The stunning panoramas seen so frequently in Scotland make driving in Scotland an enjoyable experience, as does the ability to stop off at small but incredibly gorgeous towns around the country.

But what do you need to know if you’re considering renting a car in Scotland? After driving around on a few epic Scottish road trips ourselves, we reveal all car rental Scotland tips.

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Renting a Car in Scotland

What do you need for a car rental in Scotland?

The answer to ‘what do you need to rent a car in Scotland’ is – surprisingly – very little! As long as you hold a standard Latin driving license, you can drive the same type of vehicle in Scotland without much other paperwork for up to a year.

If your license is not in English, it’s best to have a translation just in case. You also should be prepared to hand over your passport. Most of the time, you do not need to apply for an international driving license or have a special permit.

You are also required to have insurance, which can be organized by the rental agency (for a fee) or with a US credit card if you’re renting a car in Scotland as an American. There will be various options available to you, so you’ll have to decide what you want to add on. If more than one person intends to share the driving, you’ll also need that as an add-on.

Legally speaking, that’s it, although most Scotland car rental companies will have a few additional rules you’ll have to agree to. For instance, most companies limit their rentals to those over the age of 21, with people aged between 21 and 24 required to pay a surcharge (due to the increased likelihood of an incident). Likewise, those over the age of 75 might face a surcharge for the same reason.

Car Rental in Scotland Insurance

As mentioned above, if you have a US credit card, you may already have CDW insurance for rental car coverage and don’t know it! It’s worth checking your documentation and calling your credit card to find out. It’s even worth considering signing up for a new credit card that does offer this.

Bringing me to my next point – credit cards with primary rental insurance. The Chase Sapphire Reserve is my favorite travel credit card for many reasons, but the primary rental insurance is one of its best perks (including Priority Pass membership). When you put your car hire on your Chase Sapphire Reserve card, you get primary rental car coverage around the world for up to $75,000.

Car rental companies in Scotland and around the world love to scare customers and upsell all their insurance packages. You need to make sure if you need it or not before falling victim to their trap. Call your credit card company and always find out before you get to Scotland.

If you don’t have a credit card that covers rental car insurance, it may be worth adding it to your package. That way, you won’t be stuck paying for car damages out of pocket if there is an accident.

Cost of Car Rentals in Scotland

It’s now so easy to compare rental car prices online; you’ll find most of the big rental car companies have rates that end up being pretty close to one another; they keep an eye on the competitor’s prices, so they remain competitive themselves. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do a little shopping around.

Be careful when looking online, as rental companies tend to use tricks to make prices look lower than they actually are. The main way they do this is by using a ‘from’ price, with the actual amount you’ll pay only revealed when you’re further into the booking process, and they reckon you won’t bother giving up and going elsewhere.

Another trick they have is to show the price excluding tax, which means you’ll have something in the region of a further 20% to add to the headline price on show.

Needless to say, the cost of a smaller car will be lower than renting a larger one. The fewer add-ons (extra drivers, GPS, etc.) you require, the cheaper it will be too. We will talk more about this later in this article.

We traveled around Scotland for two weeks in the off season and paid about $300 for a car rental in Scotland, which was a pretty decent deal. However, other times, we’ve traveled to Scotland in the summer and paid astronomical rates. With rental cars, often, the sooner in advance you book, the better rate you will get. I like to check comparison sites to get the best prices. If you book during the summer season, expect to pay higher rates as the demand is high.

My favorites to look at are:

How To Book a Rental Car in Scotland

Nowadays, booking a rental car in Scotland is straightforward before arriving there. We think the benefits of doing this are huge. Not only are you ‘guaranteed’ the vehicle you’ve opted for, reducing stress levels, but you’ll be charged less for renting that same vehicle simply because you’ve pre-booked. Walking up and trying to book a car is one of the worst things you can do for your wallet.

If, for whatever reason, you are unable to pre-book, don’t worry! Rental agencies rarely run out of vehicles (and if they do, you can just pop next door to a competitor). However, it might mean there’s less choice – something worth bearing in mind if you have specific requirements, such as an automatic (not as common in Europe).

These vehicles go for a higher rate for the same car, and you’ll end up spending more time at the desk of the rental company rather than enjoying the start of your vacation. I always warn people to book a car rental at least 24 hours in advance. However, booking your car rental in Scotland is best as soon as you know you are taking a trip to get the best rate. You can always cancel later. You can see all my additional tips on renting a car abroad here.

Hold Charge on Credit Card

Every single one of our fifty or so rental cars has put a hold on our credit card for the rental period. Holds can range anywhere from a few hundred bucks to $1000+ in some countries. The “excess charge,” as it is called, is typically stated in your reservation details, but it is easy to miss. The rate charged is usually dependent on the rental car agency.

We know that they must put this hold on our card, but it can be a huge shocker if you are unsuspecting and end up exceeding your credit card credit limit. These excess charges are for scenarios where you disappear with the car and are never seen again, or get in a crash and refuse to pay—stuff like that.

Pickup Locations For Car Rentals in Scotland

If you’re flying straight into Scotland on a direct flight (rather than crossing the border overland from England, for example), the best place to pick up your car rental in Scotland is at the airport.

One of my top car rental Scotland tips is to rent from major cities. Both Edinburgh and Glasgow Airports (those with direct flights from the US to Scotland) have good rental car facilities, with all the main companies represented.

This is the best place to pick up your vehicle because it saves you the time and expense of getting into the city center without your own transport (and probably some heavy luggage too). Even if there is an airport surcharge from the rental agency, I still generally find it worth it to rent from there.

However, should you need them (such as if you’ve traveled up from London by the Caledonian Express sleeper train), most of the main rental car companies also have offices in the city centers.

These city center offices are also a good option if you want to explore Scotland on a self-drive vacation before continuing your tour of the UK (Scotland, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland) by other means. Just be aware that picking up your vehicle from one location and dropping it off at another (even in the same city) will likely cost you more.

Choose the Right Car Rental in Scotland

Size

It’s best to opt for a smaller car when renting a car in Scotland. Why’s that? For one thing, depending on where you’ll be coming from, you could be driving on the ‘wrong’ side of the road – on the left-hand side of the road rather than the right. The steering wheel is on right side of the vehicle which may not be what you are used to, with the gear shift (in manual transmission vehicles) and parking brake on the opposite side to you as well.

So, the smaller the vehicle you have to control, the better! That said, the pedals are in the same order as in the US, with the clutch on the left (for manual vehicles), the foot brake in the middle, and the gas pedal on the right.

The second reason to choose a smaller car when driving in Scotland as a visitor is because some of Scotland’s roads are pretty narrow! Away from the highways (called motorways and denoted by an ‘M’ designation), you’ll be surprised how quickly roads become rural, meaning a smaller vehicle is definitely better.

In some places (such as some of Scotland’s many islands and the North Coast 500 route), routes even narrow down to a single lane for both directions of traffic. In this case, you’ll find ‘passing places’ in which to pass each other.

Style

Another thing you should consider when deciding on what rental car type to opt for is how many people and how much luggage you’ll have. Nippy two-door cars are great for getting about (and really easy to park) but don’t offer much legroom in the back if those seats are going to be used for people, and obviously also have less space in the trunk (called the boot in Scotland) for luggage.

Transmission Type

Finally, you’ll have the option of a manual or automatic transmission vehicle. Manuals are by far the most common cars driven in Scotland, which means you’ll have a more extensive choice if you’re happy to drive one.

They also tend to be cheaper to rent as a result. However, automatics are also available if you’re not happy driving a manual transmission and shifting gears yourself. Just make sure you make this preference absolutely clear when booking.

What is the Age Limit For Renting a Car in Scotland?

To rent a car in Scotland, you must be a minimum of 21, but you should expect young driver fees if you are under 26.

Fuel choices When Renting a Car in Scotland

Fuel choice shouldn’t be a significant factor in deciding what vehicle to rent in Scotland. Unlike in the US, diesel is just as easy to find as petrol. All petrol stations sell diesel as well as gas.

You’ll find prices between the two pretty similar as well (and a lot more than what you’ll pay in the US).  So, unless you’re going to be driving vast distances (when a diesel vehicle becomes a little more economical, but something that is pretty difficult to do in Scotland in any case), there’s no real reason to choose one over the other.

At gas stations, gas is denoted by green pump handles. All gas in Scotland is now unleaded, meaning one less thing to worry about. Black pump handles indicate diesel. In cities and on the highways, gas stations are pretty easy to find and look similar to those in the US. You’ll pay more for the same amount of fuel at a highway gas station than elsewhere. The more rural your journey becomes, the harder it will be to find a gas station, so fill up when you see one.

Both gas and diesel are sold by the liter, and gas stations are generally self-service. Simply pull up beside a pump and begin filling up your vehicle to the approximate cost/volume you require (there’s no automatic cut-off). Payment comes afterward. To pay, you’ll need to pop into the on-site shop (they also sell snacks and drinks) and tell the cashier the pump number. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or cash (British pounds sterling only).

If you don’t return your rental vehicle with a full tank of fuel or where it was given to you at, you will be charged to fill it up. Rental car companies charge a premium to fill up the tank for you, which makes it well worth stopping off at a gas station before returning it.

Opt for Navigation for Your Car Rental in Scotland

GPS is brilliant for when you’re using a car rental in Scotland and driving along unknown roads. Having a GPS kit to focus on the navigation means you can concentrate on driving without having to read every road sign you pass.

Navigation systems are also useful because they can provide alternative routes, should they be needed, like taking you around congestion hotspots in the cities. The most modern versions will indicate the road’s speed limit, too – measured in miles per hour, just like in the US.

That’s not to say you need to get the GPS add-on with a rental car. If you have a cell phone with a local SIM contract or an eSIM, you’ll be able to access the data network, which means you can use smartphone navigation apps such as Google Maps.

Alternatively, if you don’t have a local SIM contract and don’t want to spend lots of cash on international roaming, you can download a Google Map to your phone while in WiFi. If you forget to do this, Edinburgh Airport has free (albeit slow) WiFi to download a map of Scotland to your phone, but make sure you have free space on your phone!

When driving in Scotland, it is not permitted to use a cell phone to make calls or send/receive SMS text messages. You can use your smartphone for navigation purposes, but it must be hands-free only (such as safely stowed on the windscreen), and you must not program navigation while the vehicle’s engine is running. I recommend getting a phone holder for your car dashboard for your travels.

Accept The Rental Office Assistance

The rental car agent will often ask if you’d like them to show you around the vehicle or whether you’re happy to do it yourself. It’s best to accept the offer of being shown around the vehicle so that you can mark any damages. The agent will generally start with the outside of the vehicle, pointing out any bumps or scratches that already exist, and make sure all the damages are noted. This will also assure you of the roadworthiness of the vehicle.

On the vehicle’s inside, ensure you know how to operate the headlights, indicator lights, and hazard lights before leaving the parking bay. You should also know the location of the windscreen wipers (an absolute must in Scotland) and the horn.

Make sure you know how to alter the position of the driver’s seat, how the parking brake works (is it a traditional manual one you pull up, or a newer electronic one), and how to engage reverse gear (which often requires you to push a button of some sort first). They will also help you set up the GPS if you’ve opted for one.

Remember that if you’re unhappy with anything you see, you should insist on an alternative vehicle. These must be noted before leaving the parking lot if you find cigarette burns, broken mirrors, or windshield cracks. Otherwise, you could be charged for the damages once you return the rental.

We always take photos before leaving the rental car lot of the vehicle, so that we have photo proof of what the vehicle looked like before we picked it up. That way, we won’t be charged for any damages prior to us renting the vehicle.

Distances and Speeds in Scotland

One of my top car rental Scotland tips is to keep distances and speeds in mind. Distances and speeds are measured in miles, just like in the US. The speed limit is usually signposted on each new stretch of road or change in speed. Look out for round white signs with a red edge and a number in the center.

If in doubt about the speed of a particular stretch of road, you can use the following basic rules: motorways – the Scottish equivalent of highways – are denoted by an M. For instance, the M8 runs between Edinburgh and Glasgow. All motorways have a maximum speed limit of 70 mph, although over-road signage may reduce this given traffic or weather conditions. They are colored blue on maps and road signs.

The same speed limit is in force for dual carriageways (mini two-lane highways). Outside of built-up areas, the speed limit is generally 50 mph, while in more urban areas (anywhere with street lighting), the maximum speed is typically 30 mph – although, around schools, it can be as low as 20 mph.

Some rural roads may be single-lane (and roads tend to be quite narrow compared to those in the US, in any case). There will generally be passing places that allow cars to pull aside to allow vehicles coming in the opposite direction to pass. (Speaking of which, don’t park in passing places – only ever use dedicated parking spaces.

Speed limits are limits, not targets; only drive as fast as feels safe. Try not to worry if locals who know the roads better than you pass you at a safe place on the road.

Drinking and Driving in Scotland

If you plan to visit any famous Scottish distilleries, remember that drinking and driving in Scotland is a big no-no. The current limit is 22 microgrammes (mcg) of alcohol in 100 ml of breath, which is less than a beer for many people. If you are renting a car in Scotland and plan to enjoy a whiskey tasting on your trip, make sure to have a plan for driving and returning to your hotel afterward.

If you are a driver and visiting a brewery or distillery, just tell them you’re driving; they are well aware of the drinking and driving laws in Scotland and will be able to assist. Last time we visited Clynelish Distillery, they gave us little “to-go” tasters to enjoy at home!

Forget any worries you had about renting a car in Scotland! We’ve given you the lowdown on everything you need to help you have an amazing self-drive vacation in the home of Braveheart’s William Wallace, the Queen’s castles in Edinburgh and Balmoral, and the Loch Ness monster!

Now that we've covered these car rental Scotland, check out what you need to know for actually driving in Scotland! 

We have visited Scotland many times, and have walked away with quite a few Scotland travel tips to share. We had more than just a little fun in Scotland’s charismatic and stunning highlands. Scotland has history, stunning landscapes, great food, and charismatic locals. It doesn’t matter if you are a regular or first-time traveler, these are a few things you should know before you travel to Scotland. I’m sure you will figure out the rest when you get there!

What to Know When You Travel to Scotland

Where is Scotland

Scotland is part of the United Kingdom, covering the northern third of the island of Great Britain. It shares a border with England to the Southeast and is surrounded by sea to the northeast, north, and west.

Most Scottish live on the mainland and in the center of Scotland, though there are nearly 800 islands off the coast! Scotland features wild coastlines, beautiful white sand beaches, stunning mountains, and rolling hills.

27 BEST Places to Visit in Scotland

Getting to Scotland

Many international flights are best served via the Edinburgh Airport (EDI), though many European cities connect well to Aberdeen International Airport, Glasgow International Airport, and Glasgow Prestwick International Airport.

Glasgow Prestwick is the only airport in Scotland connected to the rail network. Those traveling to Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Glasgow International must use the bus service to the city center or take a taxi. All airports have rental car centers.

Travelers from England can connect to Scotland’s Railway System, so arriving in Scotland from London will not be complex.

Driving in Scotland

The best way to travel around Scotland is with a rental car, especially if you’re traveling with a group. All with an international driving license can drive in Scotland. Driving in Scotland is no joke, and it’s essential to realize that before renting a vehicle. For starters, the Scots drive on the left side of the road, with the steering wheel on the right.

Second, instead of stoplights, most of the roads in Scotland run smoothly because of roundabouts. Yes, roundabouts. Those are the circle streets you may get a wee bit nervous about driving on if you’re not used to them.

Third and most important – the roads in many parts of the country, including the highlands, are often small single-track roads fit for just one vehicle at a time. Every 400 meters or so, there are passing points to let oncoming traffic get through. The car closest to a passing point should be the one to yield. 

If you book early enough, you can score a great rate at one of Scotland’s many car rental centers! Renting a car in Scotland is one of the best ways to explore. This allows you to go where you want, and always stop for a beautiful view whenever you want!

See More Our Tips for Renting a Car in Scotland

Is Scotland Safe?

Scotland is an incredibly safe and warm place to visit. The Scottish people are some of the friendliest people we have met on our travels. This does not mean to let loose in major cities at night, as petty crime and pickpockets are still a problem in urban areas.

If you are ever in danger, call 999 (or 112) and ask for the police, ambulance, etc.

What is the currency in Scotland?

Scotland is part of the UK, and uses the Pound Sterling (£). All major credit cards can also be used across Scotland, and we have never had trouble using our credit cards just about anywhere.

Lochs, Bens, and Munros

If you’ll be spending a lot of time outside and hiking in Scotland one of my top Scotland travel tips is to familiarize yourself with a few terms. A loch is a lake, a munro is a mountain over 3000 ft, and you can usually find the word “Ben” in any mountain peak name.

Hiking in Scotland: 15 BEST Hikes in Scotland

Where to Stay When You Travel to Scotland?

There are plenty of places to stay in Scotland. In major cities, you’ll find internationally recognized hotel chains like Marriott, IHG and Airbnbs. While in the countryside, you’re looking at staying at small boutique hotels and b&bs.

Our favorite places to stay in Scotland are in guesthouses run by local families, which you can find all over Airbnb and VRBO!

Tipping in Scotland

Tipping in Scotland is not like tipping in the United States, though if you go out to eat at a restaurant, it is still common practice to leave a tip of around 10%. There is no need to tip in casual situations like getting a beer at a hairstylist or nail salon.

What Plug Do They Use in Scotland?

Scotland uses the same plugs as the rest of the United Kingdom which is the plug type is G (three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern). This is different from the standard Europlug. We recommend purchasing a good travel adaptor before your trip to Scotland.

Is the Tap Water in Scotland Safe to Drink?

The tap water around Scotland is very safe to drink and delicious. There is no need to buy plastic bottles, so we recommend grabbing an awesome travel water bottle to refill and stay hydrated.

A Few Fun Facts About Scotland

• A Scottish Guy Invented The Steam Engine: His name? James Watt. He also gives his name to a unit of energy and is credited with coming up with the measurement of horsepower.
• There Are 790 Islands That Are Part Of Scottish Land: There are four main groups: the Inner Hebrides, the Outer Hebrides, Shetland, and Orkney.
• Edinburgh Castle is On An Extinct Volcano: To be precise, the castle sits on a volcanic plug called Castle Rock. It’s been the site of a royal castle ever since the 12th century, but with fortresses existing here before then, and was very important to the Kingdom of Scotland. In its 1,100 year history, it’s had 26 identified sieges.

34 Fun Scotland Facts You Can Impress Friends With

What to Eat in Scotland

Scottish food, at its core, is all about the ingredient and Scottish foods vary by location. Though Scotland’s national dish is haggis, a savory meat pudding, the national drink is of course, whisky. Other Scottish foods to try are Scotch pie, Cullen skink, neeps and tatties, and fresh salmon!

When we travel Scotland we love all the fresh food and can often find hand-dived scallops, smoked salmon, aged whisky, stilton, croquettes, cheddar, dry-aged beef, duck, wild mushrooms, venison, grouse, lamb, aubergines, hand-picked herbs, and craft distilled gin.

The Atlantic Ocean supplies a copious amount of amazing seafood to Scotland. Fish and chips may be a classic dish, but there is a lot more to food in Scotland these days than a fried piece of cod.

Look for amazing smoked salmon, fresh oysters, langoustine, trout, scallops, and even sea urchins. We had some fantastic meals on our Scotland trip. You can check out the best of our Scottish food here.

Typical Costs For Traveling Scotland?

Scotland is far from the most expensive destination, but being in the UK it may be more than you expect.

Average Two-Week Trip to Scotland Cost (pp)

Popular Activities/Tours in Scotland

How to Save Money in Scotland?

• Cook Your Own Food: If your accommodation has a kitchen, then one of our Scotland travel tips is to use it. We save money this way when traveling around Scotland. Grocery stores in Scotland are amazing and well-stocked, and one can easily cook an amazing meal for cheap.
• Drink Tap Water: Tap water in Scotland is perfectly fine to drink, so it is best not to waste money or plastic on one-time-use water bottles. Get yourself a travel water bottle and keep refilling it!
• Travel During the Offseason: I think traveling in Scotland, particularly shrines, in the offseason. I don’t like crowds or high prices, so I love traveling between September and May. We highlight the best time to visit Scotland in this post.

How Much Does a Trip to Scotland Cost?

Just a Wee Drink

When you travel to Scotland, there are two things you need to know about the people of Scotland. They are some of the friendliest people on earth and they like to drink. Don’t be surprised when you hear the classic line “oh, it’s just a wee drink” or “how ’bout a wee dram o’ whisky.”

Although Scotch is of national pride and a fantastic spirit it is not what the Scottish drink every day. The most popular drink these days is gin and beer. So, we got to make friends and relive our days of African safari with some gin & tonics.

If you travel to Scotland, you better try at least a little of their national drink just once. There are plenty of amazing Scottish distilleries to tour as well!

Keep in mind that drinking and driving in Scotland is a big no-no. The current limit is 22 microgrammes (mcg) of alcohol in 100 ml of breath, which is less than a beer for some people. Keep this in mind when drinking in Scotland.

Wow!

When you travel Scotland, you should get used to saying wow if you are planning a road trip around Scotland! The rugged mountains that appear to be older than time are cloaked in thick heather that washes across the landscape in a sea of green and purple. In all the places we have traveled the Scottish Highlands is one of the most beautiful regions we have ever seen.

We weren’t prepared for the beauty of the highlands or the Isle of Skye and knew nothing about the landscape of Scotland before arriving. It only took an hour of driving out of Edinburgh before we were out of the car, snapping photos.

Freedom to Roam

One thing to know when you travel to Scotland is that there is no trespassing. Everyone has the right to roam along the countryside, including farms. The “freedom to roam” is the public’s right to access public or privately owned land for recreation.

This doesn’t include houses, gardens, or military bases, so don’t go squatting on someone’s porch, but it does allow people to enjoy the land and inland water for their well-being. The only stipulation is that you must do so responsibly and safely and stay a reasonable distance from home. In general, you must respect other people’s interests, care for the environment, and take responsibility for your actions. You can read more about it here.

So, mind the sheep and close the gate!

Cloudy With a Chance of Sun

Despite what you may see in countless photos and videos (we’re guilty), Scotland has some notorious weather. An important Scotland travel tip to know is that you should expect clouds, rain, wind, sideways rain, fog, and the occasional sun even in the summer.

In Scotland, the saying goes, “a dry day is a good day.” If you’re coming to Scotland for a suntan, you may want to rebook your flights to Greece. You should come prepared with at least a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof boots.

Forget the umbrella! Wind + Umbrella = Not Good If you want to know more, we’ve got a packing post for Scotland!

Beware the Midges

You need to know about the midges before you travel to Scotland. If there is one terrible, terrible, terrible thing about Scotland, it is the bloody midges – and the Scots will agree!

We’ve dealt with many insects in our travels, but none as bad as midges (which includes our year in Africa). They are tiny flying insects that are attracted to your nose, eyes, mouth, and every exposed piece of skin.

Oh, and they fly in swarms, and they bite. You will know if you run across a patch of these flying demons.

The best defense is some bug spray and clothes that cover your skin. We saw some photographers with fly nets over their faces, which might be worthwhile investments. You can also purchase midge spray in many markets in Scotland.

Aye Lassie and Lads

Loch, hill, ben, and glen are just a few names you’ll need to learn when traveling to Scotland. These aren’t names of people but various natural features you’ll find throughout the country.

Lochs are what the rest of the English-speaking world refers to as lakes. Hill or Ben can refer to a mountain, and glen means valley. Also, I’m convinced all pirate talk in movies is just a bunch of Scots. Aye, lassie!

There are a Few Narrow Roads

Wondering how to travel in Scotland? Well, one of the best ways is to drive yourself! If you plan to drive through the Scottish Highlands or the North Coast 500, be prepared for some single-track roads. The vast majority of roads in Scotland are one lane with a small passing area to allow to oncoming cars to pass.

These passing points are roughly every 400 meters or so to let oncoming traffic get through. The car closest to a passing point should be the one to yield. That does not mean crossing the path of another vehicle into the passing point. If the passing place is on your side of the road you move over, if it is on their side you wait for them to approach you.

Driving in Scotland? Here are 13 Helpful Tips

Watch Out for Shaggy Cows and Black Sheep

There are more sheep in the Scottish Highlands than there are people. In other words, there is a lot of sheep, like a ton; Scotland thank you for supplying the world with wool.

They also gave us an animal with probably the best hairdo in the world. The Highland Cow, ‘ighland coo,’ shaggy cow, or kyloe. If you’re traveling Scotland, spotting one of these iconic animals is an absolute must.

The Best Places to Visit in Scotland

You could spend months traveling around Scotland and never get bored. A few of the best places to visit are:

• Edinburgh: The beautiful capital of Scotland
• Glasgow: Scotland’s fun city packed with interesting architecture and a unique culture.
• North Coast 500: A scenic 500 mile road trip through the Scottish Highlands. A must if you love road trips.
• Isle of Skye: Unreal scenery on the west coast. Book in advance, this is the most popular vacation destination in Scotland.
• Ben Nevis: The highest peak in the UK, and a popular Scotland hike you can check off your list.
• Orkney Islands: Group of islands off the north coast.
• Cairngorms National Park: In the Scottish Highlands is the UK’s largest National Park, with plenty of hikes, lochs, and even snowsports!

27 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

Staying Connected in Scotland

If you want to stay connected while in Scotland, I recommend picking up a Sim card and purchasing data when you arrive. We purchased 12 GB of data for £20 with Three. 

Their coverage extended into patches of the highlands and allowed us to at the very least check our emails, Instagram, and Facebook each day. Other comparable telecom companies in the UK include O2 and Vodafone.

When is the Best Season to Travel Scotland?

High season (July-September):

Like most European places, Scotland’s high season runs from July to mid-September. This is when you will find the best weather, as noted above, but also crowds. Days are longer, the weather is warmer, and hotel and car rental prices are at their highest.

Shoulder Season (May-June and Late September-November)

We’ve traveled to Scotland during the shoulder season and loved it. The weather is cool, the leaves are orange and yellow, and the vibe in the air is wonderful. This is also when we’ve found great deals on car rentals and guesthouses. However, famous places like Glasgow and Skye were hectic. We saw sunny days but also had many rainy Scotland overcast days.

Low Season (Late November-April)

The temperatures are cooler during the low season in Scotland, and you stand a solid chance of getting caught in the rain (or snow) storm. If you plan to travel to Scotland during this time you absolutely need a packable rain jacket, travel umbrella, and waterproof boots.

The upside is you’ll find low prices and low numbers of tourists. If you are in Scotland over the holidays make sure to participate in the festivals around the cities!

Check the Month By Month Breakdown Here

What to Pack When You Travel to Scotland

Wondering what to wear when you travel to Scotland? The country’s weather is pretty notorious so it’s only natural that the question of what to pack for Scotland comes up a lot.

With that in mind, you should be prepared as you’ll spend much of your time in Scotland outside, enjoying its beautiful cities and breathtaking landscapes.

READ MORE SCOTLAND TRAVEL TIPS

• 13 Car Rental Scotland Tips To Know Before You Go
• Scotland Packing List • What to Pack for Scotland
• When Is The Best Time To Visit Scotland?
• Driving in Scotland? Here are 13 Helpful Tips
• 12 Best Things to do in Brora
• The Best Places To Eat In Scotland
• 15 Best Stops on the North Coast 500 Route

The country has a lot to offer: spectacular landscapes, lakes, amazing seafood, castles, wildlife, and some of the friendliest people on earth. Scotland has so much history and culture, meaning there are so many interesting facts about Scotland. Let’s dig in with a few!

Fun Facts About Scotland to Know

1. Scotland is one of the Celtic Nations

Starting off our list of fun Scotland facts is this one! Alongside Ireland (the whole island), Wales, Cornwall, and Brittany, France, Scotland is one of the nations that make up the cultural region of the Celts. Similar traditions, genetic make-up, and folklore unite these ancient people.

2. The Scottish Highlands are home to the highest peaks in the UK

Not only are the Scottish Highlands incredibly beautiful (like, seriously), but it’s also where you’ll find Ben Nevis, which towers 4,411 feet above sea level. It’s relatively easy to climb for a mountain – since it’s only a wee one – so around 100,000 people do just that every year. We think it’s one of the best hikes in Scotland!

3. Not a lot of people live in the Highlands

It used to have a much bigger population, but in the 18th and 19th centuries, many Highland Scots moved abroad to Britain’s new colonies in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as to newly industrialized cities down south.

4. Glasgow used to be one of the largest cities in the world

A former center of shipbuilding and industry, Glasgow is Scotland’s second city, and it’s easy to see why if you know the history. At its peak in the late 19th century, Glasgow boomed, developing so quickly that it could barely keep up with housing and welfare.

5. A Scottish guy invented the steam engine

I bet this is one of those Scotland facts you didn’t know! The thing that properly kickstarted the Industrial Revolution – and arguably the whole industrialized, modern world as we know it – was the rotary steam engine. Like all good geniuses, he built upon an already good idea and came up with ways to make the boring old steam engine do cooler stuff.

His name? James Watt. He also gave his name to a unit of energy and was credited with coming up with the measurement of horsepower. Pretty cool guy.

6. There are 790 islands that are part of Scottish land

There are four main groups: the Inner Hebrides, the Outer Hebrides, Shetland, and Orkney. The Isle of Skye, for example, is known (like many of the Scottish islands) for its outstanding natural beauty.

7. The Orkney Islands weren’t Scottish until the 15th century

Norsemen from Norway colonized Orkney in the 8th century. Then they just decided to outright invade and annex Orkney in 875 AD. Cue hundreds and hundreds of years of Viking rule, until it was used as dowry by Danish King Christian I for his daughter’s hand in marriage to James III of Scotland. 

8. Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh is actually an extinct volcano

This is the place to go in Edinburgh if you want some great views of the city from high and it’s a super short hike in Scotland. It’s linked to legends about the semi-mythical King Arthur, obviously, but it’s a little known Scotland fact that it’s actually not just any old hill – it’s an extinct volcano.

9. Edinburgh Castle is also on an extinct volcano

To be precise, the castle sits on a volcanic plug called Castle Rock. It’s been the site of a royal castle ever since the 12th century, but with fortresses existing here before then, and was very important to the Kingdom of Scotland. In its 1,100 year history, it’s had 26 identified sieges.

10. There are three official languages recognized in Scotland

Can you guess what they are? Probably not. The first is English, the second is Scots, and the third is Gaelic (or Scottish Gaelic). English is self-explanatory. Scots is an indigenous language of Scotland thought to be an ancient variety of English and is spoken by around 1.5 million people in Scotland. Only around 87,000 people speak Gaelic.

11. College is free in Scotland

This is one of those fun facts about Scotland that might make you feel pretty bad about how much your parents saved for your college fees. Or the hoops you have to jump through to get a scholarship. Yessirree, higher education in Scotland is free. And there are some fantastic universities to boot, like St. Andrews – which is where Prince William went, for example.

12. Bagpipes are from Scotland

Used in poignant occasions across Britain and in military parades, bagpipes are a pretty big deal in the UK. They’re from Scotland and are first mentioned in text in the 1400s. They’re thought, however, to originate elsewhere, being evidenced in ancient Roman texts. The jury’s out on this one.

13. Scotland is not an independent nation

Scotland isn’t an actual nation. It’s a country that’s part of the United Kingdom and has its own parliament, but it isn’t independent.

14. Scotland signed a crazy treaty with England in 1502

That treaty’s name was the Treaty of Perpetual Peace. But then in 1512, James IV of Scotland decided to invade England with the help of France. We said it was complicated.

15. Scotland once had a baby queen

What we mean is that Mary Stuart – or more popularly known as Mary, Queen of Scots – became the actual Queen of Scotland in 1542 at the tender age of just six days old. She was literally born for the job.

She had a tumultuous reign and spent the last 18-and-a-half years in custody in England, where she was subsequently beheaded on the order of Queen Elizabeth I. Did we mention Scottish history is complicated?

16. Scotland boasts one of the world’s best neolithic settlements

That’s right, people. It’s called Skara Brae, and it dates back to around 3,180 BC. That makes it older than both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza. This Scotland fact has to be one of our favorites, because the place itself is an amazing complex that’s been compared to Pompeii in terms of preservation. It simply has to be seen – it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site after all.

17. There’s a tomb in Scotland that’s 4,000 years old

Another history fact about Scotland now; this time around, we’re looking at a recently discovered tomb. Not just any old tomb, but the tomb of a Bronze Age leader complete with treasures

18. The Romans really tried to invade Scotland

But they couldn’t. It was just too difficult. The rest of Britannia, from around 42 AD, had been relatively defenseless, but Scotland? Roman military efforts only lasted about 40 years on and off in Scotland. Tough guys. So what happened? The Romans built a wall.

19. Hadrian’s Wall didn’t just keep the Picts out

Ah yes, the Picts. They were the dangerous, unruly tribes of Scotland that the Romans just couldn’t subdue. So building a massive wall in 122 AD made total sense. But in addition to the wall, there were gates – early customs buildings. They couldn’t tax the Picts, but they could tax their trade.

20. One of Scotland’s biggest festivals celebrates a poet

Robert Burns – sometimes colloquially known as Robbie Burns – is a very famous Scottish literary figure. His writings, from poems written in Scots to the Scottish English dialect, are much loved. Robbie Burns Night, his birthday, involves reciting a poem, cutting haggis, and then eating potatoes (and haggis) and drinking a lot. It’s kind of like a national day.

21. Robert Burns’ most famous poem is about a haggis

It’s a fun fact about Scotland that one of the most famous poems by its most famous poet is called “Address to a Haggis.” This is often recited before the haggis is deftly cut by the speaker of the poem.

22. Haggis isn’t as gross as you think

You think about what goes into sausages on a mass, factory level, then you begin to think that actually haggis isn’t all that bad. What’s in haggis? Heart, liver, and lungs all mixed up with onions, spices, salt, and oatmeal. Formerly encased in a sheep’s stomach lining, the artificial lining is mostly used nowadays. You can even get vegetarian haggis! You can easily find Haggis at many restaurants in Scotland.

23. Irn Bru is the most popular soda in Scotland

Have you even heard of Irn Bru? Well, you should know about it because it’s crazy. This stuff is bright orange, tastes like… well, it’s sweet. A bit like Dr. Pepper but lighter. Scottish people swear by this stuff. It’s practically the national drink and outsells Coke by a long stretch.

24. Scotland’s national animal is a unicorn

An actual unicorn. The national animal, and the one that features on the country’s crest, is a mythical animal that doesn’t exist. Who cares whether it exists or not – we mean, a unicorn? That’s an awesome national animal. Go Scotland!

25. Sherlock Holmes came from Scotland

We all know Sherlock Holmes didn’t actually come from Scotland. He was from London and lived on Baker Street. Right? But the guy who created him, Scottish author Arthur Conan Doyle, was obviously Scottish and was born in Edinburgh. So there you go.

26. Scotland is home to its very own Olympics

Well, not really, but the Highland Games are still pretty cool and feature various tests of strength. There’s tossing the caber (throwing a massive log), shot put, hammer throw, sheaf toss (a bundle of straw thrown over a bar with a pitchfork), and the good old tug o’ war. Some of these events you may recognize; they’ve been in the Olympics since its early days!

27. The Scottish make whisky, not whiskey

One of those interesting facts about Scotland is that they spell their variety of whisky very differently to how the Irish do. Ok, so it’s not all that different, but that “e” is the all-important vowel between appearing to know what you’re writing about and making a fool of yourself. You might know it as “Scotch,” as many people do.

28. Scottish whisky is a serious business

Whisky-making is a tradition dating back to at least 1495 (the first written account of whisky, when it was called “aqua vita” – water of life). It must be aged for at least three years in oak barrels. Any more than that, it’s bound to get better with age. The bottle will tell you everything you need to know.

29. You measure whisky in drams

Not in fifths, or whatever. When you’re having a bit of whisky in Scotland, you can say you’re having “a wee dram.”  It’s this measurement of dram that has actually found its way to the US; a dram shop is the legal term for a drinking establishment.

30. Scotland is home to the oldest tree in Europe

There’s a yew tree in Fortingall that’s said to be over 3,000 years old. Some say 5,000. Either way, that’s a long time, and one of the most interesting Scottish facts we could find. Local legend has it that it’s under this tree that Pontius Pilate was born. 

31. The first modern fire brigade was assembled in Edinburgh 

Though firefighting dates back to Ancient Rome (for real), Edinburgh was the first city to have a municipal fire brigade. Formed in 1824, the Edinburgh Fire Engine Establishment predates London’s fire brigade (1832) and the USA’s oldest, formed in Cincinnati, Ohio (1853).

32. Scotland is where you’ll find the Loch Ness Monster

Though it may or may not exist, the Loch Ness Monster has a long history. Thought to be some sort of plesiosaur living in the deep, dark waters of Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands, it’s mentioned as early as 565 AD. Crazy, right?

Apparently a “water beast” attacked one of the followers of Saint Columba. Real or not, you’ll have to take a trip and perhaps drive the North Coast 500 to decide if this is one of those facts about Scotland that is real or not!

33. Tartan isn’t just a fashion statement

First mentioned in 1538, what Tartan you wore showed people what clan you were from. Each clan has a dedicated tartan. It’s seen as an icon of Scotland and is used by various countries today; Japan is the world’s biggest importer of Tartan. Even Hello Kitty has her own Tartan.

34. Kilts don’t require underwear

They may require long socks, but it’s a tradition for the men wearing kilts not to wear any undergarments – or “drawers,” as they’re known in Scotland. Nothing at all. It means you’re a true Scotsman. Except, of course, during the Highland Games when they’re flinging those cabers all over the place.

Quick Scotland Travel Tips

• Currency: Great British Pound (GBP)
• Visa: Many nationalities can enter the UK for 90 days visa-free
• Weather:  Expect lots of weather! Scotland is known for having rapid shifts in weather. Scotland receives a lot of rain to keep all the lakes, river, and streams full. See the best time to visit Scotland here.
• What to Pack: A great rain jacket, wool sweater, wool socks, travel camera, & down jacket.
• Stay Connected: We recommend Sim Cards from Three – signal is limited in the highlands.
• Right to Roam: There isn’t much in the form of trespassing in Scotland. Everyone has the right to roam and explore the stunning countryside.

Hope you enjoyed these fun Scotland facts! Any I should Add?

PLANNING A TRIP TO SCOTLAND?

Check out all of our resources!

• The Best Places to Visit in Scotland
• Our Top Tips For Renting a Car in Scotland
• What to Wear in Scotland: Clothes to Pack for Scotland
• 25 Scotland Travel Tips to Know Before You Go
• 12 Best Things To Do In the Small Town of Brora
• Our Favorite Stops on the North Coast 500 Route
• 21 North Coast 500 Travel Tips You Need to Know

The NC500 allows you to explore the beauty of the North and the Highlands fully. From serene beaches and castles to natural formations and wildlife, the Highlands will astound you with its treasure trove of the beautiful and the miraculous.

What is the North Coast 500?

The NC500 will take you directly to the captivating places in the Scottish Highlands in just a single route. This circular road trip starts from the city of Inverness to the extremities of Britain and back to the starting point.

However, you always have the option to start and finish wherever you want. You’re also in control of how much time you spend on your trip. But if you want to check out all the best spots on the North Coast 500, a week is more than enough to cover most of them.

This route aims to fill a gap in the Highlands’ tourism and economy and was launched in March 2015 by the National Highland Initiative (NHI) with support from Visit Scotland. The North Coast route has significantly increased profit and tourism in the Highlands area, adding about 29,000 visits in the first year of its launch.

How Long Does it Take to Drive the North Coast 500?

The North Coast 500 is a 516-mile (829 km) scenic route that takes you through some of the Scottish Highlands’ most breathtaking landscapes and charming towns. You can technically drive the route in a day, but where would the fun be in that? You wouldn’t be able to stop and enjoy all the best stops along the NC500 route.

An ideal time would be between 7-10 days, depending on how long you want to spend at each stop and how much time you want to allocate for sightseeing and activities along the way. Although you could easily see a lot in five days and delve deeper into the highlands with a full two weeks.

15 North Coast 500 Travel Tips to Know (Scottish 500)

Should You Drive the North Coast 500 Route Clockwise or Anti-Clockwise?

Both times we have driven the North Coast 500 route, we have done so anti-clockwise, which isn’t the typical route. So for simplicity’s sake, this post will detail the NC500 route clockwise.

There is really no difference between driving the route clockwise vs anti-clockwise. People typically hightail it to the west of Scotland as this is the more dramatic and what some would say “more beautiful” part, so of course, most visitors want to get there at the start of their trip. However, the benefit of driving counterclockwise is “saving the best for last.”

I Don’t Have Time to drive the Whole Route, What Should I do?

If you don’t have time to drive the whole North Coast 500, it’s possible to still drive portions of the route for a few days. For the more dramatic section, head to the west of the country near Applecross. This is where you’ll find breathtaking cliffs and landscapes that seem to be from a movie scene. If you are into castles and culture, we recommend driving north from Inverness towards the town of Brora to see Dunrobin Castle, enjoy a Distillery tour, and relax on the Scottish beach.

How do you avoid the crowds along the North Coast 500?

Summer is the busiest time of year on the North Coast 500, with crowds picking up in July and August. To have the most crowd-free experience, we recommend visiting outside of these months. Although, we drove the NC500 in September, and the route was far from empty. To avoid crowds, we recommend:

• Waking up early: Starting your day before 9 am will be beneficial.
• Sticking to the east: The eastern section of the route is much quieter than the more dramatic western area of the Scottish Highlands.
• Visit in the winter: Winter on the NC500 will prove to be very quiet, though this means more treacherous driving conditions. Many operators and tourist sites will also be closed for the season.
• Get out on a hike: Most people driving the NC500 won’t venture far from their car and pull off points. The further you hike, the more alone time you will have.

Where Does the North Coast 500 Route Start and End?

The “official” start and end of the North Coast 500 is in Inverness, but you can hop on the route anywhere you please!

Do I Have to Drive the NC500?

Driving the NC500 is the most popular way to experience the Scottish Highlands, however you can also cycle, motorbike, or even walk the 500 miles.

If you are walking or biking, be careful on the single-track roads and hairpin turns. It’s best not to walk or cycle the NC500 after dark as there are very few streetlights on the route.

Campervans on the NC500

Renting a campervan for the NC500 is very popular and there are a number of campervan companies to choose from. Before renting a campervan, make sure you feel comfortable driving very narrow roads with a rather large vehicle.

• Scottish Tourer
• IndieCampers
• Wild Campers
• Just Go Motorhomes
• Outdoorsy: Operates all over the globe. Perfect for solo travelers or couples, as well as larger models that can accommodate families or groups.

The Best Stops on the North Coast 500

1. Inverness

Located in the Northeastern part of Scotland, this lively capital city of the Scottish Highlands is where your North Coast 500 adventure begins and ends. Inverness has numerous wondrous places to check out during your trip. It is the perfect ground zero to relish the unique Scottish Highlands culture, cuisine, and music.

As a city embedded with rich history, there are myriad historical and even archaeological sites to visit. Add to these the bustling cultural and modern scenes- excellent restaurants, great pubs, and shops- that will keep you enthralled throughout your stay. There are also plenty of natural wonders and parks perfect for unwinding for families, kids, and couples. Luxury and budget-friendly accommodations are also available.

Well-known among these attractions is the historic site of Culloden, the Inverness Castle, Loch Ness, and the Victorian seaside resort- Nairns. The city also offers much enticement to the outdoorsy folks as it has scenic trails like Glen Affric, South Loch Ness Trail, and Meall fuar-mhonaidh. You can also join guided tours in the city that are suited to your interests, such as Distillery Tours, Whiskey Trail Tours, and an Outlander-inspired one for the show’s fans!

Where to Stay in Inverness? The Heathmount Hotel is just is 10 minutes’ walk from Inverness Castle

2. Rogie Falls

As you leave the capital city, take a moment to appreciate the wild, natural, and picturesque beauty of Rogie Falls. Rogie Falls is in the Black Water River in the county of Ross-shire. This wild wonder, amidst the rich pine forest, is only 20.6 miles away from the city of Inverness, which makes it one of the first spots you’ll stop by when you go for the North Coast 500 trip in a clockwise direction.

Enjoy a short, scenic walk from the car park to the suspension bridge here. The bridge can accommodate a few people at once (not wheelchair accessible, unfortunately). It is the perfect spot to enjoy an up-close view of the rushing falls. The recommended time to visit is in August-September if you want to see the captivating sight of leaping wild salmon. Follow their course upstream on the long Riverside Trail if you want to see more of them. Its challenging terrain will be exciting for hike lovers and adventure seekers!

For those who want more intense vitality from the falls, visit after heavy rain or snow. There are also free parking spaces, available toilets, picnic areas, shops, and food stores to check out.

Where to stay near Rogie Falls? The Lochview Guesthouse for a remote location. 

3. Applecross Peninsula

If you’re looking for a gorgeous, remote, and tranquil place with lots of history head right to Applecross, which is one of the most breathtaking places in the North Coast 500 for driving.

Applecross is home to the earliest settlement in Scotland and was mostly inaccessible for the better part of its history. Now, you can visit the historic village on two routes. Go via the coast road from Shielding, with its stunning coast views, or through the highest road in Britain, Bealach na Ba (Pass of the Cattle).

We also recommend enjoying the delicacies and seafood from Applecross Smokehouse to delight your palates. Other activities that to enjoy during your stay are the Applecross Photographic Gallery and Applecross Heritage Center. It’s also possible to go fishing and kayaking to experience the remote Scottish village first-hand!

4. Ullapool

This fishing town on the Loch Broom shores is one of the best places to see in your whole North Coast 500 adventure. Amidst its simplicity, the natural beauty and serenity of the place will tug at your heartstrings. This place is also historical, for it is where the British Fisheries Society was founded in the second half of the eighteenth century.

Ullapool offers various adventures to those eager to discover its quaint beauty. One can hike through the vast swathe of wildlife and foliage, swim in the serene, azure waters of Ardmair Beach, climb Ullapool Hill or spelunk in the Bone Caves. One can also visit the wonders of Handa Island with its magnificent fauna, seabirds, and sandstone cliffs. A boat cruise is also an option for those who can never get enough of the sea splash and waves!

However, if you don’t prefer outdoor-oriented activities, check out the lively pubs and the Ullapool Museum to learn more about the village’s heritage and history. The historical and aesthetic Ullapool clock is also another sight worth seeing. It is located on Quay and Argyle Streets.

Where to stay in Ullapool? The Harbour House is one of the best stays to have on the NC500!

5. Clachtoll

Located in the county of Sutherland, Clachtoll is another fishing village worth seeing in the Northern Scottish Highlands. The town is situated in an area with deep history- the parish of Assynt. Facing the Bay of Clachtoll, this little paradise is full-packed of natural scenery, from picturesque mountains to pristine shores.

Enjoy water activities such as kayaking, rock jumping, swimming, and fishing. If you are into picnics and camping, it’s possible to enjoy these activities in the delicate seascape of the Clachtoll Beach Campsite. It is a fun, budget-friendly way to spend time with loved ones! If you are really lucky you may even spot some dolphins.

Where to stay near Clachtoll? The Smithy House & Cottages is a quaint beautiful little cottage in a fabulous area.

6. Cape Wrath

The elegant name of this location indeed lives up to what it offers. Cape Wrath is also located in Sutherland County, the most north-westerly area of mainland Great Britain. It is also iconic for being the area where the Scottish Northern and Western coasts rendezvous. Due to its remote geography, Cape Wrath is challenging to access as there is no direct road to it. One must catch a ferry to visit the spectacular place.

Cape Wrath, despite its remoteness, is teeming with the breathtaking swathe of the Atlantic Ocean, coastlines, and chilly wilderness. Aside from these majestic natural views, there is also a lighthouse to visit.

A cafe is also open for you to get a heartwarming coffee and pastry- just before you catch up with the bus tour. Cape Wrath is known to be a site of Special Scientific Interest and a place where rare bird species are protected.

7. Durness

Going to the northernmost parts of the Scottish Highlands, it’s worth visiting the northwestern village of Durness. Durness is the perfect spot for outdoorsy folks, wanderlusts, and sea lovers.

This thriving village in Sutherland boasts of its cerulean coastline, towering cliffs, bustling wildlife, luscious seaspray, and challenging Scotland hiking trails. The town’s remoteness and rich adventures here are just the perfect blends for someone who wants action and rejuvenation!

Durness is also famous for being primarily connected to John Lennon. There’s even a John Lennon Memorial Garden dedicated mainly to the famous musician! You can also check out the serene blueness of Rispond Beach and take an energizing swim.

For sports lovers, there’s the Durness Golf Club to check out. Meanwhile, hikers and outdoorsy folks can climb up Ben Stack and enjoy the majestic Sutherland view from the peak or have a picturesque picnic at the Smoo Caves, and exciting boat rides into the caves amidst clement weather.

Stay nearby at the Borgie Lodge Hotel

8. Thurso

Whenever you are not ready to leave Caithness yet, take the time to explore the town of Thurso, considered “the most northerly town in mainland Scotland,” which boasts delightful places and wonders to see and experience during your North Coast 500 adventure.

Thurso has plenty of cafes, traditional shops, and restaurants where you can enjoy a one-of-a-kind gastronomic and shopping experience. There is also the famous well-house of Meadow Well and the Swanson Gallery to visit.

If you’re lusting after outdoor thrills, Thurso offers lots of water sports, such as surfing and kayaking. There are plenty of beaches and a guarantee of lovely countryside at Geise Farm. The family-friendly farm is one of the best ways to bond with your loved ones while enjoying the company of nature.

Stay at the charming Creag Na Mara B&B in Thurso!

9. John O’Groats & Wick

Let the refreshing North Sea Breeze embrace you in John O’ Groats! Located in Sutherland, in the northeasternmost part of Britain, this stunning village is filled with history, natural wonders, heritage, and adventures for those who enter its borders.

John O’ Groats offers many activities tourists can enjoy, such as surfing, speedboat tours around the coastline, and a tour at the Castle of Mey, the official residence of the late Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother in Caithness. Other outdoor activities that you can enjoy are the three-kilometer coastal walks or a 40-minute trip to the Orkney Islands.

For those seeking some liquid activities, join an exciting distillery/brewery tour if you prefer indoor activities. There is also the John O’Groats Gallery, to get in touch with the local culture and art.

Consider staying at John O'Groats which provides epic sea views

10. Castle Sinclair and Girnigoe

The castles around the NC500 are out of this world. They’re majestic and historic, just like the ancient remains of the famous Castle Sinclair and Girnigoe. Located in the northern part of the town of Howick, it’s hard to miss as it’s perched close to the cliff’s edges.

This mysterious castle has a rich history and has undergone grand expansions, with its oldest parts dating back to the 15th century. It was expanded continuously until the siege of 1680, when it suffered severe damages, which made it uninhabited.

It continued to decay for 340 years, but in the early 21st century, it was restored through the Clan Sinclair Trust and became safe for visitors. Nowadays, it’s possible to access the ruins through a newly installed bridge. The castle grounds are open yearly, and they only ask for donations.

11. Helmsdale

When you’re still around Sutherland, don’t forget to visit this stunning village on the eastern coast. Helmsdale is a town that is famous for its salmon fishing and herrings! So, for fishing enthusiasts, this is another excellent spot to explore. River Helmsdale offers you an abundance to catch your first Scottish salmon!

During your stay, go swimming at Helmsdale Beach or explore the remains of Helmsdale Castle. You can also see and buy unique and beautiful trinkets at the Gifted shop to commemorate your trip to the Highlands. Deeply connect with the town’s unique culture and history by visiting the Timespan Museum and Arts Centre, The Emigrants Monument, and the Helmsdale War Memorial Clock Tower.

Ever fancied staying in yurt? Check out Tall Pines Yurt in Helmsdale.

12. Falls of Shin

The Falls of Shin boasts of breathtaking waterfalls. In addition to the spectacular sight, passersby can also witness the captivating leaping of salmon from the middle of May to late autumn. Salmon can be seen leaping up the shallow set of waterfalls as they prepare to spawn. 

After watching this natural phenomenon, relax and re-energize at the onsite café before you move on to your next destination.

13. Brora

Brora is a village situated on the east coast of Sutherland in the Highland region of Scotland. Although quite small, with a population of just over 1,200 people, it is a fantastic place to visit in Scotland if you’re looking for a quaint, peaceful destination with many things to do in Brora.

The village is widely known for being the home of the Highland League football team, but it’s also known for its small sandy beach, wildlife viewing, and beautiful hiking. Enjoy the beach, go on a distillery tour at Clynelish Distillery, or go paddleboarding on Lake Brora!

Easily the best place to stay is at the Royal Marine Hotel!

14. Dunrobin Castle

If you’re fascinated by castles and fairytale-like scenes, don’t miss the chance to visit the enchanting Dunrobin Castle in the county of Sutherland. With its magnificent spires, turrets, and gardens, Dunrobin is a fine piece of architecture in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. This 189-room castle is the Earl of Sutherland’s magnificent seat and is rooted in medieval times. 

The present castle and its sprawling, magical garden were the work of the famous British architect Sir Charles Barry during the 19th century. The garden is said to be inspired by the Palace of Versailles and there is also a museum and falconry to check out. The castle is open to visitors every year between April and October.

Nearby in Brora you can call a small pod home at the North Coast 500 pods.

15. Dornoch Firth & Cromarty Firth

If you love the coastal area, a trip to Dornoch Firth & Cromarty Firth must be in your list of North Coast 500 best stops. From the historic Dornoch Firth Bridge to the more modern feel of Cromarty Firth, you’ll never get tired of taking in the beautiful scenery. Be sure to have your camera ready and capture every moment. 

Meanwhile, history geeks can explore numerous museums and heritage sites like the Tain and District Museum and the Nigg Old Church which dates back to the 8^th century.

Boasting garden views in Dornoch Firth, Clashmore Wood features accommodation with a terrace.

The Best Castles Along the North Coast 500 Route

There are many castles along the North Coast 500 route (or not far off of it) that you may want to visit!

1. Castle of Mey
2. Dunrobin Castle
3. Eilean Donan Castle
4. Inverness Castle
5. Slains Castle
6. Cawdor Castle
7. Dunvegan Castle

The Best Beaches on the NC500

1. Balnakeil Beach
2. Dornoch Beach
3. Dunnet Bay Beach
4. Oldshoremore Beach
5. Brora Beach

Tips to Make The Most Out of The NC500

1. Plan your route and make accommodations in advance, especially in the summer. The NC500 is a popular route and accommodation is limited. Come without reservations in August and you might be sleeping in the car.
2. Take your time and allow for plenty of breaks. The NC500 is a long drive and there are many scenic stops and attractions along the way. They are all well worth a stop and photo ops.
3. Know how to drive in Scotland – or learn quickly! The roads on the NC500 can be winding and narrow, and you’ll need to pay extra attention while driving in Scotland.
4. Respect the local wildlife and environment. The NC500 passes through some of the most beautiful and unspoiled areas of Scotland. Watch for livestock on the roads!

Fun Experiences on the North Coast 500 Route

• Have a Drink at the Black Isle Brewery
• Rock Rose Gin Tour
• Explore Smoo Caves
• Zip Line Adventure with Golden Eagle Zip Line near Durness
• Visit Corrieshalloch Gorge
• Canoe with Ewe Canoe
• Take to the hills with Colin Murdoch from Reraig Forest

Extend Your NC500 Trip to the Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye probably has the best scenery in the whole of Scotland and can easily be added onto a North Coast 500 trip. It’s a short drive from the Applecross Peninsula and offers plenty of things to do.

We recommend spending 3-4 days on the Isle of Skye alone, however, even if you only have one extra day it’s worth adding it onto your Nort Coast 500 Route.

Transport Around Scotland

Most trips to Scotland will start and end at Edinburgh Airport. The best way to travel around Scotland is with a rental car, especially if you’re traveling with a group. Driving in Scotland is no joke and it’s important to realize that before you rent a vehicle. For starters, the Scots drive on the left side of the road, with the steering wheel on the right.

Second, instead of stop lights and signs to idle at most of the roads in Scotland run smoothly because of roundabouts.

Third and most important – the roads on the North Coast 500 are often small single-track roads fit for just one vehicle at a time. There are passing points every 400 meters or so to let oncoming traffic get through. The car closest to a passing point should be the one to yield. Book your rental car far in advance to get the best rate, you can always cancel later if you find a better rate!

My favorites to look at are:

• RentalCars.com: Provides comparisons for car rentals in Europe.
• AutoEurope: I can often find deals here for car rentals in Europe.
• Discover Car Hire: Searches rental car prices around the globe.

13 Car Rental Scotland Tips To Know BEFORE You Go

Internet in Scotland

If you want to stay connected while in Scotland, I recommend picking up a SIM card and purchasing data when you arrive. We personally purchased 12 GB of data for £20 with Three. 

Their coverage extended into patches of the highlands and allowed us to, at the very least, check our emails, Instagram, and Facebook each day. Other comparable telecom companies in the UK include O2 and Vodafone. You will not have service the entire route. If you want to save time and don’t care about the cost, look at an Airalo eSIM, which is slightly more expensive, but allows you to have coverage as soon as you land.

When is the Best Season to Drive the NC500?

High season (July-September)

Like most places in Europe, Scotland’s high season runs from July to mid-September. This is when you will find the best weather as noted above, but also crowds. Days are longer, the weather is warmer, and hotel and car rental prices are at their highest. Accommodation along the NC500 can book up quickly, make sure to book well in advance.

Shoulder Season (May-June and Late September-November)

We’ve traveled to Scotland during the shoulder season and loved it. The weather is cool, the leaves are orange and yellow, and the vibe in the air is wonderful. This is also when we’ve found great deals on car rentals and guesthouses. However, popular places like Glasgow and Skye were very busy. We saw sunny days, but also had a lot of those rainy Scotland overcast days.

Low Season (November-April)

The temperatures are cooler during the low season in Scotland and you stand a very strong chance of getting caught in a rain (or snow) storm. If you plan to travel to Scotland during this time you absolutely need a packable rain jacket, travel umbrella, and waterproof boots. The upside is you’ll find low prices and low numbers of tourists. If you are in Scotland over the holidays make sure to take part in the festivals around the cities!

Where to Stay on the North Coast 500?

Kingsmills Hotel – Inverness

Pretty much every North Coast 500 road trip starts or ends in the highland capital of Inverness. Accommodation is limited for the demand, but those lucky enough to book in advance can score rooms at the Kingsmills Hotel. Kingsmill is one of the best places to stay in the city. The hotel offers wonderful service based out of a 17th Century residence.

Natural Retreats – John O’ Groats

This is probably one of the coolest places to stay when it comes to accommodation in Scotland. These glass-faced self-catering apartments are located in the most Northernly town in Scotland, John O’ Groats, on the British Isle.

Old Drynie House – Black Isle

This was actually the first “true” bed and breakfast we have stayed at together (even after 60 countries!). It was a splendid experience and the character of a well run Scottish bed and breakfast makes it a must for anyone traveling the North Coast 500.

Royal Marine Hotel – Brora

Upon arrival at the Royal Marine Hotel, you’ll be treated to classic Highland hospitality before being led to your lovely and comfortable home away from home. Unwind in your well-equipped guest room or venture outside to explore the grounds or the beautiful beach that is only a few minutes away. 

What to Pack for the NC500

Wondering what to wear in Scotland? The country’s weather is pretty notorious so it’s only natural that the question of what to pack for Scotland comes up a lot. With that in mind, you should be prepared as you’ll end up spending much of your time in Scotland outside enjoying its beautiful cities and breathtaking landscapes.

Scotland is brimming with old walking paths, ancient mountains, deep lakes, winding roads, rocky coastlines, castles, millions of sheep, barrels of whisky, and charming towns it’s the perfect place to lose yourself. It should be no surprise that Scotland is one of our favorite countries in the world. It’s more or less the big brother to Ireland with grander landscapes, prettier cities, more history, and one hell of a culture — kilts and bagpipes are awesome.

Wildlife to Be Aware of In Scotland

• Highland Cows: Wildlife in Scotland is so vast. Obviously, there is the highland cow which is an iconic picture of the highlands. You’ll find them all along the route! Be careful and watch for them crossing the road.
• Stags and Deer: Deer and Stags are fairly popular across Scotland and there is still a huge hunting community
• Puffins: Puffins can be found from late March and early April until August and nest on coastal clifftops. The biggest colony is on the island of St Kilda, but they could be spotted on the eastern cliffs from North Berwick to Berwick-on-Tweed and also from Galloway to Wick. When driving along in Scotland, it is not uncommon to see birds of prey across the sky either!
• Midges: Not sure how much you would class it as wildlife, but I’ve mentioned midges already but these deserve it again. Before we traveled to Scotland, I didn’t realize how bad the midges actually would be, and they can be wretched depending on your season of travel (particularly in the summertime). Grab some smidge if they are driving you crazy.

These hesitations are all valid, especially if you are driving in Scotland as an American. Though keep in mind that all signs are in English, and all the speeds are probably about what you’re used to. While the UK has one of the densest rail networks anywhere in the world, we think there’s no better way to explore Scotland than renting a car and getting on the road. This is especially true if you plan on heading to the more remote parts of Scotland – including its many island groups and the North Coast 500 route – that the railways simply don’t reach.

And while organized tours certainly have their place, we love the freedom and opportunities that self-driving in Scotland offers.

Read on to discover all the inside info you need to know! No – you don’t need prior driving experience in Scotland to tackle an epic Scottish road trip!

Psst - Discover Car Hire is my preferred car rental company for driving in Scotland. Click to compare rates!

Tips for Driving in Scotland

What do you Need to drive in Scotland?

Good news! Visitors to Scotland can drive for up to one calendar year with a standard US driving license. If you can drive a car in the US, you can also drive the same type of car in Scotland!

The only thing you need to drive in Scotland is insurance, which is a legal requirement. If using the car of a friend or family member, they will need third-party insurance (allowing anyone to drive their vehicle), while rental cars will come with their own insurance policies. It’s best to have a passport on you when renting a car in Scotland.

It’s also a legal requirement in Scotland to wear a seat belt/safety belt at all times, irrespective of whether you are the driver or a passenger. The police are authorized to fine anyone who isn’t wearing a seat belt, and if you don’t pay the ticket, a warrant can be issued for your arrest.

There is no statute of limitation on this warrant, so any return visit to the UK (or presently any EU nation) could land you with a visit from the police – and an even heftier fine. Moral of the story? Just wear a seatbelt.

Where Do You Rent a Car in Scotland?

Search online for the best car rental deals before you arrive in Scotland. I generally like to check comparison sites so I can get the best prices. My favorites to look at are:

• Discover Car Hire: My preferred car rental company for driving in Scotland.
• RentalCars.com: Provides comparisons for car rentals in Scotland.
• AutoEurope: I can often find deals here for car rentals in Europe.

Cell Phones and Driving in Scotland

Fines are also given out to those who use their cell phones when driving. It is only permitted to receive calls if you are using a hands-free kit that doesn’t require you to take your hands from the wheel.

Even so, we’d strongly recommend avoiding using your cell at all when driving, since you’ll be traveling along roads that are new to you. If you plan to use your cell phone as a navigation aid, you will need to find a way of placing it securely on the windscreen or have someone look after it for you. We recommend a good car dash holder.

You Drive on the Left in Scotland

If you plan on driving in Scotland as an American, or from any other country where you typically drive on the right, note that Scotland is different.

When you go on a Scotland drive, you’ll see that you must drive on the left. All four countries that comprise the UK (Scotland, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland) drive on the left-hand side of the road – unlike the US and most of continental Europe.

We found it surprisingly easy to adapt to the change, perhaps because everything inside the vehicle is ‘reversed’ too. But watch out on quiet roads or when approaching roundabouts or other junctions; it’s easy to relapse into what you’re used to doing at home!

You’ll find the steering wheel on the vehicle’s right-hand side and the gear shift in manual transmission cars on the driver’s left, alongside the parking brake. However, the order of the pedals remains the same as in North America and most of the EU: namely clutch (for manual vehicles), foot brake, and gas pedal, from left to right. (The gas pedal is usually known as the accelerator pedal, and the trunk is known as the boot.)

At roundabouts, give way to traffic on your right-hand side. If there is no traffic on your right, it is your right of way, and you can proceed with caution. Don’t forget to initially turn left around the roundabout!

Know Your Vehicle

Make sure you’re satisfied with your vehicle before you embark on any journey. You’ll already be slightly more nervous than normal about driving on the other side of the road, and you don’t want to make things more stressful by not being able to find what you need later on.

Most vehicles in Scotland are manual transmission, meaning you’ll need to shift gears yourself. Automatics are available if you’re renting a car in Scotland and not confident using a manual. Make sure you note that you want an automatic car clear at the time of booking – they often cost extra.

As a mental checklist, ask if you know how to operate the headlights, indicator lights, and hazard lights. Also make sure you know how to engage reverse gear, which can require pushing down a button or similar, which isn’t always immediately apparent.

While it’s also worth knowing where the vehicle’s horn is, drivers in Scotland use their horn only sparingly when it is absolutely necessary to avoid an accident or draw attention to something urgently.

Distances and Speeds to Know

Distances and speeds are measured in miles, just like in the US. The speed limit is usually signposted on each new stretch of road or change in speed. Look out for round white signs with a red edge and a number in the center.

If in doubt about the speed of a particular stretch of road, you can use the following basic rules: motorways – the Scottish equivalent of highways – are denoted by an M. For instance, the M8 runs between Edinburgh and Glasgow. All motorways have a maximum speed limit of 70 mph (60mph for those towing caravans or trailers), although over-road signage may reduce this given traffic or weather conditions. They are colored blue on maps and road signs.

The same speed limit is in force for dual carriageways (mini two-lane highways). Outside of built-up areas, the speed limit is generally 50 mph, while in more urban areas (anywhere with street lighting), the maximum speed is typically 30 mph – although around schools it can be as low as 20 mph.

Speed limits are limits, not targets; only drive as fast as feels safe. Try not to worry if locals who know the roads better than you pass you at a safe place on the road.

Narrow Roads in Scotland

You may have heard that some roads in Scotland are pretty dang narrow. Some rural roads may be single lane (and roads tend to be quite small compared to those in the US). There will generally be passing places that allow cars to pull aside to allow vehicles coming in the opposite direction to pass. (Speaking of which, don’t park in passing places – only ever use dedicated parking spaces.)

If you’re going slower than the cars behind you, it’s polite to get over and let them pass you (as long as everyone is within the speed limits of course).

On narrow single-track roads, where there’s insufficient room for a head-on pass, it’s crucial to be mindful, especially when visibility is limited. Exercise caution by reducing speed well before approaching hills and concealed turns, allowing ample time for thoughtful anticipation and observation of oncoming traffic.

Getting Fuel in Scotland

Cars in Scotland can use either gas (known as petrol) or diesel. Definitely don’t get these confused! Rental cars will often have a sticker beside the filler cap of the fuel tank to remind you, but not always, so never assume.

Although gas stations are called petrol stations, they sell both gas and diesel. Unlike in the US, if you see a gas station, you can be sure they sell diesel too. All gas is unleaded with green pump handles, while diesel pumps are colored black.

Gas stations are pretty easy to find and look much the same as those throughout the rest of the world. Many in town and city centers, such as in Edinburgh or Glasgow, are open 24 hours a day. Elsewhere, they will be open from early morning until late at night. In more rural areas, gas stations are less numerous, so it’s wise to fill up when you see one.

Those in the countryside also tend to be locally-run rather than operated by large gas companies, but this does not affect the quality of the fuel. You’ll pay the highest prices on highways.

Fuel is significantly more expensive than in the US – try not to look shocked when you first fill up. Unlike in the US, fuel is sold by the liter. You can fill up your tank entirely or fill up to a certain price or volume by eye. Gas pumps are mostly self-service: drive up, fill your tank, and then pay. Most times you’ll need to go inside to pay; just tell the cashier the pump number or point through the window.

Parking and Other Costs of Driving in Scotland

Finding a parking space in a busy city center at peak times can be a bit of a trial for everyone. Parking areas on the road itself can be identified by bays marked out on the road surface with white paint. You’ll need to make sure all four wheels of your vehicle are inside the bay, and it’s considered polite to avoid using a bay which is too small for your car, even if all four wheels are squeezed in. Towns and cities will often have signposted car parks and multi-story car parks. 

Whether parking spaces are free to use or require a ticket is down to individual councils. Privately operated public car parks (the largest operator of which is NCP) are sadly never free.

Having parked up in a bay, you will need to buy a ticket from a meter/machine. Some will make you pay for a certain length of time, while others will provide you with a barcoded/time-stamped ticket with the cost calculated when you plan to leave the space. Parking in hotels (if you’re a guest) and at tourist sights can sometimes be free, but in the city centers you’ll probably have to pay for a car park even at your hotel.

An average cost is £20/night. Outside of the major towns and cities, where credit cards might be accepted, expect to have to pay for parking with coins in British pounds sterling.

Since the Scottish Government did away with tolls in 2008, there are no toll roads or toll bridges in Scotland. Even Scotland’s highways (motorways) are free to use.

Driving in Scotland in the Winter

The joke goes that driving in winter refers to driving in Scotland at any time of year – except for one week in August. This joke highlights the fact that weather conditions can change quickly at any time of year. After driving around Scotland in early October I can definitely say this is true.

Scotland is not immune to snowfall; it snows for about 15 to 20 days during the winter months of December to February. That said, snowfall is normally nowhere near what you might be used to in Austria, or elsewhere in Europe and rarely affects road travel for long.

Long winter nights (when the sun can set as early as 3 pm) and foggy days are much more of a hazard. The best advice is to drive extra carefully at these times, and if you are scared or hesitant, avoid long road trips.

Drinking and Driving in Scotland

It is a Scottish fact, that Scotland has some of the most stringent drink-drive laws in the world. They are even tighter than those south of the border in England – a point worth noting if you will be driving between the two countries.

The legal limit in Scotland is 22 micrograms of alcohol per 100 milliliters of breath (or 50 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood). This is equivalent to less than one pint of beer, and less than one glass of wine. It’s taken quite a hit on restaurants and bars as most people who would usually enjoy a glass of wine or two at dinner are now sticking to water. The good news is it has drastically reduced the amount of drunk driving accidents.

Police carry portable breathalyzer kits and can request to test any driver they suspect of being over the limit. Refusing a roadside breathalyzer test is a serious offense in Scotland and will result in your arrest. If necessary, you can be forced by the courts to give a blood sample.

Timing Tips for Driving in Scotland

Roads are at their busiest during the peak hours of 7:30 – 9:30 in the morning and 4:00 – 6:30 in the evening especially in the cities when most people are commuting to or from work. Even during quieter periods of the day, there will probably be more traffic than you are used to at home, since Scotland is quite a densely populated country for its size. It’s best to keep up with Traffic Scotland to get live traffic information.

However when you are in the countryside, it’s quite easy to get off the beaten path and away from other vehicles.

Are you Planning on Crossing into England?

Should you be planning to cross into England at any point, you can do this without issue; there are no customs or immigration checks between the two countries. If you miss the road sign welcoming you to either country, you won’t even realize you’ve crossed a national border!

Don’t Drive in the Bus Lanes

Do not drive in dedicated bus lanes that can be found in towns and cities, and avoid coming to a stop in yellow cross-hatch areas, which demark areas of congestion that should be kept clear at all times.

Watch Out for the Highland Cows!

Plenty of sheep, cows, and even deer roam the Scottish countryside so mind your speed and give these animals the space they deserve. You might come across a few of them on the road!

That’s it; we told you it was simple! From distances and speeds to fuel and parking considerations, we’ve given you all our tips on driving in Scotland. Now you are equipped with road-tripping to some of the best areas of Scotland. What else can we say but have a great time! See here for information on renting a car in Scotland.

Above all, enjoy driving in Scotland. We can’t wait for you to take it all in!

Plus, it has the most welcoming locals and one heck of a culture — kilts, clans, and bagpipes are fantastic. It’s the perfect place to lose yourself in nature. In this post, we’ll share some packing suggestions and what to wear in Scotland. Ultimately, you should be able to build your packing list for Scotland.

What Should You Wear In Scotland?

There are several staple items that I recommend everyone pack for their trip to Scotland. Scotland is well known for its wild weather, and that will play a significant role in what you throw in your backpack or suitcase. As one should expect on an extended trip to Scotland, we’ve seen the craziest wind and rain in the Scottish Highlands.

Layers are not usually the most fashionable thing to wear, but they fend off the Scottish weather. Pack a sweater, rain jacket, water-resistant pants, leather boots, and a hat as a standard outfit. The outfit is the perfect complement and, when done right, looks nice out exploring the mountains.

The odd exception is like a night out in Edinburgh, a fine meal in a castle, or an international festival. Scotland has some beautiful resorts, and the cities have many events, shows, and restaurants, so having a nice outfit or two is a good idea.

That would mean a dress for women and men should pack chinos or even a suit. It all depends on your age, plans, and personal style. However, most days in the country are very relaxed, so pack practically.

What’s The Weather Like in Scotland?

It’s often said of the weather in Scotland that you can receive all four seasons in just one day. It can be sunny and hot in the morning, but it can be cold rain with a strong wind and perhaps even hail by noon. The weather here is notorious, but on average, it’s a very moderate climate with four seasons.

Thanks to the Gulf Stream, summers are never hot, nor are winters frigid. The average summertime temperature ranges from 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63 °F). While in the winter, the average temperatures float around 5°C (41°F).

Scotland is relatively easy to pack for a trip once you cover the need for rain protection. Travelers to Scotland will spend most of their time outside, so focus on comfort. On an extended trip, you’ll likely see all types of weather, including a glorious sunny day or two!

It’s important not to let the poor weather deter you. There’s no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes.

Seasons in Scotland

Tips To Pack For Scotland

• Rain gear is always a good idea to pack, which means a rain jacket, umbrella, and weatherproof boots.
• Packing cubes help separate damp and dirty clothes from clean ones.
• Three pairs of shoes are the max you should pack—a nice shoe, casual, and athletic shoe/boot.
• Scotland is a relaxed place, so there is no need for fancy clothes unless you’re staying at one of the famed golf resorts.
• It’s almost always sweater weather, so pack your favorite wool sweater or cardigan.
• A scarf and hat are a great way to warm up if a chill in the air.
• It’s not always cold. Summers can be warm and have amazing weather. Be sure to check the weather beforehand and pack some warm-weather clothes. We’ve had amazing weather on trips and weather that makes us question Scotland altogether.

27 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

Essential Documents To Pack

• Passport – This is obvious, but you won’t make it far without a passport.
• Credit Cards – We use several travel credit cards offering purchase protection, rewards, and no foreign transaction fees.
• Visa – Make sure you have a visa if you need one.
• Debit Cards – It’s good to carry Pounds in Scotland. We never bother with money exchanges that provide awful exchange rates. Instead, we rely on the ATM when we arrive. Charles Schwab, Ally, and Capital One offer low or no foreign transaction fees.
• Driving License – If you plan to rent a car, you will need your driver’s license, plus it never hurts to have a second form of I.D. You may need an IDP translation to English if your license is not in English.

What Luggage To Bring For Scotland?

Hardshell Suitcase

Travel Backpack

I have two bag recommendations for a trip to Scotland. You can opt for a traditional hardshell suitcase with four wheels or a travel backpack. Suitcases with four wheels are best as the ability to roll sideways down the aisle of a train or a sidewalk makes life a lot easier.

We prefer hardshell as it does a better job at protection and security. Our favorite hardshell suitcase is the Delsey Helium Aero 25″. Travel backpacks are great for young backpackers, digital nomads, or minimalists! They are also great if you want to save on any checked bag fees your air carrier may charge. Packing cubes are phenomenal at organizing and separating dirty clothes, and our favorites are from Peak Design.

If paying for taxis or car rentals makes you hesitant, you’ll want to book accommodation near public transport or have a backpack. Our favorites are the Osprey travel backpacks, men’s Farpoint, and women’s Fairview. For more suggestions, read our post on the best backpacks for Europe.

What to Pack for Scotland

Wool Sweater

If there is one article of clothing made for travel in Scotland, it’s the wool sweater. Sweaters can make a great travel outfit staple. They’re comfortable, stylish, and warm. The season doesn’t matter, as most of Scotland is temperate and remains cool year-round. It means comfortable daytime temperatures during the day and chilly evenings in the summer.

Scotland has some terrific wool and sweater producers, but it may take a bit of digging. We purchased wool sweaters from independent retailers in Edinburgh, but a good one is tough to find. Most major tourist shops sell cheap Chinese versions. So it’s best to have at least one sweater packed in the suitcase for your trip.

Flannel Shirt

It’s tough to say what’s more comfortable, a flannel shirt or a wool sweater. While flannel shirts originate from Wales, their classic plaid pattern is Scottish, so it does feel fitting to wear one in Scotland. A flannel strikes the perfect balance of practicality and style while in Scotland.

You won’t find many Scots wearing them in the city streets, but these shirts are perfect for exploring the country’s awe-inspiring landscapes. One could argue that the Scottish Highlands are some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth. Patagonia’s Fjord Flannel is one of their signature products and a wardrobe staple.

T-Shirt or V Neck

A classic tee will never go out of style. It’s best to stick with solid colors like black, white, or grey. There’s also the option of a v-neck for a more stylish look, but it all depends on personal preference. Scotland may not be known for its warm weather, but it does see some lovely summer days. Hiking on a sunny day in the Scottish highlands can be pretty warm, and you’ll want to shed layers quickly.

A wool shirt is a worthy investment and one of the best pieces of travel clothes. Wool shirts stay fresh longer and do an excellent job at temperature management. I’ve tested a lot of wool shirts out, and my favorite for travel so far is from Unbound Merino. Men should also check out Western Rise for their wool shirts, as they’re tremendous.

We suggest you keep it simple when it comes to tees. No one needs a fancy designer tee as a base layer. Cameron prefers the grey as it’s easy to stain the white ones. We love the quality and ease of ordering from Bombas if you’re after a classic cotton tee.

Jeans

Jeans go with anything; despite the notion they are “American” casual, the right pair is attractive. For the most part, the Scots do not care what you wear, but showing up to the pub in damp outdoor wear isn’t usual. Jeans are a fashion staple but aren’t the best packing pants. However, travelers have options, such as DU/ER jeans. The organic cotton jeans look sharp, but the blend of polyester and spandex allows the jeans to stretch.

Fit is exceptional, with a slim fit throughout the leg. You can comfortably wear the jeans on long travel days without any discomfort. Thanks to the synthetic blend, they’re great for lengthy trips as there is no need to wash the jeans. An easy favorite for anyone seeking new travel clothes.

Hiking Pants or Shorts

Technical pants like hiking pants are water-resistant and dry quickly, not to mention they’re comfortable on long walks. Traditionally, these pants were pretty ugly, but now times are changing, and pants look similar to chinos or khakis. If you plan to spend time outside in the Scottish countryside, I suggest adding these to your Scottish attire.

We have two excellent recommendations for pants from Kuhl: the men’s Renegade Rock Pants and the women’s Freeflex Pants. These pants won’t hold up in truly heinous weather, so if hunkering down for a few hours isn’t your cup of tea, consider these rain pants from Outdoor Research or softshell pants from Arc’teryx.

Chinos

If you plan to spend time in Edinburgh, I’d suggest you have some clothes that are appropriate for city exploring. A pair of chinos works on both sexes. It’s a classic look that works well in Scotland when combined with a sweater. I always pack a pair of these pants in my bag! Western Rise specializes in men’s travel clothes and makes some awesome pants, shirts, and travel clothes. Their travel clothes are all comfortable, wrinkle-resistant, and stain-resistant. Amazing for travel!

Rain Jacket

Right after you pack your wool sweater, reach for a rain jacket. If we were taking bets, we’d make a substantial wager you’ll see some rain during your trip to Scotland. It doesn’t get that green without plenty of rain.

We suggest a packable rain jacket made for the outdoors/hiking. Hiking jackets are lightweight, durable, packable, waterproof, and windproof. Any rain jacket will do, but the top-dollar ones designed for the outdoors will hold up and help in inclement weather. They also do an exceptional job at blocking the wind, which can be unrelenting.

Down Jacket

In the summer, travelers can probably get by with a wool sweater and rain jacket to stay warm. Outside of the summer, a down jacket is an excellent idea. We recommend a packable down jacket on a trip with cool weather since they’re versatile.

With a destination like Scotland, they are a great way to keep warm without eating up too much space in your luggage. If you prefer a more stylish jacket option, a peacoat is a classic wardrobe choice, but it’s cumbersome, so you’ll need to wear it on the plane.

Thermal Layers

It is a wee bit chilly in Scotland from about late September to April, and thermals will help retain heat. Most days, you’ll be fine without thermals, but on those days where the weather is truly foul, they’re a lifesaver. If you plan to travel to Scotland outside the summer months, it may be a good idea to pack a set.

We recommend they fit snugly, and they are a noncotton material like nylon or wool for base layers. We’ve had a lot of base layers, but our favorites are wool-based layers from Helly Hansen, Smartwool, Black Diamond, and yak wool from Kora.

Fleece Leggings

As mentioned it gets chilly in Scotland, especially come October until about April. While thermals are fantastic they are meant to be worn under your main layer. That’s when I turn to fleece-lined leggings in chilly weather. Fleece lined leggings are perfect to wear like regular leggings, and go with any sweater or jacket you have!

These are great for warmth, and abrasion resistance and even have hidden reflective in hem turn ups to always stay visible. These are tightly knitted to look sharp on the outside, but fleece-lined on the inside. If you get the odd snowday, these are also perfect! The Crash tights come in different colors, but my favorite is the solid black since they go with everything.

Scarf and Hat

A scarf and hat are travel staples and a great wardrobe choice for women and men traveling in Scotland. They act as an accessory to your outfit, and they’re super comfortable with an added layer of warmth. Scotland is known for its windy days, so a scarf and hat are lovely at protecting your neck and head.

Scarves are incredibly fabulous for travelers: They can spice up an outfit that you’ve already worn three days in a row and can be thrown into a bag or purse to pull out when the sun sets and the weather gets chilly.

Sneakers

Hitting the sidewalk and letting the city or town unfurl around you is one of the best ways to get familiar with a new destination. A comfortable pair of shoes for both men and women are essential when packing your bag for Scotland.

I wouldn’t recommend those terrible clunky hiking shoes or athletic shoes many tourists like to bring. Since most of Scotland’s towns and cities are wonderful for walking around, we suggest packing good walking shoes. Our favorite travel sneakers are Allbirds Wool Runners because they’re sustainable, cozy, simple, and super comfortable. You can read our in-depth review of Allbirds here.

Leather Boots

These are great all year round as you can never go wrong with a pair of leather boots. Women can wear them with a pair of chinos and a blouse, while men can pair them with just about anything from jeans, chinos, and even a suit.

It’s wet and boggy in Scotland, and you can expect a lot of rainy weather so packing a pair of good hiking boots for hikes is crucial for protecting your feet. Locals like to wear “Wellies” or Wellington Boots which are big rubber boots. We were fine in a decent pair of boots because we stayed off farms and the really deep stuff.

I’m a leather boot fiend and love a classic boot. If you’re looking for the best boots for Scotland, check out an affordable option like Clark’s or Timberland for leather boots. If you want quality boots to last a lifetime check out Chippewa, Danner, or Red Wing boots manufactured in the United States.

Wool Socks

We’ve learned to love our feet with a good pair of socks. You will want to keep your feet nice and dry while you walk around. Most importantly, wool socks stay fresh for several days as they have natural antimicrobial properties. We travel with a couple of wool socks from Darn Tough, Smartwool, and Farm To Feet.

Scotland Packing List for Women

Peacoat

If you want a stylish look that will keep you warm, I’d suggest picking up a peacoat. A peacoat is excellent for providing warmth and looking great. While we love our down jackets for their warmth and convenience, they aren’t the best looking things in the world, and you’d look pretty silly wearing one with a dress or suit.

Long Sleeve Cardigan

A cardigan is one of my favorite items to wear in Scotland. A cardigan has a great relaxed style and look, plus it keeps you warm. They’re also light enough to eat up minimal room in the suitcase. I pack one during any season in Scotland as you can wear it with a coat in winter, and it’s rarely too warm in the summer.

Blouse

While Scotland is casual, people are still presentable in public. You’ll see most women will wear a nice dress shirt, blouse, or sweater on colder days. Should you get the rare warm summer day, they’ll bust out the summer dress. Most women should shy away from graphic tees or short-sleeved shirts; instead, wear a light blouse. It’s a perfect item to wear in the summer as the fitting blouse is super cool and comfortable.

Dress Or Jumpsuit

There are plenty of reasons to get dressed up in Scotland. While the majority of Scotland is a laidback place there are still wonderful restaurants, bars, theaters, and resorts. No matter the destination we always recommend women pack a dress or a romper.

Rompers are probably one of my favorite travel outfits because they’re stylish, comfortable, and practical. You really can’t go wrong here, and I’d suggest throwing at least one or two rompers in your suitcase for Scotland. We love Patagonia’s Fleetwith Romper and Salty Crush dresses for travel!

Black Flats

A pair of black flats is always great to have in a suitcase. They’re stylish comfortable, and they take up minimal space in your luggage. My tip, stay away from heels, many towns have cobblestone streets, and you don’t want to break an ankle trying to look good. Just let the locals impress you with their skills of walking in heels.

Sports Bras

Scotland has several great hikes and adventure activities. I always bring a sports bra when I’m traveling. It’s easy to forget to bring a sports bra as you might not head to the gym, but they’re tremendous for active days. We love sports bras from Handful (Use code TWP20 for 20% off)! Of course, you should pack your usual undergarments like bras and underwear; it’s just easier to forget a sports bra.

Men’s Scotland Packing List

Peacoat

A stylish peacoat will keep you warm. While we love our down jackets for their warmth and convenience, they aren’t the best looking things in the world, and you’d look pretty silly wearing one with a dress or suit.

Dress Shirt/Chinos

You’d look pretty ridiculous wearing a T-shirt or a flannel out to a nice meal in Glasgow. It’s a great idea to travel with at least one nice outfit that fits your style. Your travel plans in Scotland will also have an enormous impact. Western Rise makes travel-specific men’s dress clothes that are wrinkle and stain-resistant. They also make a great gift!

Henley

A henley is a great clothing choice for Scotland. It’s lightweight yet provides some warmth from the wind, and it’s more appropriate than a long sleeve graphic shirt or technical clothing.

Accessories For Scotland

Travel Adaptor

You will need an adaptor for your electronics on your packing list for Scotland. We always keep one handy in our carry-on bags; we can charge electronics on arrival or at the airport. You’ll need the British “Type G” three-prong adaptor for the United Kingdom. However, most of Europe uses the Type C, F, and E adaptor. Check out the one I have, which is suitable for all of Europe.

Sunglasses

Despite preconceived notions, Scotland does occasionally have sunny days. There are a lot of options for sunglasses, and everyone should own at least one pair. It’s best to make sure they do have UV protection for the health of your eyes. We made our first investment in quality polarized sunglasses with a pair of SMITH Optics Lowdown 2. Of course, there are always more affordable options!

Daypack

You’ll need something to stash your photography gear, hand sanitizers, papers, phones, and anything else that you need for a full day out when traveling. As photographers and digital nomads our favorite daypack is from Peak Design.

Travel Towel

We always recommend bringing a travel towel when you’re on the road. Scotland is no exception. If you plan on staying in hostels or more budget accommodation, you’ll often need your towel. Consider a towel essential for your Scotland packing list.

Camera

A high-quality camera is an essential packing item for Scotland if you want some great shots while on your vacation We travel with many cameras. Still, the one we universally recommend is the RX 100. They make several models at different price points, but it’s simple to use a point-and-shoot camera that anyone can operate. It also takes superb images with a 20mp resolution and full manual controls

Kindle Paperwhite

While I love having a perfect book when I sometimes travel, it’s just not practical because of the weight. I’ve recently switched to a Kindle Paperwhite, which is small and compact, plus it has a backlight for reading at night without a harsh glare. It’s tough to beat the feeling of warming up next to a wood stove with a cuppa tea and a good book.

 Portable Charger

I love traveling with a power bank to make sure my phone never dies. Most of the time, I don’t need to use it on long flights as some of the more excellent airlines provide entertainment systems with USB ports! We also make sure to find a charging point during layovers, but getting to a new city without your hotel reservations and map can be a significant pain in the ass.

Scotland Guidebook

We spend enough time attached to our phones in everyday life and planning our trips. Once we reach a destination like Scotland, we put the phone away and pick up a guidebook to help with our trip.

Travel Pillow

We’ve suffered through enough red-eye flights never to forget to pack a travel pillow for international flights. My favorite travel pillow is the Cabeau Evolution Pillow, but we break down more of our favorite travel pillows here.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are great for any backpack or suitcase. They keep all of your clothes and toiletries organized. I’ve had these Eagle Creek cubes for three years now and think they were worth the investment to stay organized and create space in my luggage.

Passport Holder

For the women, I suggest traveling with an anti-theft purse that is black and stylish to hold belongings. Cameron has an excellent passport wallet with his passport and credit cards, so he never leaves it anywhere.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

It’s always a good idea to keep your toiletries organized and separated from your clothes. So we love always travel with a toiletry bag; however, Scottish bathrooms can be cramped and small. If you find limited counter space, a great option is to buy a hanging toiletry bag. This bag style tends to have a better organization system with various sections for storage than the traditional option.

You Need This To Travel in Scotland!

Travel Insurance

We never travel without travel insurance with Hey Mondo.  Natasha is a bit of a worrywart and would rather stay safe than sorry. Heymondo offers incredible flexibility and great plans! You never know if the worse could happen while you’re abroad, and your insurance plan at home often will not cover medical emergencies abroad. Having the peace of mind that we have a good backup plan helps us sleep at night.

What Not to Wear in Scotland?

Fanny Pack

It shouldn’t need to be said, but please do not wear a fanny pack.

Athletic Wear

We touched on this earlier, but athletic clothes are meant for the gym or being active. Walking around in a pair of athletic shorts, tank top, or running shoes isn’t common in Scotland, especially in cities. Please don’t get me wrong, you can wear what you want when it’s hot out, but you’ll be pegged as a tourist.

Shorts

For the most part, you’ll find shorts on very few Scottish, as in almost none. That being said, attitudes are changing, and with global warming, I’m sure they’ll warm up to the idea, pun intended.

White Athletic Socks

Europeans don’t often wear white socks. Try to wear patterns, black socks, or to match your socks to your pants.

Packing For Scottish Weather

Scotland is a tiny country; however, regions can vary significantly in weather conditions between short distances. It all has to do with the notoriously unpredictable weather in Scotland.

What to wear in Scotland in the Spring?

The springtime can be one of the best seasons to visit Scotland as temperatures are mild and range from 7°C (45°F) to 13 °C (55°F). It’s an excellent time to catch some sun, but showers are still frequent. As always, you don’t want to be caught without a rain jacket.

What to wear in Scotland in the Summer?

As should be expected, this is the warmest time of year in Scotland. You can expect long summer days as Scotland is extremely high North. Temperatures range on average from 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63 °F). It’s always a good idea to have some warm weather clothing for outdoor activities during this time.

What to wear in Scotland in the Fall?

Autumn weather is probably the most varied time of year in Scotland and can go from mild and sunny to cold and rainy in a matter of hours. It’s why many people ask us what to wear in Scotland in September. On average temperatures range from 8°C (46°F) to 14°C (57°F).

What to wear in Scotland in the Winter?

Scotland’s weather doesn’t vary all that much. In the wintertime, the average temperature high floats around 5°C (41°F), just above freezing. Snow does fall, but it’s mild in most of the low-lying areas of Scotland. The highlands do receive snow in the higher elevations.

A Few Tips For Your Scotland Trip

When is the Best Time to Visit Scotland?

In my opinion, the best times to visit Scotland is June and September – but it all depends on what you want! June-August is the high season, especially on the North Coast 500 Route, but it is also summer in Scotland, and the cities are buzzing with locals and tourists alike. It’s also the best chance for sunny weather in Scotland.

However, my favorite time to travel to Scotland is during the fall months. It’s during September when you get the last of summer and beautiful food products in season. The cherry on top is that tourism is slowing down and you don’t have so many people at some popular sights.

Freedom to Roam

One thing to know when you take your trip to Scotland is there is no such thing as trespassing. Everyone has the right to roam along the countryside, including farms. The “freedom to roam” is the public’s right to access public or privately owned land for recreation.

It doesn’t include houses, gardens, or military bases, so don’t go squatting on someone’s porch, but it does allow people to enjoy the land and inland water for their well-being. The only stipulation is that you must do so responsibly and safely.

So, mind the sheep and close the gate!

Just a Wee Drink

There are two things you need to know about the people of Scotland. They are some of the friendliest people on earth, and they like to drink. Don’t be surprised when you hear the classic line “oh, it’s just a wee drink” or “how ’bout a wee dram o’ whisky.”

Although Scotch is of national pride and a great spirit, it is not what the Scottish drink every day. The most popular drink these days is gin and beer. So, we got to make friends and relive our days of African safari with some gin & tonics.

What To Pack for Scotland Summary

It’s best not to forget things like medications, toiletries, and other personal items you might need when you travel. However, this is a general Scotland packing list for all to go off of.

Remember that Scotland isn’t the end of the world, and if you forget something when thinking about what to wear in Scotland, it’s likely you’ll be able to find it when you get there. Especially in cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow – you can get anything there that you can back home!

The trip that followed was breathtaking and left us wanting more. It is a place that will always require “more time” because it’s likely you’ll never have enough. The North Coast 500 is epic, and few road trips around the world even compete for its beauty. We’re here to share some important North Coast 500 tips you should know before you go! Let’s dig in.

Our North Coast 500 (Scotland) Itinerary

We started our North Coast 500 trip in Inverness and ended in Applecross before going to the Isle of Skye. Since we rented our car in Edinburgh, had some spare time on our hands, and were dying to see Skye, we decided not to cross back over to Inverness from Applecross (making the whole route “complete”). The whole route below took us eight full days, but we could have easily spent three weeks. For an extended NC500 itinerary, see this post!

What is the North Coast 500?

It’s okay if you’re still questioning the North Coast 500! The National Highland Initiative coined the NC500 in 2015 to boost economic activity and tourism in the many pockets of the highlands that weren’t currently benefitting from much of Scottish tourism.

The route runs for more than 500 miles to and from Inverness, the capital of the highlands, and from there, you can either travel up the east coast or head to the west and travel up. The North Coast route has significantly increased profit and tourism in the Highlands area, adding about 29,000 visits in the first year of its launch. Although the roads, sites, and beauty have always existed in the Scottish Highlands, it wasn’t until it was given a name that the route exploded in popularity.

Important North Coast 500 Tips To Know

Don’t Over Plan

With only eight days and a gazillion things to see, we knew we would never get to everything…but we tried. We packed in a lot in just over a week. By the end, we wanted to cuddle up on a familiar couch and binge-watch Netflix. We moved guesthouses daily, packing every morning and unpacking every night. We also had an itinerary of places to visit, restaurants, and check-in times to manage with our guesthouse owners.

We were constantly late because we all wanted to stop to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. Beating time is a losing fight on the North Coast 500, and if I could give you only one piece of advice for this route, it would be to not overplan your trip.

So, how long does it take to drive the North Coast 500?

There is no right answer to that, as it is up to you! Before we left for the North Coast 500, we had a full eight-day agenda of everything we had to see on the North Coast 500.  We thought eight days would be an ideal amount of time to see everything, but there are so many things that we missed getting to.

In an ideal world, I think two weeks would be the perfect time to experience most of the North Coast 500. If you have anything less than five days, I suggest waiting until you have more time to make the 516-mile Scottish road trip, as you may be too rushed to enjoy it.

Factor in Stops for Photos

Just because the GPS says it will take you an hour to get from Lochinver to Ullapool doesn’t mean it actually will. The drive on the North Coast 500 is just so mesmerizing you would be crazy not to get out, take photos, and enjoy the scenery outside of your car.

If you like taking photos and videos like us, it would be advisable to consider your stops when planning your drive. We may or may not have stopped for about an hour for an impromptu photo shoot with some of the famous highland coos.

Pack Accordingly

“Well, you don’t come to Scotland for the weather,” we were told by many locals. Weather in Scotland and the Highlands is unpredictable.  It could be sunshine in November and hail in May. Unfortunately, we got all the rain and thunderstorms in September with very little sun or warmth. It was okay because we came prepared for all types of weather.

We recommend you do this while on the North Coast 500. Pack for rain, sun, and everything in between to ensure you’re always comfortable. Some must-have items when traveling the North Coast 500 are a good rain jacket, waterproof hiking pants, a great down jacket, hiking shoes, and a cute warm sweater for when it’s a wee bit chilly out. Psst—Read our full packing guide to Scotland here!

And remember to throw an adaptor in your bag! Scotland uses the standard British three-prong pin. You’ll want to ensure you have an adaptor before you set out on this trip so you can always charge your cameras and cell phones, or you may be paying a premium for one at the airport.

Book Ahead

The North Coast 500 route has gained popularity rapidly. When we first drove it years ago, very few people had heard of it. When we revisited it in 2022, not a single person we spoke to hadn’t heard of it. The NC500 is so popular that the supply cannot often meet the demand, and people are stuck with no accommodation if they do not plan in advance.

This isn’t one of the places you can show up and book accommodation the day before. I know I said not to overplan, and you shouldn’t, except for accommodation. I recommend that you start looking at your accommodation options and book in advance right after you know where you are going.

The North Coast 500 can get very busy between June and October, so you may need to book your hotels and guesthouses at least a few months in advance. Otherwise, you may get stuck paying a premium or (even worse) have nowhere to stay. Check out where we slept!

Don’t Rely on the Internet on the North Coast 500

Before we left Inverness, we picked up a SIM card from the telecom provider “Three.” We told the employees our plan to drive the North Coast 500, and they immediately told us not to expect the data to work much in the Scottish Highlands. We could not get a great signal in most places north of Inverness. Most of the time, we had no service at all, while occasionally, we could make a phone call, and only when we were in larger towns could we get 4G.

However, many of the hotels and lodges on the NC500 have WiFi; don’t expect it to be the greatest. It will most likely be enough to check your emails and browse. We met one couple who told us they were still using dial-up because their location was remote. With this much beauty when you travel to Scotland, you shouldn’t need much internet. It’s the perfect place to relax and disconnect for a while.

Get Active on the NC500

Don’t think that because you are doing one of the best road trips in the world, you will have to sit cooped up in a car all day. It’s the opposite! Most of Scotland’s best activities are outdoors. Fancy a paddle board or fly fishing? Well, there are countless lochs around! Mountain biking is also at its finest here, as are seascape tours, hiking trails, castle exploring, waterfall chasing, and even caving.

All of the highlights of our trip involved some outdoor activity. We loved mountain biking along the heather in Invershin with Heaven Bikes, cave exploring in Smoo Caves, and, of course, our epic time interacting with some of the many Scottish stags in Reraig Forest.

You Can Walk (Almost) Anywhere on the NC500

I should probably mention that you can walk just about anywhere in Scotland—yes, anywhere! We were shocked when locals told us this. In Scotland, without worrying about trespassing, we can freely roam around any mountains, moorland, woods, forests, grassland, fields, rivers and lochs, or coastal areas. Trespassing in Scotland is “not a thing.” Coming from the United States, where “No Trespassing” signs could be met with prosecution or, even worse – a gun nut, we think this is an amazing law.

The “freedom to roam” is the general public’s right to access certain public or privately owned land for recreation. This doesn’t include houses, gardens, or military bases — you can’t camp in someone’s yard. The right-to-roam law allows people to enjoy the land and inland water for their own well-being. The only stipulation is that you must do so responsibly and safely. So, mind the sheep and close the gate!

More info on Scotland's Outdoor Access Code can be found here. 

Have A Drink!

You’ve certainly heard of Scotch Whisky. The world-famous spirit is distilled all over Scotland, and it shouldn’t be surprising that several distilleries are along the North Coast 500 route. We have visited the Clynelish, Balblair, and Glen Ord whisky distilleries—which run whisky tours around the distillery, with a tasting at the end.

However, we were shocked when we learned that many Scots don’t actually drink whisky. Gin is a hot commodity these days, and within a few years, Gin distilleries have popped up all around Scotland. We were lucky enough to visit one of the first gin distilleries in Scotland on the route, the Dunnet Bay Distillery.

The gin distillery is located in Dunnet, not far from the popular John O Groats stop. It makes all-organic Gin and features local ingredients from the heather, including rock rose, which provides the name for its signature Rock Rose Gin. It’s wonderful, and we highly recommend it!

If hard spirits aren’t your thing, then head to a brewery! Yes, Scotland has those, too. The Black Isle Brewery is great for visiting and sampling some organic craft beers. The brewery is open to visits, and if they have the time, they’ll take you in the back and show you around. They also brew an NC500 IPA that is seriously delicious and perfect for drinking on the North Coast 500.

Some of the Best Distilleries on the North Coast 500:

1. Glenmorangie Distillery: located in Tain, this distillery is known for producing some of the finest single-malt Scotch whisky in the world.
2. Old Pulteney Distillery: based in Wick, this distillery produces a range of single malt whiskies known for their maritime character.
3. Clynelish Distillery: Located in Brora, this distillery produces a range of single malt whiskies that collectors highly prize.
4. Balblair Distillery: located in the village of Edderton, this distillery is known for its range of single malt whiskies aged in various casks.
5. The Singleton Distillery: based in Muir of Ord, this distillery produces a range of single malt whiskies known for their rich, full-bodied flavor.

The Best Breweries on the North Coast 500

• Black Isle Brewery: based in the village of Munlochy, this brewery produces a range of organic ales and lagers using locally grown ingredients.
• Cromarty Brewing Company: based in the town of Cromarty, this brewery produces a range of ales and lagers using locally grown ingredients.
• Windswept Brewery: located in the village of Lossiemouth, this brewery produces a range of ales and lagers using locally grown ingredients.
• Swannay Brewery: based in the village of Orkney, this brewery produces a range of ales and lagers using locally sourced ingredients.

Don’t Drink and Drive

On the topic of alcohol, I suppose I should mention that the alcohol limit for drivers in Scotland is 50 milligrams of alcohol in every 100 milliliters of blood – or almost nothing. Yes, just one cocktail, beer, or glass of wine can put you over the legal limit to operate a vehicle.

 If you are going in for a mid-day whisky tasting but still have to drive around Scotland afterward, ask the staff to wrap up your whisky to enjoy later. They are all aware of the drinking and driving laws and have nice take-home bottles to give you as a part of your tasting. They completely understand and would rather you be safe than sorry.

The North Coast 500 is the Most Beautiful Drive on Earth!

And we’ve been to many places – 85 countries and counting, to be exact. We’ve seen the tides roll in on the empty beaches of Mozambique, watched the sunrise over the world’s tallest sand dunes in Namibia, and seen where the hobbits reside in New Zealand. All those places are insanely beautiful, but the Scottish Highlands are surreal. Rolling hills, dramatic cliff faces, creeping heather, deep blue lochs, and alpine forests? It’s a lot to contend with!

The North Coast 500 route packs in some of the prettiest places in the world. I even started to get just a wee bit annoyed with Cameron because he wouldn’t stop saying “WOW” every time we drove around a bend. I guess I’m trying to say to bring a camera and prepare for your jaw to hit the floor.

The NC500 is NOT 500 miles

Technically, the North Coast 500 is 516 miles, but let’s be honest—500 sounds way better. You don’t have to travel the entire route to take in the beauty, though. We met plenty of visitors who came just to spend a few days traveling up from the city and either started their trip on the East or West Coast.

Brush Up on Your Driving Skills

Driving in Scotland is no joke, and realizing that before renting a vehicle is essential. The Scots drive on the left side of the road, with the steering wheel on the right. We are used to this after extensive driving across Africa, but many foreigners are not.

Second, instead of stoplights, most of the roads in Scotland run smoothly because of roundabouts. Yes, roundabouts. Those circle streets may make you a wee bit nervous about driving on if you’re not used to them. Well, there are tons of them in Scotland, which we realized about five minutes after we picked up our rental car at the airport. Ensure you know the rules of the road and how to navigate them before you drive here.

Third and most important – the roads on the North Coast 500 are often small single-track roads fit for just one vehicle at a time. Every 400 meters, there are passing points to let oncoming traffic get through. The car closest to a passing point should be the one to yield. That does not mean crossing the path of another vehicle into the passing moment. If the passing place is on your side of the road you move over, if it is on their side you wait for them to approach you. Always make sure there is enough room on the road to pass.

These aren’t motorways or highways, and plenty of sheep and cattle are on the side of the road, so drive sensibly. To drive the North Coast 500, you must be patient and aware of your surroundings. Don’t drive too fast, don’t take photos while driving (yes, we saw that many times), and don’t litter – the locals don’t appreciate these behaviors. If you are uncomfortable driving yourself, you can always tour Scotland!

There is No “Right Time” To Drive Scotland’s North Coast 500

Like most places, summer is the ideal time to travel the North Coast 500 in terms of weather. Scotland isn’t known for having weather like the Mediterranean, so to increase your chances of sunshine, a trip to the Highlands is best between May and August. However, everyone wants to go during this time of year, so you will likely find more people, higher prices, and low accommodation availability.

That being said, the North Coast 500 will have incredible scenery any time of the year, although the weather may change a bit. You really never know what the Scottish Gods will give you on your trip. We decided to take our trip in the middle of September in hopes of chasing the perfect fall, but instead, we experienced rain and grey skies our entire trip. It’s a good thing we packed raincoats and like editing “moody” photos.

Update: We also returned to drive the NC500 in July and got all sorts of weather - heat waves, rainy days, and everything in between. Truly plan for anything!

An NC500 Trip Can Get Expensive

The UK is not known for being cheap, and the Scottish Highlands are no exception. A combination of transport, activities, food, and accommodation can easily set you back at least £200+ a day per person. The more lavish you go, the more expensive – and there are many lavish places to eat and stay on the North Coast 500. You can even rent a Lamborghini to do the drive if you want to go all out!

Of course, more affordable ways exist to tackle the North Coast 500. Traveling with a group of friends is sure to lower your vehicle hire fees, and if you are a couple, splitting a hotel room will help your budget. There are many hostels along the way, and each main town will have at least one supermarket for you to pick up groceries instead of eating out.

If you’re really up for a cheap adventure, you can cycle the North Coast 500, hitchhike, wild camp, and cook all your food. The silver lining for foreigners is that the British pound has taken a hit since Brexit and economic savants like Liz Truss, so your home currency is sure to go further than in previous years.

Read More: How Much Does a Trip to Scotland Cost?

Car, Camper, Bike, or Walk

On the route, you have several different options for travel style. Most people will hire a car or a campervan, but you can also find some of the active bunch walking or cycling the route. We personally chose to rent a car and drive ourselves around to make the most of our time. We have a post with tips for renting a car in Scotland.

However, if I were to redo it, I would love to cycle the North Coast 500 one day. Make comparisons online before you arrive in Scotland to get the best rates on car rentals. When we landed in Scotland, we picked the car up right from Edinburgh Airport.

If you want to try walking the route, you can get support at World Walkers and find others who have done it. If you are a confident cycler and want some route planning, check out the North Coast 500 website. We would love for anyone to take this route regardless of budget. No matter what, the beautiful views of the Scottish Highlands are for everyone to enjoy.

Where to Go on the North Coast 500

There are hundreds of places to stop on the North Coast 500. A few of the highlights are:

• Inverness: This city is the starting point of the North Coast 500 and is known for its rich history, stunning castle, and beautiful surrounding countryside.
• Ullapool: This charming port town is a great place to stop for a bite to eat and to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
• Torridon: This area is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the Highlands, with towering mountains, glistening lochs, and ancient forests.
• Durness: This small village is located on the far northwest coast of Scotland and is known for its beautiful beaches and breathtaking views.
• John O’Groats: This is the northeasternmost point of mainland Scotland and a popular stop on the North Coast 500. It’s a great place to take in the rugged coastline and spot wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and whales.
• Inverewe Garden: This beautiful garden is located on the shores of Loch Ewe and is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers from around the world.
• Dunrobin Castle: This stunning castle is located near the village of Golspie and is known for its beautiful gardens and rich history.
• Nairn: This town is known for its beautiful beaches and is a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
• Fort George: Just off the route, this historic fort was built in the 18th century and is now a popular tourist attraction. It offers guided tours and stunning views of the surrounding area.

15 BEST Stops on the North Coast 500 Route (Scotland)

When is the Best Season to Travel to Scotland?

The country has two buzzing cities, Edinburgh and Glasgow, but there is so much more beyond the cities to discover when you travel Scotland. Trust us when we say the best places to visit in Scotland go beyond what you typically see in movies and tv shows.

In our opinion, Scotland’s finest lies in the Highlands. One of the most beautiful regions of the world filled with wildlife, folklore, culture, and a spectacular natural landscape. We came expecting a lot from Scotland and were still managed to be blown away by the culture and natural beauty.

It’s not just the highlands though; you can find beauty in every corner of Scotland. Here are some of the best places to travel in Scotland.

Scotland Travel Tips

• Currency: Great British Pound (GBP)
• Visa: Many nationalities can enter the UK for 90 days visa-free
• Weather:  Expect lots of weather! Scotland is known for having rapid shifts in weather. Scotland receives a lot of rain to keep all the lakes, river, and streams full.
• What to Pack: A great rain jacket, wool sweater, wool socks, travel camera, & down jacket.
• Stay Connected: We recommend Sim Cards from Three – signal is limited in the highlands.
• Right to Roam: There isn’t much in the form of trespassing in Scotland. Everyone has the right to roam and explore the stunning countryside.

Best Places to Visit in Scotland

1. Edinburgh

As the capital city of Scotland, one would be right to assume that this city has everything for an amazing getaway. It’s also a gateway to other popular regions of Scotland. The city is a vibrant blend of old and new with a mix of modern shops, restaurants and attractions mixed in with medieval buildings. 

The imposing Edinburgh Castle is by far the most popular attraction in the city but you can’t miss the National Museum of Scotland, Arthur’s Seat, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh Zoo and St. Giles’ Cathedral. Almost every month in Edinburgh there’s an exciting festival happening, so make sure to pay attention when visiting. Our personal favorite is Hogmanay, a New Years celebration!

The Royal Mile is an exciting place to be any time of day and after sundown, the lively pubs come alive with the sound of music. 

45 BEST Things To Do In Edinburgh

2. Loch Ness

I think it’s safe to say that almost everyone has heard of Loch Ness and its legendary lake monster Nessie. Though it may come as a surprise that it’s one of the best places to visit in Scotland. While this huge 23-mile-long body of freshwater in the Highlands region has gained notoriety around the world for being the home of a prehistoric beast, it’s a popular place to visit for many other reasons. 

The ruins of the 16th-century Urquhart Castle are fun to explore and nature lovers can take to the many hiking trails in the area or check out the beautiful Falls of Foyers and Falls of Divach. Of course, you can’t escape Nessie and you can learn all about Loch Ness’s most famous resident at Nessieland and the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition. 

Even the famous lake cruises allow guests to observe sonar equipment to watch for anomalies underwater that can indicate the presence of a large animal lurking in the depths!

3. Glasgow

Situated in the western Lowlands region along the River Clyde, the port city of Glasgow is known for its Victorian architecture and thriving arts scene which includes the Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet, National Theatre of Scotland and a designation as a UNESCO City of Music. 

The city is steeped in history and culture but is also known for its modern attractions catering to the large student population that attends the University of Glasgow. Some of the top attractions in the city include Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow Cathedral, Glasgow Botanic Gardens and Glasgow Science Centre.

4. Roslin

If you’ve read the book The Da Vinci Code, you’ve heard of and might be surprised to learn that Rosslyn Chapel is a real place and it’s located in the peaceful little village of Roslin only a little ways from Edinburgh. This famed chapel may have put the village on the map, but it’s also known for so many other things! 

For example, the Roslin Institute is where Dolly the first cloned sheep was created! Some of the other notable attractions in the area include the 14th-century Rosslyn Castle, Roslin Glen Country Park, Roslin War Memorial and Dryden Tower.

5. St. Andrews

St. Andrews has much to offer visitors but if there’s one thing it’s known for most of all, it’s for being the Home of Golf.  This seaside golfer’s heaven on the east coast has many world-renowned golf courses including the oldest golf course in the world at St Andrews Links.  

It’s also home to The British Golf Museum and The R&A World Golf Museum. If you’re not into golf, there are plenty more things to see in St. Andrews including the ruins of the 12th-century St Andrews Cathedral, St Andrews Castle, St Andrews Aquarium and the Wardlaw Museum.

6. Dundee

Located in eastern Scotland, the coastal city of Dundee is a fairly big city with many bars, restaurants and shops. It’s the perfect city escape for visitors who wish to have all the amenities of a city without the large crowds and noise of the much larger urban center. 

The city is known for its lively music scene and there are many attractions including V&A Dundee Museum, The McManus Art Gallery & Museum, Broughty Castle Museum, Camperdown Wildlife Centre and the Dundee Science Centre.

7. Inverness

Inverness is the biggest city in the Scottish Highlands and is known for its vibrant culture and colorful history. It’s one of the best places to visit in Scotland and the start of the famous North Coast 500.

The old town district is where you’ll find many stately historic buildings including the Inverness Cathedral and Old High Church. Nature lovers don’t have to venture far from the city limits to find pristine landscapes and history buffs will find an array of prehistoric sites and medieval ruins. 

At the Victorian Market, you’ll find locally-made crafts and homemade treats.  Inverness Castle, Inverness Museum and Art Gallery and Inverness Botanic Gardens are just some of the other popular attractions around the city. 

8. Balmaha

Located along the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, the village of Balmaha is a popular stop along the long-distance hiking route The West Highland Way. With many relaxing parks and picnic areas, it’s a great place to rest during a long journey or after completing one. 

This pretty little place is also home to some must-see attractions including the trails of Inchcailloch, Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve, Balmaha Visitor Centre, Clairinsh Beach and Dalnair Castle.

9. Portree

Portree is the capital and cultural center of the Isle of Skye. This picturesque, colorful port town is home to retail shops, restaurants, cozy cafes and many attractions including the hiking trails of Scorrybreac and The Lump.  

The famous Aros Centre plays host to many concerts, film screenings and theater works throughout the year so there’s a good chance you’ll be able to catch a show during your visit. 

10. Aberfoyle

A walk down Aberfoyle’s charming main street reveals an array of world-class shops and eateries but this lovely little village along the River Forth in county Perthshire has attractions beyond its downtown district. 

The Scottish Wool Centre, Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and Inchmahome Priory are interesting places to explore and Lake of Menteith and Loch Achray are popular for fishing and picnicking. Aberfoyle is only 40 miles away from Glasgow so it’s a perfect little escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

11. Dornoch

If you’ll be traveling with a dog during your adventures through Scotland, be sure to stop in dog-friendly Dornoch where you’ll find many eateries, shops, accommodations and attractions that welcome dogs with open arms. Of course, there are many things for two-legged visitors to do in this seaside resort town too!  

Dornoch Beach is a popular draw with its sandy stretch of beautiful coastline and the great outdoors is within easy reach. Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve, Historylinks Museum, Dornoch Cathedral and The Glenmorangie Distillery Co are some of the other attractions in the area. 

If you want to spot wildlife, Loch Fleet is a great place to see seals, otters and many species of birds. 

12. Plockton

It’s a little off-the-beaten-track but the peaceful village of Plockton is worth the detour! Situated on the banks of Loch Carron in the Wester Ross region of the Highlands, Plockton is home to only about 450 people so won’t find any crowds here! 

Some of the top attractions in the village include Plockton Visitor Centre, the ruins of Strome Castle, the Balmacara Estate Visitor Centre and Kishorn Selfie Box. About a mile away, you’ll find beautiful Coral Beach. 

13. Killin

Killin is another small Scottish Highland village renowned for its stunning scenery and natural escapes. Situated at the western end of Loch Tay, Killin serves as a popular base for visitors wanting to hike in the nearby Breadalbane Mountains, golf at Killin Golf Club, or fish in the lake. 

Finlarig Castle, Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve, Killin Stone Circle and Breadalbane Folklore Centre are some of the attractions in the village. 

14. Brodick

Still wondering where to go in Scotland? Check out the small village of Brodick. It’s remote but also within close reach to some of Scotland’s major cities and whether you’re interested in culture, history, scenery, or natural escapes, you’ll find it in the little village of Brodick on the Isle of Arran. 

Besides a beautiful beach, there’s an 18-hole golf course, walking trails and plenty of opportunities to participate in a wide range of outdoor pursuits. These include biking, fishing and horseback riding, you’ll also find many attractions such as Brodick Castle and Isle of Arran Heritage Museum. 

It only takes about four hours to drive around the entire island so you can explore it and its spectacular scenery and natural wonders in a day. 

15. Pittenweem

Located in the Fife region of eastern Scotland, the quaint little fishing village of Pittenweem is the perfect place to go if you want to get away from it all. You’ll appreciate the slower pace, whether it be watching the boats coming in and out of the harbor or taking a stroll along Earlsferry Beach. 

Scottish Fisheries Museum Trust Ltd, St. Fillan’s Cave and St. Monans Windmill are some of the attractions nearby. 

16. Aberdeen

The Port City of Aberdeen is known for its long, sandy beach and unique grey-stone architecture that gives it its nickname Granite City. It’s easily one of the most visiting and best places to visit in Scotland.

There are many attractions around the city including the Aberdeen Art Gallery, Aberdeen Maritime Museum, The Gordon Highlanders Museum, Balmoral Castle, Aberdeen Science Centre and St. Machar’s Cathedral. The inner child in you will have a blast at Codona’s where you’ll enjoy a variety of historic rides and arcade games. 

17. Hopeman

Hopeman may be small, but this coastal village in the Moray region of Scotland has much to offer!  If you enjoy golfing, you’ll like the fact that Hopeman Golf Club has been named one of the top courses in Scotland.  

If you enjoy hanging out at the beach, you’ll have your pick of sandy ones including Hopeman East Beach, Cove Bay and Roseisle Country Park. If you enjoy nature, you can explore Sculptor’s Cave or watch for dolphins at Moray Firth. 

If history is your thing, you’ll want to check out the ruins of Duffus Castle, Covesea Lighthouse & Royal Navy and Royal Air Force Heritage Centre and St. Peter’s Kirk & Parish Cross

18. Fort William

Located along Loch Linnhe in the Highlands region, Fort William is widely known for being the gateway to the United Kingdom’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. This is where you can go hiking, climbing and exploring incredible natural wonders including Steall Falls and other nearby mountain peaks. The trail up to Ben Nevis is easily one of the best hikes in Scotland.

There are many great attractions in and around the town including Ben Nevis Distillery, Old Inverlochy Castle, the West Highland Museum, Neptune’s Staircase and Ben Nevis Visitor Centre.

19. Peebles

Along the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders region, you’ll find the beautiful little town of Peebles. The town is known for its scenery, historic architecture, shopping, dining and outdoor pursuits. 

Neidpath Castle, Glentress Forest, Kailzie Gardens, Tweeddale Museum & Gallery, John Buchan Story Museum, Traquair House and the ruins of Cross Kirk are some of the fascinating attractions you’ll find around Peebles. 

20. Glencoe

Much can be said about the little highland village of Glencoe. It’s surrounded by incredible scenery featuring waterfalls, mountains, valleys and otherworldly landscapes carved long ago by glaciers and volcanoes. To experience it’s beauty, it’s best to rent a car in Scotland for an epic road trip here.

It’s steeped in culture that’s showcased at the Glencoe Folk Museum. And it’s steeped in history that includes a sinister night in 1692 when a terrible massacre took place in the glen. 

If you plan to stay the night at the Clachaig Inn, be prepared to be turned away if your last name is Campbell or you’re connected to the infamous clan in any way. You see, that terrible massacre saw members of the Campbell clan murder 38 members of the MacDonald clan. 

21. Luss

The historic village of Luss is a quintessential rural Scottish getaway where you’ll walk along narrow streets and admire the unique architecture and the views along beautiful Loch Lomond. 

It’s the perfect place to escape the more crowded, touristy areas and a great starting point for exploring the Loch Lomond area. Loch Lomond Faerie Trail, Luss Pier and the historic Luss Parish Church are some of the attractions in the village. 

22. Anstruther

Situated along the Fife coast, the small coastal village of Anstruther is a throwback to the past. You’ll feel like you stepped into a time machine when you walk down the streets filled with historic buildings. 

Some of the top attractions include Scottish Fisheries Museum Trust Ltd, St. Fillan’s Cave and Anstruther Model Solar System. Billow Ness Beach is a small sandy beach that’s a popular place for walking and exploring rock pools. 

23. Callander

Friendly, attractive and centrally located. These are some of the words that could be used to describe the little town of Callander.  Located along the River Teith in an area where the Lowlands meet the Highlands, Callander is a popular location from which to launch an adventure into the Trossachs National Park. 

However, before you stray too far, be sure to check out some of the town’s attractions including the Bird of Prey Trail, Galleria Luti and Bracklinn Falls Bridge. 

24. Millport 

Every town in Scotland has its claim to fame. The small town of Millport, which is located on the Isle of Cumbrae, is known for being the most beautiful town in Scotland. This lovely seaside destination is not only scenic, but it’s also packed with many things to see and do. 

Favorites with visitors include Newton Beach, Crocodile Rock and Cathedral of the Isles which is the smallest cathedral in Great Britain. Like elsewhere in Scotland, there are castles here including Portencross Castle and Hunterston Castle. 

Many people bike or hike along the road that goes around the island and this is a great way to see much of the spectacular coastal scenery. So make sure to put hiking and biking clothes on your Scotland packing list. An 18-hole golf course is also located near the town. 

25. Stirling

There’s no doubt that Stirling Castle is the most notable attraction in the central Scotland city of Stirling, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only thing you should go there for! 

This historic market town is also home to The National Wallace Monument, The Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum, Holy Rude, Stirling Old Town Jail, Cambuskenneth Abbey and Stirling Old Bridge.  

Also known for being the Gateway to the Highlands, Stirling makes an excellent base from which to explore the beautiful Highlands region of Scotland. 

26. Brora

Brora is a village situated on the east coast of Sutherland in the Highland region of Scotland. Although quite small, with a population of just over 1,200 people, it is a fantastic place to visit if you’re looking for a quaint, peaceful destination with many things to do in Brora.

The village is widely known for being the home of the Highland League football team, but it’s also known for its small sandy beach, wildlife viewing, and beautiful hiking. Some of the best things to do (besides golf) is visit the Clynelish Distillery, go paddleboarding on Lake Brora and visit nearby Dunrobin Castle & Gardens.

12 Best Things to do in Brora (Scotland)

27. Drive the North Coast 500

Okay, this isn’t really one of those best places to visit in Scotland, but rather a road trip around some of the Scottish Highland’s best highlights.

The North Coast 500 has been dubbed “Scotland’s Route 66,” and named “one of the greatest road trips in the world.” It’s a series of roads that circumnavigate the Scottish Highlands starting from Inverness.

Along the 500 miles you’ll see dramatic landscapes from the east to west coast of Scotland. Some of our favorite stops are John O Groats and Lochinver. You can drive the NC500 anytime of year, but we think it’s one of the best drives during summer in Europe!

15 BEST Stops on the North Coast 500 Route (Scotland)

When is the Best Season to Travel to Scotland?

High season (July-September):

Like most European places, Scotland’s high season runs from July to mid-September. This is when you will find the best weather, as noted above, but also crowds. Days are longer, the weather is warmer, and hotel and car rental prices are at their highest.

Shoulder Season (May-June and Late September-November)

We’ve traveled to Scotland during the shoulder season and loved it. The weather is cool, the leaves are orange and yellow, and the vibe in the air is wonderful. This is also when we’ve found great deals on car rentals and guesthouses. However, famous places like Glasgow and Skye were hectic. We saw sunny days but also had many rainy Scotland overcast days.

Low Season (Late November-April)

The temperatures are cooler during the low season in Scotland, and you stand a solid chance of getting caught in the rain (or snow) storm. If you plan to travel to Scotland during this time you absolutely need a packable rain jacket, travel umbrella, and waterproof boots.

The upside is you’ll find low prices and low numbers of tourists. If you are in Scotland over the holidays make sure to participate in the festivals around the cities!

Check the Month By Month Breakdown Here

What to Pack When You Travel Scotland

Wondering what to wear when you travel to Scotland? The country’s weather is pretty notorious so it’s only natural that the question of what to pack for Scotland comes up a lot.

With that in mind, you should be prepared as you’ll spend much of your time in Scotland outside, enjoying its beautiful cities and breathtaking landscapes.

TRAVEL MORE OF SCOTLAND

These are just a few of the best places to visit in Scotland, and once you arrive you’ll see how much more there is! For more travel around Scotland, read on:

• 25 Scotland Travel Tips to Know BEFORE You Go
• When Is The Best Time To Visit Scotland?
• 34 Fun Scotland Facts You Can Impress Friends With
• 12 Best Things to do in Brora (Scotland)
• Hiking in Scotland: 15 BEST Hikes in Scotland
• 33 DREAM Vacation Spots and Destinations to Travel in 2023

Fun Facts About London

1. The City of London is ancient – and tiny

The old core of the British capital covers an area of only 1.12 square miles. It’s known locally as the Square Mile. This was London as it was settled by the Romans in the 1st century AD, and as it continued into the Middle Ages.

The City of London is now just an eensy, teensy part of the metropolis – and constitutes the smallest county in England.

2. More than 300 languages are spoken in the London area

3. London is the center of the world

Well, sort of. And specifically, that’s Greenwich. This historic area is where you’ll find the Royal Observatory. This defines 0° longitude (i.e., the Prime Meridian) and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

That’s what you probably know as Coordinated Universal Time or UTC, but GMT predates this term by over 300 years.

4. The London Underground is the oldest underground railway network in the world

It may be rough-around-the-edges, lack air-con and cell phone signal, but the London Underground is a pioneer of traveling by train under the ground.

In January 1863, a line between Paddington and Farringdon was opened. The carriages were wooden, gas-lit, and pulled by steam locomotives. It caught on.

5. The name “London” is ancient

You know already that London was primarily developed by the Romans. That was our first fact about London. But while they called the city “Londinium,” you have to wonder where they got that word from?

Historians have reconstructed its old Celtic name (which the Romans adapted) as something like Londonjon.

6. London wasn’t a healthy place in the 17th century

There were a lot of diseases going around London at the time – and we’re talking worse than flu.

Between 1665 and 1666, the Great Plague – a nasty case of bubonic plague – killed around 100,000 people. At the time, that was almost a quarter of London’s population.

7. The Great Fire of London started in a bakery

… on Pudding Lane, no less. It happened in 1666. Shortly after midnight on Sunday, September 2nd, the fire erupted from the bakery and quickly spread, destroying around a quarter of London’s metropolis.

This included St Paul’s Cathedral. The natural outcome was to give the city a brick-and-stone facelift.

8. London was the world’s largest city from 1831 to 1925

That’s right. This interesting London fact states that it was the largest city in the world for almost a hundred years, surpassing Beijing’s 1.1 million in the mid-1800s and boasting a population of 7,419,000 by 1914. After that, New York City took the reins. London is now the world’s 33rd largest.

9. London was bombed by the Germans during WWI and WWII

The Blitz, a bombing campaign by Nazi Germany, might be famous for destroying a lot of London and killing over 30,000 of its inhabitants, but Germany also bombed London during WWI.

For the most part, this happened from giant airships called Zeppelins, which weren’t very accurate.

10. London is one of the most diverse cities in the world

With the British Empire being a thing for a long time, there were many people from many of the colonies that wanted a slice of the so-called Commonwealth.

From the 1940s onward, immigrants from Trinidad, Jamaica, Pakistan, India, and a host of other Commonwealth countries made their way to London to seek their fortunes.

11. London currently has a record-breaking mayor

Sadiq Khan, current Mayor of London, is the first Muslim mayor of a European Union capital city. He also won with the most significant number of votes in one election of any politician in British history. The son of an immigrant bus driver, seamstress, and one of eight children, has done pretty well for himself.

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12. Number 10 Downing Street is over 300 years old

This is the White House of the UK. It’s got approximately 100 rooms, has a private residence on the third floor, and a kitchen in the basement.

Other levels contain offices where foreign dignitaries can be met. There’s also a resident mouse-catching cat called Larry.

13. London isn’t as wet and miserable as you might think

London has a reputation for being this perpetually rainy outpost where the skies are always grey. Well, get ready to have your mind blown with this fact about London: it receives less precipitation than Bordeaux, Lisbon, Naples, New York City, Rome, and Tokyo. In fact, with an average 602mm of annual rainfall, it’s actually drier than the world average. Huh.

14. London is “one of the World’s Greenest Cities”

This is one of the best facts about London! According to the London Natural History Society, anyway. It’s got more than 40% of green space and open water, 2,000 species of flowering plants, 120 species of fish in the Thames, 60 species of birds nesting in Central London, as well as 47 species of butterfly, 270 kinds of spider, and 1,173 moths.

By EU standards, London can be defined as a forest!

15. A bunch of London’s museums and galleries are free

A budget-friendly fact about London is that, yes, many of its fortresses of culture are free.

The National History Museum, The Science Museum, The V&A, Tate Modern, Tate Britain, National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, British Museum, the Imperial War Museum, and many more – ALL FREE!

16. London’s food scene is amazing

English food has a bad reputation. Like, not good. But go to London, and you’ll be met with cuisine from all over the world served everywhere, from ramshackle eateries to high-end fine dining establishments. Literally – you want it, you got it.

17. Pubs are the best place to get to grips with local life and history

Pub culture is big news in London. It’s where people go after work, where they start a night out, and where they hang out on a sunny day. Some (read: a lot of) pubs are older than the United States. The Hoop & Grapes, for example, in Aldgate, dates back to the 17th century.

18. Herds of red and fallow deer also roam freely within much of Richmond and Bushy Park

To be fair, that’s because they used to be hunting grounds. But now you can still roam around these two sprawling city parks and feel like you’re rambling around the ancient English countryside. Awesome.

19. The London accent is amazing

You’ll probably know it from Mary Poppins or something similar. Cockney is that wide, happy-go-lucky accent associated with London, but really is only from the East of the city.

It has since spread and mixed with Caribbean and South Asian accents for an incredible mix of intonations.

20. Europe’s busiest shopping area is here

At just under one mile long, Oxford Street is the longest shopping street in the UK. Head here for the holiday season for some movie-level Christmas illuminations.

21. There’s more to Notting Hill than the rom-com

In the UK, the area of Notting Hill, London, is much more well known for its amazing Carnival than for its association with Hugh Grant.

For two days every year in August, members of London’s Caribbean community take to the streets for Notting Hill Carnival, with music, floats, food, and general merriment attracting a million people each year.

22. London is home to the oldest tennis tournament in the world

Officially dubbed The Championships, Wimbledon, and held at the All England Club in Wimbledon, southwest London, this tennis tournament started up 1877. That makes it the world’s oldest – and most prestigious, of course.

23. Black cab drivers know every street in the city 

In most countries, you only need a driving license and some sort of taxi registration to be a taxi driver. In London, however, they are another level.

It takes actual years to become the driver of one of the British capital’s famed Black Cabs. Part of the 2-4 years of training involves memorizing every single street in London. Every. Single. Street. 

24. Jack the Ripper to this day is still unknown

In 1888, notoriously grisly murders occurred in East London attributed to the never-apprehended serial killer Jack the Ripper. While over 100 suspects were named at one time or another – including royalty like Prince Albert Victor, Duke of Clarence and Avondale – no one’s ever been named as the Ripper.

25. London’s iconic red buses travel a long way

Another one of those fascinating London facts. t’s estimated that London’s fleet of buses travels 302 million miles every year. That’s 12,128 times the circumference of the earth. A remarkable fact about London, if we do say so ourselves.

26. There’s a secret mark on the entrance to Buckingham Palace

The official, ceremonial entrance, the Horse Guards, has a weird secret. The clock face above the entrance itself features a little black spot at the 2-o’-clock mark. Apparently, this marks the time when King Charles I was executed (2 pm). Weird.

27. The Houses of Parliament is actually a palace

The Palace of Westminster, no less. It’s the largest in the UK, featuring 1,000 rooms, 100 staircases, 11 courtyards, 8 bars, 6 restaurants, a shooting range, and a hair salon. There was an 11th-century palace here before this one, but it burned down in 1834.

28. It is illegal to die in the Palace of Westminster

Or in any palace. And this only applies to commoners, of course. We wish this were a quirky fact about London, but it’s a myth. Still… 

29. The Beatles played their last gig on the roof of Apple Corps at 3 Savile Row

Yep. That was on January 30, 1969. The Apple Corps building is now an Abercrombie & Fitch store. this is one of my favorite facts about London.

30. Underneath the Cleopatra’s Needle on the Embankment, there’s a time capsule from 1878

We thought the fun thing about a time capsule is that you weren’t supposed to know what was in it till you opened it… right? However, the contents of this one are (allegedly) known. There are, apparently, copies of 10 daily newspapers, cigars, a portrait of Queen Victoria, a razor, and pictures of 12 “English beauties of the day.”

31. Everyone knows when the Queen is home

And it’s all about the flags. Yep. If Queen Elizabeth II is chilling at home, you’ll know, because the Royal Standard will be flying.

The rest of the time, the Union Flag will be flying. As a fun side fact about London, it’s always the Union Flag, unless it’s out at sea, which is when it’s known as the Union Jack.

32. London Bridge might not be what you think it is

London Bridge? The one with the towers and the cool road thingie that raises when ships need to pass by, right? Wrong! That’s Tower Bridge. London Bridge is much less impressive and spans the Thames upriver between the City of London and Southwark.

An Ameican, Robert P. McCulloch, purchased the 1831 version of the bridge in 1967 for $2,460,000. It was dismantled, shipped to the US, and reassembled over the Colorado River in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. It’s a fun rumor that McCulloch thought he was purchasing Tower Bridge (which he vehemently denies).

33. Cock Lane in Farringdon is a very appropriate name

London has some pretty interesting street names, but Cock Lane is a good one. Streets in the city were quite often named after the sort of shenanigans that went on in the, um, establishments that were located in said street.

Cock Lane was named for the number of brothels that operated here in medieval times.

34. Great Ormond Street Hospital owns Peter Pan

The famous children’s hospital, Great Ormond Street, was gifted the rights to Peter Pan in 1929 by the story’s creator, J. M. Barrie. It’s fitting, and kind of heartbreaking, knowing that it’s the story of a boy who never grew up.

The city is one of many contrasts that offers everything from world-class art festivals to fine dining, rowdy pubs, designer shops, comedians, luxury hotels, and hip coffee shops. It’s almost impossible for any visitor to have the same experience or opinion of Edinburgh. We tried our best to enjoy a bit of it all, but we’ll have to return someday with more time like all visitors.

We break down our favorite things to do here from tourist staples, shops, coffee shops, bars, and historical monuments. This is what we loved in Edinburgh and what we suggest for an excellent intro to Scotland’s capital city.

Where is Edinburgh?

Before we dig into the best things to do in Edinburgh, let’s break down the location. Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, located in the southeast, and one of the best places to visit in Scotland. Edinburgh’s location along the North Sea means the city sees varying types of weather. Most visitors to Scotland will likely enter through the Edinburgh Airport, meaning everyone has the opportunity to visit Edinburgh!

The hilly capital has a medieval old town and a stunning Georgian New Town. There is plenty to do here for all as there is a vibrant history with a nice blend of old and modern throughout the city walls.

The Best Things To Do In Edinburgh!

Explore Edinburgh on Foot

One of the best things to do in Edinburgh is walk around and enjoy the city. What we love about Edinburgh is that it is compact and walkable.

The city center is packed with shops, sights, restaurants, and history all within walking distance so there is no need to use public transport when exploring the city. Instead, hit the pavement and explore the nooks and crannies of Edinburgh up close.

Climb Calton Hill

Climbing Calton Hill is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh! If you’re looking for the best view of Edinburgh, head up to Calton Hill. The small monument is an iconic staple of Edinburgh’s skyline and can be seen throughout the city.

The hill may be smaller than Arthur’s Seat, but it’s centrally located and only a five-minute walk up. This makes for an intimate view that is easy to reach. If it’s a beautiful day, we suggest watching the sunset in the city from up here.

Get Artsy at the National Gallery of Scotland

The National Gallery of Scotland has one of the best collections of artwork in the city. We’re big fans of art, and the galleries house all forms of work spanning millennia. While it’s easy to make a jest of modern works of abstract art, the expression and freedom of art in the modern era is something to be celebrated.

Climb the Scott Monument

If there was one sight in Edinburgh that we had to visit, it was the Scott Monument. The monument to author Sir Walter Scott makes a cameo in Tasha’s favorite movie, Cloud Atlas.

We think it’s one of the best movies of the last decade and the monument is a pivotal setting in the film. The 287 steps to the top of the monument are another great place to take in views of the city. This is easily one of the best things to do in Edinburgh.

Go on a Ghost Tour

Edinburgh has a long and bloody history, so there is hardly a better place to go on a spooky ghost tour.  Your tour guide meets you at the Mercat Cross before taking you into Edinburgh’s brutal and historical past.

The tour even descends into the underground, and you’ll feel the chills roll down your spine as you hear stories about the residents who still remain.

Hit The Royal Mile

The aptly named Royal Mile is a mile-long street that cuts through the center of the old town and ends at the Edinburgh Castle. It’s more or less a tourist thoroughfare. It’s always buzzing with people and buskers as it’s lined with pubs, overpriced gift shops, and restaurants.  

The cobblestoned street is home to several other things to do in Edinburgh, and we often found ourselves walking along the street throughout the day.

Picnic in the Meadows

This large public park to the South of the city is the perfect place to have a picnic. We spent a few hours here relaxing one afternoon and found it filled mostly with local Scotts walking their dogs, playing football, or going for a run.

Catch an Old Film

This is a classic cinema and the perfect way to spend an evening in Edinburgh. It’s been referred to as one of the best cinemas in the world to catch a flick and is the oldest cinema in Edinburgh. They show a mix of blockbuster, indie releases, and classics. Check out what’s on the big screen here!

Photograph the Dome

This bar and restaurant has to be seen! Although meals and drinks here fetch a high price, the interior is decadent and amazing. It’s been open for over two decades now and is now considered an institution in the city often filled with locals and tourists alike. The stunning domed ceiling in the Grill Room with a large circular bar is sure to wow anyone.

Catch a Play

The Traverse Theatre is known for putting on some of the best shows in Scotland. It has bestowed upon itself the title of “Scotland’s New Writing Theatre” and is the place to go if you’re looking to a new play. Within the theatre, you should also check out Dine for drinks and dinner. They serve up some innovative cocktails that rotate with the seasons and serve a wonderful a pre-theatre set meal that doesn’t break the bank.

Stroll Around Leith

This waterfront suburb is a hit with locals. It has a number of cute cafes with outdoor seating and a number of restaurants, including a Michelin, starred fine dining restaurant. It’s also the home of the Royal ship, Britannia.

The floating palace is still owned by the Royal family, and it’s a popular tourist attraction. However, after visiting the Castle of Mey on the North Coast 500 we decided to give it a skip.

Have a Wee Dram of Whisky

A Scottish fact to know is that it’s “Whisky,” not whiskey. The Irish invented the difference in spelling in a bid to differentiate themselves from Scotch when selling to the American market. There are many bars, shops, and tours that specialize in the famed Scottish drink. We stuck to Edinburgh’s cocktail bars but managed to sample Balblair, Dalmore, The Singleton, Talisker Storm, and Lagavulin.

Our picks? I personally love the smokiness of peat from Islay whiskys and would choose the Lagavulin (rejoice Parks & Rec fans!), while Natasha would go with a 15-year Dalmore from the renowned distiller. Another great whisky is Talisker Storm from the Isle of Skye.

Make Sure to See the Grassmarket District

Historically, this square pedestrian area was the cattle market and where public executions regularly took place. The area is now filled with several pubs, hotels, restaurants, and shops. Including one of the best vintage shops, we found in the city, W Armstrong & Son.

Take a Photo of Greyfriars Bobby

It may be a small statue of a dog, but it’s regarded as one of the most iconic parts of Edinburgh. Sure, it’s not the most exciting thing to do in Edinburgh, but it is iconic. In fact, the local municipality has given it the same protected status as the Castle of Edinburgh.

The statue is dedicated to a Skye terrier who waited for his owner at his grave for years after he passed. It’s worth passing by, but please don’t touch his nose like so many tourists feel the need to do so. (Must we ruin everything?!)

Have a Coffee at Elephant House Cafe

Harry Potter fans rejoice because Edinburgh has plenty of things to keep you entertained. The most important is Elephant House Cafe where J.K. Rowling penned much of the first book.

Visitors have turned the cafe into an attraction with Harry Potter paraphernalia. Truthfully, there are much better cafes and restaurants in Edinburgh, but it’s a can’t miss for Potter fans!

Enjoy Princes Street Gardens

This lovely park is the calm in the middle of a busy city. At one point it was even a Loch where most of the city’s water and sewage came and went. Now, it’s been drained for over a century and serves as a lovely place to relax or enjoy any of the city’s many festivals or their famed Christmas market.

Catch a Festival

Edinburgh hosts a slew of world-class festivals year-round. It’s likely everyone has heard of their most famous, The Fringe, which is considered the largest art festival in the world. However, there is a lot more to the city than that!

We were lucky enough to ring in the New Year at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay and it was easily one of our best New Year’s Eve celebrations to date. The last day of the year is referred to as Hogmanay in Gaelic.

Every year people from around the world and Scots gather together in Edinburgh to ring in the New Year at an impressive festival. It’s a three-day celebration and involves concerts, fireworks, street parties, torchlight procession, and a dip in the freezing cold Firth of Forth at the Loony Dook.

Listen to the Bagpipers

If you’re looking to hear the famous Scottish instrument, you won’t have to look hard. There are performers all over the city offering visitors a chance to listen to them blow. We found they tend to jockey for several spots in the city considered to be the best.

Two of the best spots to find them are at the end of the Royal Mile in front of Camera Obscura and between the Scottish National Gallery and The Royal Scottish Academy.

Have a Drink at the Printing Press

The bar and restaurant are a part of The Principal Hotel On George Street and deliver on the atmosphere. They serve up some of the best cocktails in the city and the hip bar is was buzzing on a Friday night. It tends to pack in an older and hipper crowd as cocktails are around 10 GBP.

Take the train to North Berwick

This charming seaside town makes for a great escape from the city. It’s really easy to hit multiple destinations outside the city with Scotrail. It’s about a 30-minute train ride away from Edinburgh Waverly and is a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Our day in North turned out to be one of our favorite days in Scotland, and all we did was walk around the beach and enjoy the sound of the seagulls. The town has a number of lovely shops, restaurants, and a wonderful cafe where we enjoyed a tasty brunch.

Head to the Scottish Seabird Center

This experience isn’t in the city center, but it’s still one of the best things to do in Edinburgh and just outside the city. The center helps manage a number of habitats along the Scottish coast, one them being Bass Rock. It is home to one of the largest bird colonies in the world. It was one of the most incredible things we have seen in all our time in Scotland. The island rises out of the sea in dramatic cliffs that are home to nearly 150,000 gannet birds. 

Sir David Attenborough has named it one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in the world. We may not have as much experience as him, but we’ve already had some amazing wildlife experiences.

Edinburgh Castle

This is one of the most iconic buildings in all of Edinburgh. It’s a prominent fixture of the city’s skyline and well worth a trip to see it up close. The grandiose facade sits on top of an extinct volcano. The oldest part of the castle that’s still standing is the St. Margaret’s Chapel, built in the 12th century. 

They offer a lot of historical reenactment events that bring the centuries old stone walls to life. There’s also a traditional tea room here, to partake in a beloved pastime of the region. 

Jupiter Artland

Just outside of Edinburgh lies the surreal and verdant Jupiter Artland. It’s a 120 acre sprawling contemporary sculpture park on the grounds of the private 19th century Boddington House.

There are permanent pieces by Charles Jenck, Jim Lambie, Anish Kampoor, and more as well as rotating temporary artworks. They range from small to massive, thought provoking to simply strange. It’s only open seasonally, so be sure to check the schedule before heading over. 

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano with a peak of 823 feet above sea level. It’s surrounded by the grasslands of Holyrood Park. The hike or bike to the top is fairly easy and offers some of the most spectacular panoramas over Edinburgh. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the highest point. 

There’s a diverse range of flora and geology to see in this protected, ancient natural space as well. It can be climbed in almost any direction, though the east is the most recommended route. It’s also home to a large, well-preserved facade dating back over 2,000 years ago. 

Stroll Victoria Street

This iconic street in Edinburgh stretches between two other beloved landmarks, the George IV Bridge and the Grassmarket. It boasts the best selections of independent shops in the whole city and strolling the area is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh!

There are a variety of styles of storefronts to check out: contemporary fashion, vegan couture, independent booksellers, artisan wares, cheesemongers, whisky purveyors, foodie delights, and even Harry Potter paraphernalia. 

Royal Botanic Garden

Right on the edge of New Town sits the 17th century Royal Botanic Garden. Inside you’ll find plants and flowers from all over the world. Set over 70 acres, there are over 13,000 living specimens. Plus stumbling across the panoramic views of the city itself is breathtaking. 

If you work up an appetite, stop in at the adorable Terrace Cafe. The grounds include climates of many kinds from a serene Chinese Garden to an otherworldly lily pond to a Victorian glasshouse. 

The Queen’s Hall

Queen’s Hall is one of the coolest live music venues in Edinburgh. There’s a wide range of world class artists that perform on the intimate stage, which makes for memorable, one-of-a-kind shows.

It has a capacity of 900 seats and hosts around 200 performances each year. It’s been around since 1979; hosting jazz, folk, rock, and classical musicians. The structure was originally built in 1823 as the Hope Park Chapel.  

Portobello Beach

Commonly referred to as Porty by the locals, Portobello Beach is a charming seaside village just outside of the Edinburgh city center. It’s home to a quaint promenade, a tight-knit creative community, and many adorable shops and cafes. 

It was once a popular resort back in the 19th century, though today most of the Victorian style attractions are long gone. In the summer months, it’s a great spot for swimming and water sports. In the colder season check out the last remaining Turkish sauna in Scotland at the Portobello Swim Centre. 

Camera Obscura

Camera Obscura is five floors full of wild illusions. It also happens to have a rooftop with one of the most picturesque views overlooking the city. It’s a fun-filled adventurous attraction for all ages. Inventors, artists, and technical experts all create mind bending installations. There are over 100 interactive and hands-on wonders to explore here. 

Summerhall

Summerhall is a vibrant one-stop shop set in a historical building in the heart of Edinburgh. It has a little bit of everything when it comes to cultural activities. Music venues, art galleries, cinemas, bars, and restaurants are all a part of this bustling bastian of cool. It offers a full program each year, of cutting edge performances, exhibitions, and workshops. 

Tantallon Castle 

A hidden gem in Edinburgh, the stunning coastal grounds of Tantallon Castle make for a lovely excursion just outside of the city. The estate was first created in the mid-1300s and was standing until its last siege in 1651. 

It’s located right on a cliff’s edge, making them some of the most magnificent ruins to see in Scotland. It’s also a great way to trade any hustle and bustle for a more tranquil scene. 

Shop at the Markets

Edinburgh is home to countless major weekly markets throughout the city and its surrounding boroughs to discover. One of the older family markets is called Stockbridge. It’s on Sundays and is located on Saunders Street. 

It’s a haven of independent traders selling gourmet fares, fresh produce, creative crafts, and original artwork. Pitt Market is located in an industrial yard. It’s an independent street food and events venue. There are a wide variety of vendors offering all the cuisine you can imagine alongside craft beer and live music performances. 

National Museum of Scotland 

Set in the smack dab of Old Town, the mission of the National Museum of Scotland is to preserve, interpret, and make accessible the past, present, and natural heritage of the country. 

It’s the largest multidisciplinary space of its kind in Scotland since 1985. There are 12 million items in the permanent collection. The range of exhibitions runs the gambit, including favorites like the Audubon’s Birds of America or the Typewriter Revolution. 

Enjoy the Galleries

The city of Edinburgh is known for its thriving arts scene. Sometimes it’s more fun to skip the big name museums in favor of exploring the smaller local galleries. Fruitmarket Gallery was once a fruit and vegetable market back in the 1930s. 

Today the warehouse space has been converted into one of the coolest places to see some contemporary art. Talbot Rice Gallery is part of the University of Edinburgh. It has three distinct sections: modern art, 17th century Dutch art, and works from young, experimental artists. 

The Johnston Terrace Wildlife Garden

Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, this little refuge feels like an urban oasis. It’s famous for being the world’s smallest inner city reserve, but don’t discount it because of its size. 

Beautiful wildflower meadows and breathtaking views make it an inspirational example of how preserved green spaces can be transformative. It can be closed and locked at times, so be sure to check the schedule before arriving. 

Royal Observatory Edinburgh 

On the Southside of the city atop Blackford Hill sits the Royal Observatory Edinburgh. It’s one of the top centers for astronomical research in Europe. Dating back to 1786, it offers such a cool way to learn about the mysteries of the cosmos in the starry skies above. There are regular open evenings and you can also book an appointment, depending on weather conditions and light pollution of course. 

Dean Village

Dean Village is a charming hamlet that was known for grain milling for over 300 years. It only officially became a part of the city in the 19th century. It’s a quaint and quiet residential nook with some interesting history.

The buildings and the scenery make it a super photogenic spot to go for a stroll. Check it out on a sunny day and be sure to go over the four arched Dean Bridge while wandering here. 

Mary King’s Close

Mary’s King Close is the only preserved 17th century alley in Edinburgh. It has become a popular tourist site, and requires a ticket to get in below street level. It feels like a transportive journey back in time, so you can get to know the hidden history of the area.

Learn about ancient myths and legends, famous royal visitors, and a deadly plague. Be sure to check out the quirky gift shop and tasty coffee house before heading out. 

Lauriston Castle

Lauriston Castle is a local treasure that often gets overlooked. It first existed in the 12th century, but got destroyed at the start of what was known as the Rough Wooing. It was rebuilt later in 1593, with more additions being made in the 1800s. 

Tours are available and they host some select events in the castle as well. Many of the rooms are fully decorated just the way they were left in 1926. See if you can spot the secret room in the Victorian library, where the entrance is hidden behind shelves of fake books. 

Gilmerton Cove 

This is actually one of the most mysterious coves in the city, which is really saying something. Gilmerton is a series of hand carved tunnels and passageways. Still to this day, no one actually knows why they were carved or by whom.

It didn’t even open until 2003. There are public guided tours, which will go over the myriads of theories that are still swirling around this secret subterranean lair. 

Enjoy the cool Street Art

For such a historically rich city, it’s super cool that Edinburgh is also known for an abundance of street art. Unexpected installations pop up all over the place, especially if you know where to look. Quality Yard is an 18th century walled courtyard covered in bright murals for a full 360 degree experience. 

Colinton Tunnel is the largest mural inside of a Victorian railway tunnel in all of Scotland. It’s a landmark that celebrates local history and heritage. The Edinburgh Book Sculptures can be spotted all around town so keep your eyes out. They were donated anonymously and are all made out of famous poetry titles. 

Blackness Castle 

Blackness Castle is a 15th century fortress on the south shore of Firth of Forth. It was used both as a residence for noblemen and as a state penitentiary for high status prisoners. Today it’s famous for being the setting for several films, such as Hamlet.

Due to its unique jutting position and narrow shape, it’s commonly referred to as ‘the ship that never sailed.’ It is recommended to book online before you go to guarantee entry here. 

Dr Neil’s Garden

This hidden gem is one of the most remarkable botanical gardens in Scotland. Dr Neil’s is open daily to the public and the entry is free. It’s a super tranquil space that began back in the 1960s. The views looking out over the lake will take your breath away. It can be hard to find, tucked away behind a 12th century church, but that’s really all part of the charm. 

Download directions on your map ahead of time and keep your eyes out for the small rod iron gate. There’s a lot of different bird species to spot and a psychic garden full of medicinal plants, though the serene scenery is reason enough to go for a stroll here. 

Cramond Island

Cramond Island is known as a bit of a ghost town. The 0.3 mile long stretch of coast was totally deserted except for a few residents for most of its history. Today, it’s only accessible at low tide and is covered in WWII ruins. 

The causeway here is lined with massive concrete pillars once used to keep submarines and ships safe as well as several bunkers now dawning graffiti. The whole place comes across like an accidental brutalist sculpture, and is ideal for snapping some unique pics.  

Chocolatrium 

Chocolatrium is one of the newest attractions in the entire city. The experience tour tells you all about the history of chocolate, the very particular process it takes to make it, and all the varieties that are possible.

There’s a lot of tasting involved, which is of course the best part. Stop by the small shop at the end to take some of the best treats in Edinburgh home with you. 

Surgeons Hall Museum 

This is actually three museums in one, the Wohl Pathology Museum, the History of Surgery Museum, and the Dental Collection. It’s certainly more of an unusual attraction, but it’s a great stop for anyone interested in science or medical curios.

It holds the largest collection of pathology paraphernalia in the whole world. The exhibits range from historical and educational to bizarre and grotesque. 

Where to Stay in Edinburgh?

There are so many amazing things to do in Edinburgh, so get out there and start exploring!

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