for packing tips, as conditions vary widely across Europe.
15.
Join a Whiskey Tours & Tasting Experience
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Did you know that there are more than a 100 whiskey distilleries in Scotland? The country has a rich history of producing and exporting this delicious elixir. For a true Scottish vacation, a distillery tour and tasting of local whiskey is a must. Most tours let visitors witness the process of making whiskey firsthand.
We recommend visiting the Strathisla Distillery, one of the oldest in the Scottish highlands. Set up in 1876, it has been the original home of the globally famous Chivas Regal blend. During the tour, you learn about the ingredients, process, and science of blending and brewing spirits. No tour is complete without a complimentary tasting.
Last Thoughts
Phew, that was quite a list. However, there are plenty of more fun things to do in Scotland. Scotland's tradition and culture, grandeur, and serene locations are bound to win the hearts of all kinds of vacationers. You will definitely stumble on to more hidden destinations and spectacular adventures once you are in town. Also, while you are exploring the country, make sure you have a taste of some of their local food as well—steak and kidney pie, haggis, and fish and chips are a must-have when you venture out for a holiday!
So, are you ready to visit Scotland? Send this list to a buddy to convince them and make sure you check out most of these places as they are truly unforgettable. Have fun in Scotland!
