Best Things to Do in Scotland

1. Loch Ness

The notoriety surrounding Loch Ness is second to none. It is perhaps most surprising that this famous site continues to enthrall - and despite the obvious touristy element it’s a fun place to visit. Adults fulfilling childhood dreams of trying to spot the famous Loch Ness Monster and kids getting swept up in the magic.

And then, once you’ve bought the plushy Nessie and a couple magnets or postcards, you can start to appreciate Loch Ness afresh. One of the most popular activities at Loch Ness is a boat cruise - well worth the price.

2. Edinburgh

The city of Edinburgh is definitely a can’t miss on your Scotland tour. A walk along the “Royal Mile” through the Old Town is great for shopping, eating, and city sightseeing - including the National Gallery and Museum. For a full day, you can begin or end the walk at famous Edinburgh Castle.

Edinburgh Castle is a solid fixture built in the 11th century and looking over the city from an imposing height. The fortress is enormous and it is highly recommended to take a tour to explore the many rooms, learn about the sprawling history and the National War museum housed inside.

Other attractions of note in Edinburgh include the Edinburgh Zoo, Botanical Gardens, and St. Giles Cathedral.

3. Eilean Donan Castle

This 13th century castle may not be as big or flashy as something like Edinburgh Castle, but its aura is charmingly mysterious and quintessentially Scottish. Sitting on a small island on the banks of three sea lochs you can only access the castle over an ancient stone bridge. Visitors will be able to explore many well preserved rooms containing Jacobean artefacts.

4. Isle of Skye

If you are eager to get a taste of Scotland’s rugged coastline and experience just a small sliver of the nearly 800 Scottish islands, the Isle of Skye is a great place to start. Easy to visit via ferry, you can roam the trails feeling the intense sea air as you observe the famous spearing rock formations.

If you don’t have a lot of time, it’s worth it to take a guided tour so that you can make the most of your visit on the Isle of Skye. Besides the impressive lochs and natural attractions, there are tons of hidden castles and small villages to discover on Skye. Have a camera ready - and dress in layers!

5. Loch Lomond

Loch Ness may get the notoriety, but Loch Lomond is no less spectacular - even without the supernatural appeal. Located in southern Scotland, Loch Lomond is part of the beautiful Trossachs National Park. Providing seemingly endless trails and outdoor activities including camping, mountaineering, and even golf, Trossachs is the perfect destination for getting out and enjoying nature.

6. National Museum

The Scottish National Museum is world renowned, and a great stop along the Royal Mile for taking in some incredible archaeological finds that highlight Scotland’s history and ancient culture. Recently redeveloped, the museum is worth visiting even if you don’t think of yourself as a museum goer.

7. Scottish National Gallery

For those who are fans of visual art more than historical artefacts, the Scottish National Gallery is a can’t miss experience. Even if you don’t love museums and art, take a moment to enjoy the impressive architecture of the building and at least breeze through to admire some of the famous works to be found here.

8. Arthur's Seat

If the weather holds for you, a hike up Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh is definitely something you should do while traveling in Scotland. One of the many rumored locations of Camelot, it’s fun to imagine the mythology surrounding the ancient hills as you climb.

There are several routes you can take, most of which are easy to moderately challenging - it’s a long walk so be prepared to sweat a bit. There are even some rock climbing areas around Arthur’s Seat, available if you have a permit. If you’d rather not walk the whole way, a popular option involves taking a cab about three quarters of the way up and walk the rest.

When you get to the top, hope for clear skies so you can take in the amazing panoramic views over Edinburgh!

9. Stirling Castle

Another top castle to visit in Scotland, Stirling Castle is an incredibly well preserved example of Renaissance architecture. A favorite residence for kings and queens in the 16th century, today Stirling is a popular place for guided tours.

A great spot for kids as you encounter actors and historians in period dress who explain about life at the castle. The beautiful gardens also provide a nice and calming respite.

10. Scotch Whisky Tasting

How could a trip to Scotland be complete without a taste of the country’s famous brown liquor? Scotch and Whisky tastings are an extremely popular tourist activity throughout Scotland, and because of this it is easy to overspend, even if you’re on a tour where this is a commonly offered excursion.

That said, it would be a shame to miss out. Similarly to Guinness in Ireland, Scotch tastes different in Scotland than anywhere else in the world. One of the most popular ways to experience Scotch in Scotland is the Scotch Whisky Experience, located right next to Edinburgh Castle. Book in advance!