Things to do in Scotland

All about Scotland

When to visit

Few visit Scotland for its weather. It’s an unavoidable truth that Scotland is most often wet and cool. You can hope for the most pleasant conditions from May through September, but you should always be prepared for climatic variations—even in a single day. Summer is also the busy season and can bring large crowds to major attractions, particularly Edinburgh for the August festivals and the Isle of Skye. Dodge crowds by visiting in May or September.

Also, the Highland games season begins in May, peaks in July and August, and comes to a close toward the end of September, with most events taking place on the weekends. Enjoying the yearly festivities is one of the most popular things to do in Scotland for both visitors and locals.

Getting around

Scotland’s extensive public transportation network makes getting around by bus, train, and ferry a breeze. Services tend to become scarcer and slower the more rural you travel, so it’s a good idea to have your own wheels or book a tour when heading to more remote areas. Driving in Scotland does require skill and patience as much of the country is connected by small, single-track roads.

Traveler tips

Scottish food has a poor reputation, but open-minded travelers may be pleasantly surprised by the breadth of the country’s cuisine. Avoid tourist traps whenever possible and make it a point to dine in locally owned restaurants that serve locally sourced produce. Foodie highlights include seafood fresh off the boat, wild game straight from the moors, and gin enhanced with local botanicals such as kelp and heather.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Scotland known for?

Scotland is a land of instantly recognizable images (or clichés, depending on your opinion): tartan, bagpipes, haggis, mist-shrouded mountains, heather-clad hills, and haunting valleys. The small country has an outsized cultural reputation and has produced some of the world’s best literature, music, and art.

What should you not miss in Scotland?

Many visitors make the mistake of sticking to Edinburgh and its surroundings. You shouldn’t miss the chance to get out into the countryside—easily done in a small country. The Scottish Highlands are within easy reach from the capital and home to some of Scotland’s most majestic landscapes.

How many days is enough for Scotland?

Ten days is enough time to tick off many key things to do in Scotland. You can see all of the highlights of Edinburgh and Glasgow, explore the highlights of the Highlands (including Glencoe and Loch Ness), and add on a visit to an island, such as Isle of Arran, Isle of Islay, or Mull.

What food should you try in Scotland?

Scottish food has an unfair and outdated reputation. The country boasts farm-to-table fare featuring world-class ingredients, from fresh seafood to wild game. Make sure to try Scottish salmon, local cheeses, and grouse, as well as distinctively Scottish dishes like cullen skink (a hearty fish soup), black pudding, and, yes, haggis.

Which cities should you visit on your first trip to Scotland?

You shouldn’t miss Edinburgh, the jewel in Scotland’s crown and home to its top attractions including Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. But don’t sleep on Glasgow. Scotland’s grittier and inarguably friendlier city is less shaped by tourism, offering an earthier and perhaps more authentic view of Scotland.

What is the best way to travel around Scotland?

Rent a car if you can. Public transportation is extensive but train and bus timetables are not always convenient when traveling to more remote parts of the country. Alternatively, book guided tours and let someone else tackle driving on narrow country roads.

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