Scotland is a land full of history, natural beauty, and local culture. There’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in Scotland.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Scotland for all types of travellers, including top attractions, must-see castles, outdoor adventures, and fun ideas for visiting with kids. You’ll also get tips and how to make the most of your trip.
Why visit Scotland?
Scotland is a diverse country. You can enjoy so many aspects of history, nature, and modern culture all in one destination. Wander through ancient ruins, walk along mountains and lochs, and discover the arts and local food scene.
🌍 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh are UNESCO-listed locations. Off the west coast is St Kilda, a must-see archipelago recognised for both its cultural heritage and its natural beauty. It’s one of the UK’s only two dual-designated UNESCO sites and home to nearly 1 million seabirds.
Easy Access from the UK & Europe
Edinburgh and Glasgow have frequent flights and direct trains from London, Paris, Amsterdam, and other major European cities.
Iconic Cultural Events
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the International Festival are important cultural events that take place in the city every August. They draw millions of visitors with thousands of shows. Alternatively, the Highland Games offer authentic Scottish culture across various villages and towns throughout the summer.
What are the best things to do in Scotland for first-time visitors?
Let’s explore the highlights that top every bucket list:
Visit Edinburgh Castle & the Royal Mile
Located on top of Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is Scotland’s most-visited paid attraction.
Tour Loch Ness
Explore Loch Ness on a cruise or day tour from Inverness. There are over 300 tour providers, so we suggest doing your research to find one that best fits your schedule.
Explore the Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is known as the #1 attraction in the Highlands. Don’t miss iconic landmarks such as the Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, or Neist Point.
Ride the Jacobite Steam Train (Hogwarts Express)
This round-trip from Fort William to Mallaig is often called “the greatest railway journey in the world”. Return tickets start at £69 for adults, and group discounts are available. Visit the official website for more details.
Walk the Streets of Glasgow
Discover Glasgow’s Victorian architecture and vibrant street art along the City Centre Mural Trail. Visit iconic landmarks like George Square and the Glasgow Cathedral.
Top attractions in Scotland for families and kids
When searching for things to do in Scotland with kids, families have so many choices. Starting in Edinburgh, Dynamic Earth is a must-visit interactive science centre where children can explore volcanoes and ice regions. Next, check out the Blair Drummond Safari Park near Stirling. This is one of the UK’s top-rated family attractions. Here, you can enjoy a drive-through safari, adventure playgrounds, a petting zoo, and sea lion shows. Alternatively, if your little ones prefer something more adventurous, the Highland Wildlife Park near Aviemore has many arctic animals, including the only polar bears in the UK.
Finally, the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye are perfect for very adventurous families as the crystal-clear pools and waterfalls are great for little ones. However, we recommend visiting with children aged 5 and up, as reaching the site requires a 20-minute hike and the paths are not suitable for strollers.
Our top recommendations for outdoor adventures and nature activities
Here are some of the best things to do in Scotland for nature lovers and thrill-seekers:
- Hike the Cairngorms or Ben Nevis
- Kayak on Loch Lomond: Paddle through calm waters surrounded by stunning Highland views.
- Drive the North Coast 500 (NC500
- Mountain bike in Glentress Forest
- Enjoy the “Right to Roam”: This law allows everyone to use most land and inland water in Scotland for activities like walking, cycling, hiking, wild camping, and swimming, as long as done responsibly.
Must‑see castles and historic sites
There are many iconic things to do in Scotland, especially when it comes to historic castles. Here are the top sites you can’t miss:
1. Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6 PM between April and September, and until 5 PM from October to March. Admission costs £21.50 for adults and £13 for children, and we suggest booking online to skip the queues.
2. Stirling Castle
Stirling Castle is another highlight in the Highlands. It has stunning hilltop views, restored period rooms, and interactive multimedia exhibits that bring Scotland’s history to life.
3. Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle is open from 9:30 AM to 5 PM between March and October, and from 10 AM to 4 PM during the off-season. Admission is £12 for adults, and £6.50 for children aged 5 to 15, while kids under 5 enter for free. Recognised as one of the UK’s most photographed castles, it has also been featured in several films and shows.
4. Urquhart Castle (Loch Ness)
Located on the edge of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle has stunning views and provides an eerie sense of mystery for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the legendary Nessie.
Final tips for planning your Scotland trip
Planning a trip to Scotland is part of the adventure, but keeping these tips in mind will make your holiday much more enjoyable.
First, consider your travel options. Scotland is well-connected by flights, especially into Edinburgh and Glasgow and has excellent train routes linking major cities together. For more flexibility, especially if you want to explore the Highlands or islands, renting a car is a great choice.
Next, be sure to book your accommodation early, especially during the busy summer months when festivals, school holidays, and better weather attract more visitors to Scotland.
For the best in accommodation, browse top-rated serviced apartments and short stays from My Stay Inn. With a variety of options including apartments, chalets and cottages, you will find the perfect base for your Scottish escape.
