10 days in Scotland - 3 travel itineraries

Experience the mesmerizing landscapes of Scotland, where historical customs seamlessly intertwine with the modern era. This guide features three unique 10-day itineraries designed to encompass a wide range of Scottish atmospheres. Explore the vibrant streets of Glasgow, the serene Trossachs Lakes, or ancient and charming Inverness. Tune in for an in-depth introduction to the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage as you travel through Scotland.

Is 10 days enough for Scotland?

10 days in Scotland is a great time frame to explore its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. While this may seem like a short amount of time for a country brimming with legends, landscapes, and sights, a well-planned itinerary can provide a rich experience. 

This period allows you to immerse yourself in the bustling life of cities such as Edinburgh and Glasgow, with their historic streets and modern liveliness. It also provides the opportunity to venture into the wild, heart-stirring Highlands, where the lochs and glens lie in wait, offering peace and adventure in equal measure. 

Alternatively, the chance to explore the mystical Isle of Skye or the cultural tapestry of the Shetland Islands will add depth to your journey. 10 days in Scotland is enough to taste its whisky, hear its music, see its iconic castles, and feel the warmth of its people, leaving you enchanted and hungry for more.

Feeling overwhelmed by the daunting task of planning the perfect Scottish itinerary? Why not entrust it to us? With our customized tailor-made travel service, you can simply enjoy your trip and we'll take care of all the planning and booking. Carefully designed by local travel experts, our trips are fully adaptable to your every whim.

Rough Guides tip: When planning your trip to Edinburgh, don’t miss the chance to select the perfect place to stay in the city.

Itinerary #1: The Ultimate Scottish Expedition

Join a 10-day expedition through Scotland, a country where history whispers with rugged landscapes and cultural richness thrive in the cities.

Begin your journey through Scotland by arriving in Edinburgh on the first day, immersing yourself in the city's rich history and vibrant culture. On day two, climb Arthur's Seat for panoramic views and then tour the royal Holyrood Palace. On the third day, head to St. Andrews, where you can stroll the world-famous golf courses and wander through the ruins of an ancient cathedral.

On day four, head north to Aberdeen to enjoy the charm of its Old Town and the serene beauty of Duty Park. Day five invites adventure in the Cairngorms National Park with its majestic walking trails and wildlife-watching opportunities.

Day six takes you to Inverness, where you'll explore the historic Culloden Battlefield and the mysterious waters of Loch Ness. On day seven, head to the Isle of Skye, where the picturesque town of Portree and the towering Old Man of Storr await.

On day eight, discover Fort William by challenging yourself to climb Ben Nevis or visit the mesmerizing Still Falls. On day nine, take in the natural splendor of Glencoe with its breathtaking valley walks and rich historical sites.

Conclude your Scottish odyssey on day ten, returning to Edinburgh with an unforgettable stop at The Kelpies, majestic horse-head sculptures, as a final ode to Scotland's enchanting landscapes and heritage. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check out this 10 days itinerary in Scotland:

Day 1

• Arrive in Edinburgh; transfer to your hotel.
• Spend the evening exploring Edinburgh's rich history and vibrant culture.
• Overnight in Edinburgh.

Day 2

• Morning hike up Arthur's Seat for panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon tour of the royal Holyrood Palace.
• Overnight in Edinburgh.

Day 3

• Morning transfer to St. Andrews.
• Stroll through the world-famous golf courses.
• Explore the ruins of the ancient cathedral.
• Overnight in St. Andrews.

Day 4

• Transfer to Aberdeen.
• Explore Aberdeen's charming Old Town.
• Relax in the serene beauty of Duthie Park.
• Overnight in Aberdeen.

Day 5

• Morning transfer to Cairngorms National Park.
• Enjoy majestic walking trails and wildlife-watching.
• Overnight near Cairngorms National Park.

Day 6

• Transfer to Inverness.
• Visit the historic Culloden Battlefield.
• Explore the mysterious waters of Loch Ness.
• Overnight in Inverness.

Day 7

• Transfer to the Isle of Skye.
• Visit the picturesque town of Portree.
• Hike to the towering Old Man of Storr.
• Overnight on the Isle of Skye.

Day 8

• Transfer to Fort William.
• Challenge yourself with a climb up Ben Nevis or visit Steall Waterfall.
• Overnight in Fort William.

Day 9

• Explore the natural splendor of Glencoe.
• Enjoy breathtaking valley walks and visit rich historical sites.
• Overnight in Glencoe.

Day 10

• Return to Edinburgh, stopping at The Kelpies.
• Transfer to the airport or extend your stay to further explore the city.

Want to visit Scotland? We can help you plan the perfect trip.

Itinerary #2: Scotland's Cultural Canvas

Experience a fascinating 10-day cultural trip through Scotland, exploring its natural beauty and discovering hidden historical gems. Your journey begins in the charming city of Edinburgh, where you'll explore the lush Royal Botanic Gardens. Day two will take you from urban charm to the pastoral elegance of Borders, visiting the legendary Melrose Abbey and Sir Walter Scott's home in Abbotsford.

Day three will be spent in picturesque Dumfries and Galloway, where the formidable Caerlaverock Castle and tranquil Galloway Forest Park await. The adventure continues as you sail to Arran on day four, where the majestic Brodick Castle and a spectacular hike up Goat's Fall Mountain await.

On day five, Oban awaits, which will be the gateway to the picturesque Isle of Mull with its colorful Tobermory Harbor. Day six is dedicated to exploring the serene Iona Abbey and the natural wonders of Staffa National Nature Reserve.

On day seven, head into the wild, unspoiled landscapes of Ardnamurchan, admiring unspoiled Sanna Bay and the lighthouse at Ardnamurchan Point. On day eight, you'll depart for the dramatic Applecross Peninsula, where winding roads lead to breathtaking views and exquisite local seafood dishes.

On day nine, immerse yourself in the majestic scenery of Torridon as you trek through the rolling hills of Torridon and along the tranquil Loch Marie. End your journey on day ten with a leisurely return to Edinburgh, pausing for reflection by the legendary waters of Loch Ness. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check out this 10 days itinerary in Scotland:

Day 1

• Arrive in Edinburgh and explore the lush Royal Botanic Gardens.
• Overnight in Edinburgh.

Day 2

• Travel to The Borders.
• Visit the legendary Melrose Abbey and Sir Walter Scott's Abbotsford home.
• Overnight in The Borders.

Day 3

• Transfer to Dumfries and Galloway.
• Explore Caerlaverock Castle and the tranquil Galloway Forest Park.
• Overnight in Dumfries and Galloway.

Day 4

• Sail to Arran.
• Visit Brodick Castle and hike up Goat Fell Mountain.
• Overnight on Arran.

Day 5

• Travel to Oban, the gateway to the Isle of Mull.
• Explore Oban and prepare for the island adventure.
• Overnight in Oban.

Day 6

• Ferry from Oban to the Isle of Mull.
• Visit Tobermory Harbor, Iona Abbey, and Staffa National Nature Reserve.
• Overnight on the Isle of Mull.

Day 7

• Transfer to the Ardnamurchan Peninsula.
• Admire Sanna Bay and the Ardnamurchan Point lighthouse.
• Overnight in Ardnamurchan.

Day 8

• Depart for the Applecross Peninsula.
• Enjoy the scenic drive and sample exquisite local seafood.
• Overnight on the Applecross Peninsula.

Day 9

• Travel to Torridon.
• Trek through Torridon Hills and visit Loch Maree.
• Overnight in Torridon.

Day 10

• Return to Edinburgh, stopping by Loch Ness.
• Reflect on your journey before your departure or overnight stay.

Itinerary #3: Scottish Family Odyssey

This unforgettable 10-day family adventure through Scotland combines urban attractions with natural wonders. Your journey begins in Edinburgh, where on day one you'll explore the wonders of Edinburgh Zoo. On the second day, you'll continue your exploration of the city with a visit to Dynamic Earth and the Museum of Childhood, where you'll delve into the depths of history and science.

On the third day, the adventure moves to Falkirk, home to the awe-inspiring Kelpies and the unique Falkirk Wheel boat ride. Day four will take you to the historic town of Stirling, where the majestic Stirling Castle and the spectacular Blair Drummond Safari Park await.

On day five, head west to Oban, where you'll enjoy marine life adventures and panoramic views from Mackaig's Tower. On the sixth day, the Isle of Mull awaits, where you can visit the colorful town of Tobermory and historic Duart Castle.

On day seven, Fort William welcomes you, with cultural treasures such as the West Highland Museum and an unforgettable journey on a Jacobite steam train. On day eight, move on to the natural beauty of Aviemore and visit Landmark Forest Adventure Park and Cairngorm Deer Center.

A serene day nine in Inverness is waiting for you with a visit to Loch Ness Center and Exhibition and dolphin watching in Moray Firth. Your Scottish family odyssey will conclude with a return to Edinburgh on day ten, during which you can admire the Queen's View at Pitlochry and let the kids play at Pitlochry Children's Play Park. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check out this 10 days itinerary in Scotland:

Day 1

• Begin your journey in Edinburgh.
• Explore the wonders of Edinburgh Zoo.
• Overnight in Edinburgh.

Day 2

• Continue city exploration with a visit to Dynamic Earth.
• Delve into history at the Museum of Childhood.
• Overnight in Edinburgh.

Day 3

• Transfer to Falkirk.
• Visit the awe-inspiring Kelpies and enjoy the Falkirk Wheel boat ride.
• Overnight in Falkirk.

Day 4

• Head to Stirling.
• Explore Stirling Castle and Blair Drummond Safari Park.
• Overnight in Stirling.

Day 5

• Travel west to Oban.
• Enjoy marine life adventures and views from McCaig's Tower.
• Overnight in Oban.

Day 6

• Ferry to the Isle of Mull.
• Visit Tobermory and Duart Castle.
• Overnight on the Isle of Mull.

Day 7

• Transfer to Fort William.
• Visit the West Highland Museum and take the Jacobite steam train.
• Overnight in Fort William.

Day 8

• Move to Aviemore.
• Visit Landmark Forest Adventure Park and Cairngorm Deer Centre.
• Overnight in Aviemore.

Day 9

• Travel to Inverness.
• Visit the Loch Ness Centre and go dolphin watching in Moray Firth.
• Overnight in Inverness.

Day 10

• Return to Edinburgh via Pitlochry.
• Admire Queen's View and visit Pitlochry Children's Play Park.
• Conclude your journey in Edinburgh.