Scotland – a land rich in history, mystique, and natural wonders – draws in many travelers with its rugged landscapes, ancient castles, and lively culture. Whether you're drawn to the bustling streets of Edinburgh or the tranquil shores of Loch Ness, here’s our guide to creating the perfect Scotland itinerary.
"Many travelers overpack their itineraries," advises Rory, one of our in-house Scotland travel experts. “Scotland has a lot to see, but you don’t want to forget to schedule some time to relax during your trip.”
“The weather in Scotland can be really unpredictable,” she adds, “you definitely want to pack layers and a mackintosh, especially if you’re planning on spending a lot of time outside.”
When asked what was the one quintessential Scottish experience, Rory suggests, ”While the most popular destination is Edinburgh — and it is a fantastic place to explore — I would really encourage anyone visiting Scotland to explore beyond the city. Personally, I couldn't imagine skipping the Scottish Highlands, they are truly breathtaking.”
Feeling daunted by the challenge of organizing the perfect itinerary? Why not leave it to us? With our tailor-made trip service, you can relax and enjoy your adventure while we handle all the planning and arrangements. Crafted by seasoned local experts like Rory, our trips can be customized to fit your preferences seamlessly. And with around-the-clock support, you can embark on your journey with confidence, knowing we're here to assist you every step of the way.
If you’re planning your trip to Scotland, here are some suggested itineraries created by our local travel experts to serve as a starting point. For more inspiration, see our itineraries for different durations: 3 days - 5 days - 7 days - 10 days
While three days may seem short, it's still possible to get a taste of Scotland's essence within this timeframe. This is especially true if you are hoping to add Scotland to a larger trip. Here’s an example of a three-day trip, designed by our travel experts.
Day one kicks off in Aviemore, your gateway to Cairngorms National Park. Get ready to immerse yourself in nature's wonders, from diverse wildlife to thrilling outdoor activities.
On day two, hop over to the enchanting Isle of Skye. Lace up your hiking boots and trek to the mesmerizing Fairy Pools. Then, drink in the rugged beauty of Neist Point Lighthouse. Don't forget to check out other must-see sights like the iconic Old Man of Storr and majestic Dunvegan Castle.
Now, brace yourself for day three's challenge: conquering Ben Nevis in Fort William. As you ascend the highest peak in the British Isles, be prepared for jaw-dropping vistas and a triumphant summit experience.
Scotland, Eilean Castle @ Shutterstock
With five days at your disposal, you can delve a bit deeper into Scotland's treasures. On this itinerary, you’ll start your journey in Edinburgh, where the medieval charm of the Old Town sets the scene on day one. Uncover hidden stories on The Real Mary King’s Close tour for a peek into the city's underground secrets.
On the second day, head to Rosslyn to marvel at the intricate carvings of Rosslyn Chapel, then wander through the Scottish Borders, dotted with historic abbeys and stunning landscapes.
The third day whisks you away to the Orkney Islands, where you'll step back in time at Skara Brae's Neolithic village and gaze upon the ancient Ring of Brodgar before returning to the Mainland.
In Fort William on the fourth day, delve into local history at the West Highland Museum and hop aboard the iconic Jacobite Steam Train for breathtaking Highland views.
Wrap up your journey on the fifth day in Stirling, exploring Doune Castle, a star of Outlander fame, and reflecting on the significance of the Battle of Bannockburn site before heading to your next destination.
Fairy Pools Waterfall Skye Island Scotland © Shutterstock
A week in Scotland opens up even more possibilities for exploration This week long itinerary is perfect for anyone who wants to see the infamous and breathtaking castles of Scotland.
Your journey kicks off in Edinburgh, where you'll be spellbound by the majestic Edinburgh Castle on day one. Day two invites you to explore of the historic Linlithgow Palace before a scenic drive to Stirling, where you'll uncover the wonders of Stirling Castle and the medieval allure of Doune Castle on day three.
Prepare for more enchantment on day four with a visit to the enchanting Inveraray Castle, followed by a picturesque drive to the coastal gem of Oban. On day five, set sail to the Isle of Mull and discover the majestic Duart Castle, then hop on a ferry to the mystical Isle of Skye. Day six is sure to me memorable as you explore Skye's wonders, including Dunvegan Castle and the iconic Eilean Donan Castle.
As your journey draws to a close on day seven, soak in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Glencoe on your way back to Edinburgh.
A cottage perched on the Isle of North Uist © Shutterstock
With 10 days in Scotland, you have the luxury of experiencing the country in greater depth. On this 10-day Scotland itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to discover many of Scotland’s highlights.
Dive into Edinburgh's historic charm on day one, followed by a hike up Arthur's Seat and a visit to Holyrood Palace on day two.
Day three takes you to the iconic golf courses and ancient ruins of St. Andrews, while day four unveils the rugged beauty of Aberdeen's Granite City and the tranquility of Duthie Park.
Venture into the wilderness of Cairngorms National Park on day five, encountering breathtaking scenery and fascinating wildlife. Day six brings you to Inverness, where you'll explore the haunting history of Culloden Battlefield and the mystique of Loch Ness.
Continue your exploration on day seven with a visit to the picturesque Isle of Skye, followed by an exhilarating climb up Ben Nevis in Fort William on day eight. Reflect on the poignant past of Glencoe's valley on day nine before returning to Edinburgh on day ten, with a final stop to marvel at the Kelpies, capping off an epic journey through Scotland's treasures.
Fishing boat moored in Loch Broom Ullapool © Tim lamper/Shutterstock
Prefer to explore Scotland by car? This country can be a great place to go for a road trip. Here’s our favorite week long road trip itinerary.
Kick off on day one with a scenic drive from Inverness to Applecross. Conquer the legendary Bealach na Bà pass, then soak in the stunning views on the Applecross Peninsula.
Day two takes you from Applecross to Torridon, where you'll be captivated by the serene beauty of Loch Maree and the lush landscapes of Inverewe Garden.
Continue your adventure on day three, traveling to Ullapool. Don't miss the awe-inspiring Corrieshalloch Gorge and the lively Ullapool Harbour.
On day four, journey from Ullapool to Lochinver, uncovering the historic ruins of Ardvreck Castle and unwinding on the pristine shores of Achmelvich Beach.
Day five sees you traverse from Lochinver to Durness, crossing the iconic Kylesku Bridge and exploring the dramatic Smoo Cave.
On day six, head from Durness to Wick, visiting the remote Cape Wrath and iconic John O'Groats along the way.
Wrap up your adventure on day seven, returning from Wick to Inverness. Make sure to stop by the majestic Dunrobin Castle and historic Dornoch Cathedral for a perfect ending to your unforgettable North Coast 500 exploration.
Loch Tummel and Tay Forest Park © grafxart/Shutterstock
Struggling to decide when is the best time to plan your visit to Scotland?
January kicks off the year with a chilly vibe, perfect for hitting the slopes if you're into winter sports. Plus, you'll find fewer crowds and some deals on accommodations. Moving on to February, expect some magical snowfall, making Scotland look straight out of a fairytale. March brings in spring, with milder temps and blooming flowers, ideal for exploring without bumping into too many folks.
As April rolls in, you'll notice more visitors, but don't worry, prices are still reasonable, and the weather is just right for outdoor adventures. Come May, things start heating up – both in terms of temperature and tourist numbers. It's peak season in June, July, and August, with long sunny days, and festivals galore. Just expect to share those breathtaking views with quite a few others.
September and October offer a quieter vibe, with gorgeous autumn foliage and fewer crowds. By November, things start winding down, making it a great time to snag some cozy accommodations at a steal. Finally, December wraps up the year with festive cheer, Christmas markets, and a sprinkle of snow, making it a magical time to experience Scotland's winter wonderland.
In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Scotland
written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 09.04.2024
