Few places in the UK set fire to the imagination like Scotland. Occupying the northern third of Great Britain, this mystical and rugged land has played an important role in the history, politics, and religion of the country. Its cultural influences including the Celtic tradition, tartan kilts, and musical instruments like the pipe and drum are as characteristically Scottish as the brogue that identifies the ancient language. Modern Scotland is a land of contemporary cities where you can find leading centres in research, technology, and education. Dramatic landscapes including the Scottish Highlands, Northern Isles and Hebrides are throwbacks to a land that time forgot, giving to us some of the most aesthetic scenery the UK has to offer. Compiling a concise list of best places to visit in Scotland is not easy, but we present to you some standouts sure to inspire most intrepid travellers.
Best places to visit in Scotland
When it comes to visiting places in Scotland, the peak season is always summer, but the spring and autumn are far less crowded with cheaper accommodations. Regardless of the season, the weather in Scotland tends to be on the cool side, so pack a few jumpers, scarves, gloves, and a warm jacket, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.
Edinburgh
- Seasonal average high temperatures (°C): Spring: 14.8; Summer: 18.4; Autumn: 10.2; Winter: 8.3
- Distance from Edinburgh Turnhouse Airport to Edinburgh Waverley Station: by train: about 40min, by car approx. 9 miles
Edinburgh’s strategic position as the gateway between the Scottish Lowlands and Scottish Highlands is a tantalising historical reference point. The city’s fortifications are among the finest in the kingdom and its political influence has left behind several fascinating places of interest. Edinburgh Castle sits as the undisputed king of all attractions and is revered as one of Scotland’s most cherished symbols, evoking the spirit of a nation. Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Edinburgh Art Festival, and the Edinburgh Military Tattoo are massive cultural events on the cultural calendar. You can find other Edinburgh visiting places, restaurants, day trips ideas, and accommodations by browsing our Edinburgh Travel Guide.
Glasgow
- Seasonal average high temperatures (°C): Spring, 15; Summer, 18.6; Autumn, 10; Winter, 8.2
- Distance from Glasgow Airport (GLA) to Glasgow Central Station: by train, about 20min; by car, approx. 10 miles
Scotland’s most populated city played a major role in the Scottish Enlightenment and is the seat of one of the finest research universities in the UK. Glasgow’s massive shipbuilding works created the Titanic, and today the city is a leading centre in engineering and textile manufacturing. George Square vibrates the civic pulse of Glasgow, and in its environs are Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, Theatre Royal, and Centre for Contemporary Arts. You can find additional information including transport and travel tips in our Glasgow Travel Guide.
Aberdeen
- Seasonal average high temperatures (°C): Spring, 14.3; Summer, 17; Autumn, 8.9; Winter, 6.9
- Distance from Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen Railway Station: by train, about 45min; by car, approx. 7 miles
Aberdeen is an economic powerhouse in the oil, gas, and fisheries sectors, as well as being one of the largest cities on Scotland’s east coast. The Granite City also ranks third by population, with a thriving port and bustling city centre. The district of Castlegate, in the city centre, is a stone’s throw from Aberdeen Ferry Terminal, Aberdeen Bus Station, and Aberdeen Railway Station, making it a prime spot to commence your explorations. VisitScotland Aberdeen iCentre and Aberdeen Maritime Museum are both located here. For other attractions and information tips, check out our Aberdeen Travel Guide page.
Inverness
- Seasonal average high temperatures (°C): Spring, 14.3; Summer, 17.8; Autumn, 9.6; Winter, 7.8
- Distance from Inverness Airport (INV) to Inverness Railway Station: by train, about 35min; by car, approx. 10 miles
Often regarded as the capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is the northernmost city in the United Kingdom. The distinctive red sandstone of the immense Inverness Castle presides over the historical centre, and the climactic Battle at Culloden Moor has fought just 3 miles away. You can while a few hours away at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery or Inverness Cathedral, then walk along the banks of the River Ness. Our Inverness Travel Guide is full of useful information and tips to get you ready.
Stirling
- Seasonal average high temperatures (°C): Spring, 15.4; Summer, 18.8; Autumn, 10.3; Winter, 8.4
- Distance from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Stirling Railway Station: by train, about 1h; by car, approx. 30 miles
Stirling is one of the major links between the Lowlands and Highlands regions and was once the capital of the Scottish Kingdom. Its centre is dominated by the huge expanse of Stirling Castle, with the battlefield at the historical Bannockburn village nearby. Despite its agricultural roots, the modern city boasts robust communications, retail, and transport portfolios. The Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum is a short walk from Stirling Castle, near King’s Park. Stay a while and enjoy the grounds before a night on the town. Albert Halls and Stirling Tolbooth are major event venues for an evening’s entertainment.
St Andrews
- Seasonal average high temperatures (°C): Spring, 13.8; Summer, 18.2; Autumn, 9.6; Winter, 7.2
- Distance from Dundee Airport (DND) to St Andrews Bus Station: by train, about 60min; by car, approx. 15 miles
St Andrews overlooks the North Sea and is principally regarded as home to University of St Andrews and The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, the birthplace of golf. The ruins of St Andrews Castle and St Andrews Cathedral offer insights into the past, with panoramic views of the modern city skyline from St Rule’s Tower. This is a huge university town, so expect an active centre with busy bars and eateries most of the year. The St Andrews Museum and St Andrews Botanical Garden are ideal for browsing when you’re not deciding which links to play.
Isle of Skye
- Seasonal average high temperatures (°C): Spring, 12.1; Summer, 15.1; Autumn, 9.4; Winter, 7
- Distance from Inverness Airport to Portree: by train/bus, at least 4h; by car, approx. 120 miles
One of the largest Hebrides Islands, Isle of Skye is connected to the mainland by the Skye Bridge but is still a relatively remote location by most standards. Perhaps this explains why it is often regarded as one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, with Portree Harbour a focal point for eager sightseers. If you’re into clan culture, Skye was seat to at least three: the MacDonalds, MacKinnons, and MacLeods, each with their own castle keep. When visiting the Isle of Skye, plan on car hire if you’re driving yourself for unrestricted freedom of movement.
Fort William
- Seasonal average high temperatures (°C): Spring, 13.6; Summer, 17.6; Autumn, 8.3; Winter, 6
- Distance from Inverness Airport to Fort William Railway Station: by train, about 3h; by car, approx. 75 miles
Sitting at the southern end of the Great Glen, Fort William is a prominent tourist destination in the Highlands. Idyllic landscapes around the town have been featured in major cinematic releases, adding to the magic and adventure characters of famous franchises. Off the silver screen, outdoor enthusiasts rate Fort William amongst the beautiful places in Scotland to sample hillwalking and climbing adventures at Ben Nevis. Nevis Gorge and Steall Falls are natural wonders which add magical splendour, while the train ride across Glenfinnan Viaduct is worth every penny.
Loch Lomond
- Distance from Glasgow Airport to Loch Lomond: by car, approx. 24 miles
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is one of the great recreational getaways in Scotland, hosting a myriad of surface and water-based activities for singles, couples, and families. Campsites are available during peak season, where you can fish or discover the Loch islands via kayak or canoe. The nature reserve contains many protected species of flora, fauna, and wildlife, and there are trails for those who prefer longer nature walks or hikes.
Loch Ness
- Distance from Inverness Airport to Loch Ness: by car, approx. 23 miles
Just south of Inverness along the Great Glen, Loch Ness is perhaps the most famous body of water in the British Isles. One of the deepest freshwater pools in the UK, it is fabled as the residence of the famous Loch Ness monster and continues to be a huge draw for worldwide visitors seeking a sighting of the mysterious Nessie. There are several villages along the banks of the loch to barter a boat ride, or you can charter a cruise from Inverness and enjoy a more scenic adventure.
