Ask anyone who visited Scotland, and they will tell you it is the experience of a lifetime. A country covering the northern part of the United Kingdom is a masterpiece of nature. There are hundreds of beautiful places to visit in Scotland, and it’s hard to pick only a few. Scotland is a land of spectacular castles, dramatic coastline and valleys. It has an ancient heritage, whiskey distilling secrets, and it offers countless historic attractions. And yes, it is true – real men do wear skirts here.
Scotland is a land of legends and romance. You are never too far away from fantastic sightseeing opportunities and scenic locations.
The best places to visit in Scotland
Scotland – there is so much to see and do, and the hardest decision will be where to start.
Here are our top picks of the best things to do in Scotland. Hopefully, you will find plenty of ideas for your trip to this lovely country. Here is where to go…
1. Edinburgh
The best place where to start is, of course, Edinburgh. The country’s capital is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It’s also the second most popular tourist destination after London in Great Britain. But that is not all – Edinburgh has a rich history and well-preserved architecture and hosts numerous events and festivals. Hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world flock here for many reasons. One of them is Edinburgh Castle – it is the most famous fortress in the country. This Scottish national monument, which sits atop an extinct volcano, is among the top paid tourist attractions in the country. The castle is home to impressive exhibits such as Crown Jewels – make sure you don’t miss them!
If you can visit only one city in Scotland, make sure it is Edinburgh.
Also, take time to explore the buzzy streets of Edinburgh, the incredible shop-lined Royal Mile and Mary Queens Close. It is a secret underground street buried beneath the Royal Mile. Afterwards, explore the beautiful UNESCO Old and New towns of Edinburgh. And, if possible, climb up Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill for stunning views of the city.
READ MORE: The best places to visit in Edinburgh:
2. Stirling
If you can squeeze one more city into your itinerary, make sure it is Stirling. The historic Stirling is one of the best places to visit in Scotland if you are a history lover. This medieval Scottish town is full of charm and has a beautifully preserved Old Town. But that is not all; Stirling is famous for numerous battles, including Scotland’s wars of independence.
The top attraction here certainly is Stirling Castle, which was once a childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots. This castle is one of the largest and most important castles in Scotland. It remains a symbol of national pride and dominates the skyline for miles around.
Also, take some time to visit the National Wallace Monument. It is a 246 step tower and one of the most distinctive landmarks in the country. This gorgeous tower stands above the fields where the famous Scottish warrior led his troops to victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge.
3. Loch Lomond
Despite being less than an hour’s drive away from 50% of Scotland’s population, Loch Lomond offers more than pretty views. Britain’s largest lake is a part of the Trossachs National Park, which separates the Highlands from the Lowlands. The area is famous for breathtaking vistas, beautiful hikes and waterfalls.
Loch Lomond is one of the best places to visit in Scotland because it is a must-visit destination for everyone seeking fun outdoor activities. The largest loch in the country offers a variety of activities, such as fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. It is also a fantastic place for gentle cycling and hiking on trails around the loch. If possible, hike the Beinn Dubh trail – it is a challenging trail with beautiful views of the loch.
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Once here, take a relaxing boat cruise across Loch Lomond and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. And if lucky, you might even spot some local wildlife too.
4. Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland
No trip to Scotland for Harry Potter fans would be complete without visiting the Glenfinnan Viaduct. This impressive curving viaduct was the first structure built with mass concrete. But despite its importance as a civil engineering icon, Glenfinnan Viaduct gained its fame from Harry Potter movies. Yes, that is right, Glenfinnan Viaduct is famous as the “Harry Potter bridge”.
Catching a view of the Jacobite Express train crossing the viaduct is one of the best things to do in Scotland for all Harry Potter fans. It is an iconic scene from the movie and, therefore, many people visit this landmark. There are many beautiful walks in the area where you can catch different views and shots.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The Jacobite Express runs from mid-April to mid – October. The train crosses the viaduct every morning around 10.30 AM and 3 PM in the afternoon. Tickets book up quickly – buy them well in advance. If you only want to see the viaduct, there are a few car parks near the village.
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Afterwards, see the nearby Glenfinnan Monument. You can also drive to Loch Eilt – it’s another Harry Potter filming location.
5. Glencoe Valley, Scotland
As many will know, Glencoe Valley is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Scotland. Many people will surely tell you that Glencoe is perhaps the most famous glen here. Yes, that is right, Glencoe Valley is one of the most beautiful Scottish regions. You can find it south of the Highland area of western Scotland.
Three Sisters mountain range offers many perfect photo opportunities.
You might not know it, but a supervolcano formed this beautiful landscape millions of years ago. Later, glaciers in the last Ice Age sculpted this area. Today, exploring Glencoe Valley is one of the best things to do in Scotland if you love dramatic scenery. In fact, Glencoe Valley and the surrounding region are one of the most scenic places in Scotland.
The area is famous not only for the infamous massacre, which occurred here but also for its mountainous scenery. It is a popular destination for hillwalking and mountaineering because there are many wonderful mountain walks. Some of the best walks are the Lost Valley or shorter 3-km the Glencoe Lochan trails. If you prefer a more challenging hike, then the Buachaille Etive Beag hike might be for you. The West Highland Way is also a popular long-distance trail.
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If you do not fancy hiking, stop at the Three Sisters Car park on the A82, which offers stunning views.
6. Loch Achtriochtan in Scotland
While in the area, if possible, explore the nearby Loch Achtriochtan, which lies not too far from the village Glencoe. Beautiful Lake Achtriochtan, which is now under the care of the National Trust, is one of the most scenic places in Scotland. It may not be the largest loch, but it offers lovely views of the mountains in the background. There are numerous walks and hikes around Loch Achtriochtan. The area is also perfect for a picnic on a summer day.
GOOD TO KNOW:
There is a car park at the end of the lake – Loch Achtriochtan Viewpoint Car Park.
7. Glencoe Lochan
Whatever you do, do not leave without visiting Glencoe Lochan. Glencoe Lochan is undoubtedly one of the most scenic places in Scotland. This beautiful lake with amazing reflections has an idyllic setting north of Glencoe village.
Glencoe Lochan is unique because this beautiful lake looks like a miniature Lake Louise in British Columbia. In the 19th century, Lord Strathcona planted North American trees here. His Canadian wife was homesick, and he wanted to remind her of her homeland.
Today Glencoe Lochan is one of the best places to visit in Scotland because this picturesque lake offers beautiful views of the rugged mountains. There are 3 trails to choose from – each of them offers stunning views of the lake. A well-marked trail will take you around the lochan. You can choose a more adventurous trail or an easy path with a simple loop around the lake.
8. Glen Etive Road
Glen Etive Road – one of Scotland’s beautiful drives
Some of the best places to visit in Scotland are spots you haven’t heard of. One of those places is most likely Glen Etive Road in the heart of the Highlands. It is close to Glencoe village, about 27 miles from Fort William. This dead-end, single track drive with patchy mobile phone signal is, in fact, a road to nowhere. Author Ian Fleming’s family had a lodge somewhere here. The road was used as a location for the Bond movie Skyfall. While some people come here to recreate the James Bond moment, the others visit the area for impressive views.
The Glen Etive road with towering mountains is one of the most beautiful roads in Scotland. The wild waters of the river flow through the pools towards the Loch Etive.
Glen Etive Road is a 12-mile road that offers beautiful views of dramatic mountains and waterfalls. It definitely needs to be on your list when planning your road trip to Scotland. The road follows the river quite closely before running into a thick forest. The views along the Glen Etive road are some of the best in the country. Some even say that Glen Etive Road is one of the most scenic places in Scotland. For that reason, Glen Etive Road is one of the best places to visit in Scotland.
9. Fort William
Afterwards, stop at Fort William. This attractive resort town in the West Highlands is a famous starting point for many excursions. It’s a gateway to the UK’s highest peak and many people come here because of skiing, walking and beautiful scenery. Fort William is the Highlands’ best-known resort where you can find plenty of accommodation, ranging from guesthouses to hotels.
Fort William is one of the popular places to visit in Scotland because it is an excellent starting point for excursions. Easy day trips from here are the Glencoe Valley or the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Also, Fort William is a starting point for the famous Jacobite Steam Train (the Hogwarts Express).
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Don’t miss a beautiful walk to Steall Waterfall, which you can find about 20 minutes from Fort William.
10. Ben Nevis, Scotland
It is easy to understand why Ben Nevis is on the top of the wish list for many hikers. The highest point in Scotland is also the highest mountain in the British Isles. The locals refer to it as ‘the Ben’ – it is quite a sight to see.
The closest town to Ben Nevis is Fort William – it is less than a 20-minute drive from the base. In the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre, you can grab a detailed map and start your ascent. During the summer months, the summit is within reach of anyone fit. Even though it is steep, it is doable in less than four hours (one way) if you are an experienced or fit climber. Many people consider Ben Nevis one of the country’s greatest challenges. Therefore, hiking Ben Nevis is one of the best things to do in Scotland. During the winter months, Ben Nevis is, without a doubt, one of the best places to ski in the Highlands.
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Take a cable car from the ski resort to reach the top part of the mountain range during the summer months.
11. Isle of Skye
It’s easy to see why the Isle of Skye is one of the best places to visit in Scotland. This largest island of the Inner Hebrides has absolutely everything to offer its visitors. This beautiful island has many unique rock formations, waterfalls and pretty sandy beaches. It also has green lakes, romantic castles and dramatic sea cliffs. But that is not all – the Isle of Skye is also famous for wildlife spotting, whiskey distilleries and fossil discovery.
The Isle of Skye is world-famous for its striking landscape.
Once here, don’t miss the iconic Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Glen Pools, which are excellent hikes. Also, make sure you reserve half of a day for the Quiraing – it is one of the most scenic places on the island.
Visiting the Isle of Skye is one of the best things to do in Scotland if you are looking for stunning scenery. The Isle of Skye is one of the most popular destinations in Scotland and is a nature lover’s paradise. Moreover, this island has many unusual formations and waterfalls almost everywhere you look. It is perfect for a road trip, photographers, walkers and adventurous swimmers.
READ MORE: Beautiful places to visit in the Isle of Skye
12. Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle most likely appears on a list of best things to see in Scotland more than any other castle. It is because this castle is one of the most beautiful Scottish castles. Eilean Donan Castle is undoubtedly the most photographed fortress in Scotland. You can find it on a small tidal island in the western Highlands of Scotland. What makes this fortress unique is the fact that three lochs meet here.
The castle was built as a protective system against the Vikings. It has featured in many movies and today is a dream wedding location for many couples. Eilean Donan Castle is an iconic structure and, therefore, it is one of the best places to visit in Scotland. Make sure you leave enough time to explore the castle itself.
13. Beinn Eighe in Scotland
One of the scenic places in Scotland is undoubtedly Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve. This complex mountain massif in the Torridon area in the Highlands of Scotland lies south of the Loch Maree. Loch Maree is one of the best places to visit in Scotland for many reasons. It is easy to visit, is very peaceful and offers excellent photo opportunities. Yes, that is right, Loch Maree and nearby Beinn Eighe Nature reserve are well worth a visit.
Beinn Eighe, with beautiful mountain peaks and ancient pinewoods, was Britain’s first Nation Nature Reserve. The mountains are famous for their Caledonian pine forest. Some of the trees were standing here before England and Scotland united their parliaments more than 300 years ago. But that is not all – Loch Maree is the fourth largest freshwater loch in the country. It is home to unique wildlife and biodiversity. You are quite right to think that this site is of one of the largest breeding concentrations of a black-throated diver in the UK.
Several locations offer stunning views of Beinn Eighe and Loch Maree. Kayaking and paddleboarding are perfect ways to discover this massive lake. Alternatively, there are beautiful walking trails nearby. You can choose a woodland path where you can walk through old pine wood on the lower slopes of Beinn Eighe. This strenuous hike with beautiful views of the lake is about 1.8 km long, and you will need about 1 hour. There is also a more challenging mountain trail, which is about 6.5 km (4 miles) long, and you will need 4-5 hours for that.
14. Pass of the Cattle (Bealach na Ba)
When it comes to scenic places in Scotland, the Bealach na Ba is hard to miss. This epic mountain pass is a popular tourist attraction because it is a part of the famous North Coast 500 route. This road is five-mile (9 km) long. Many years ago, people used this track for moving their livestock.
Bealach na Ba is the third-highest road in Scotland and one of the most beautiful drives in the United Kingdom. It offers stunning views of the countryside and the nearby Isle of Skye. But that is not all – this route, located in the Applecross peninsula, has the steepest ascent of any road in the United Kingdom.
Even though Bealach na Ba is a mountainous road, it is one of the best places to visit in Scotland for adventurous souls. The Pass of the Cattle is a narrow single track road with sharp curves. Its challenging hairpin bends are a magnet not only for brave drivers but also for cyclists.
Driving the winding mountain road Bealach na Ba is one of the best things to do in Scotland. It’s because this road offers one of the most scenic drives in the United Kingdom.
GOOD TO KNOW:
There are plenty of passing places along the road, but they are not for parking. Stop at the summit – there is a viewpoint with plenty of parking spaces.
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Keep your eyes peeled for some Highland Cow too.
15. Loch Ness in Scotland
Did you know that Loch Ness contains more water than every lake in England and Wales combined? Yes, that is right, the most famous loch in the world is up to 240 metres (788 feet) deep and about 36 km (23 miles) long.
Believe it or not, this second deepest loch in Scotland (after Loch Morar) never freezes. But that is not the only reason why visiting Loch Ness is one of the best things to do in Scotland.
Many visitors come to Loch Ness with one thing in mind: to catch a glimpse of its famous Loch Ness monster. Even though seeing the mysterious monster is far from guaranteed, it is well worth seeing this massive lake. Loch Ness is also famous for boat trips, which offer beautiful views of Scottish scenery. And, if lucky, you will see some local wildlife!
The famous Loch Ness has the largest volume of fresh water in the United Kingdom. Even though it is not the most dramatic of all lakes in Scotland, it is well worth stopping here for a few hours.
Alternatively, you take a stroll along the lake or visit nearby villages. Don’t miss Fort Augustus – it is a charming village at the southern tip of the lake. This pretty village is famous for locks used to move ships through the Caledonian Canal. Fort Augustus is a popular starting point for cruises on the Loch Ness. Once here, stop at Miele’s Gelateria for award-winning ice cream.
Another point of interest is Urquhart Castle. Even though it lies in ruins, this iconic castle offers panoramic views overlooking Loch Ness. It is one of the most photographed locations in the area.
16. Inverness
Not too far away is charming Inverness. The most northerly city in the United Kingdom is the region’s capital. It is also the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands. But that is not all – Inverness is a popular starting point for a trip around the Loch Ness because it lies at the east end of the lake. In recent years, Inverness has been a popular destination because this city is the start and end of the NC 500 adventure. Thereby, Inverness is one of the best places to visit in Scotland.
This quaint city is also perfect for exploration by foot. Walk around Inverness Castle where, many years ago, a governor refused an entry to Queen of Scots. Today you can admire from here beautiful views over the River Ness. Also, stop at St Andrew’s Cathedral, and pop into the Victorian Market and the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery.
17. North Coast 500, Scotland
The North Coast 500 is another must on your Scottish itinerary. The North Coast 500 or NC 500 is, for many travellers, the answer to the iconic Route 66. As the name suggests, this route is 500 miles (804 km) long and is the best way to see the real Scotland. Driving the NC500 is a popular road trip route in the country and, therefore, it is one of the best things to do in Scotland.
The road takes you through the most incredible Scottish countryside, where you can see castles, wildlife and history. You can even try some whiskey. Sheep on the road is a common occurrence here. Wild camping is also legal here. It is one of the unspoilt areas of the UK and is perfect for slowing you down. Five days is the official recommendation, but we would suggest at least seven. Starting in Inverness, the route spans across the north coast of Scotland. It will take you to John o’Groats before heading down to beautiful Bealach na Ba road. You will witness some of the best coastal scenery.
18. Plodda Falls in Scotland
If chasing waterfalls is what you are after, then consider visiting Plodda Falls. It is one of those undiscovered, off-the-beaten-track attractions hidden in the Highlands of Scotland.
Plodda Falls are the most spectacular waterfalls in the area, and, therefore, they deserve to be on your list of things to see in Scotland. They are the highest waterfalls in the area, and somehow, they are still undiscovered by tourists. You can find Plodda Falls inside Glen Affric National Nature Reserve.
Follow the Plodda Falls Trail and hike amongst tall Caledonian pine trees until you find a viewing platform. The upper lookout platform over the top of the waterfalls allows you to see the waterfall from the top.
Afterwards, follow the steps and see the waterfall from the smaller lower lookout platform, which offers the best views of Plodda Falls.
Plodda Falls are one of the best places to visit in Scotland because they are one of the hidden gems in Scotland. They are also one of the most spectacular and highest waterfalls in the area. Also, Plodda Falls are somewhat out of the way from the busy shores of Loch Ness, and, therefore, they offer a peaceful experience.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Getting to Plodda Falls is quite an adventure – you will need to use a narrow road and forest track. You can find waterfalls about 5 miles (8km) southwest of the village of Tomich. Not far from them you will find free parking spaces.
19. Cairngorms National Park in Scotland
If you are looking for a bit of wilderness, it is worth planning your trip to Cairngorms National Park. It is the largest national park in the UK, covering nearly 2,000 square miles of land. Over the years, Cairngorms National Parks has built up a reputation as a place with one of the most unique wildlife habitats in the UK. But that is not all – this park has beautiful lakes and rivers. It is also home to five out of the six highest peaks in Scotland. Cairngorms National Park has many walking routes for beginners and strenuous climbs that allow visitors to explore the region. There are many things to see and do – from skiing to mountain biking and white water rafting – you will not get bored here. If lucky, you might meet local reindeers or spot the Northern Lights.
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The 90 miles long Snow Road Scenic route is the highest public road in the UK. This road is also one of the best locations to spot rare wildlife.
20. Corrieshalloch Gorge, Scotland
Although many locations in the United Kingdom fit the category of a natural wonder, some are more spectacular than others. The Corrieshalloch Gorge is one of those places. This unique place is one of the most beautiful gorges of its type in Britain. You might not know it, but the river that flows through it today did not carve this beautiful gorge. The meltwater from the glacier that covered northern Scotland thousands of years ago formed the Corrieshalloch Gorge.
The Corrieshalloch Gorge through the River Droma rushes is one of the natural wonders of the Scottish Highlands.
Today because of its extraordinary features, the Corrieshalloch Gorge is a National Nature Reserve. The National Trust for Scotland, together with Nature Scot, manage this unusual attraction, which provides evidence of how glacial meltwater can create a deep gorge.
A Victorian suspension bridge and a metal viewing platform, which allow beautiful views, make the Corrieshalloch Gorge one of the best places to visit in Scotland. Moreover, a ravine is home to the 46 metres high Falls of Measach, which you can admire.
GOOD TO KNOW:
You can find the Corrieshalloch Gorge after only an hour’s drive from Inverness. Even though the walk is short and steep, it is still wheelchair accessible. A zig-zag woodland trail will bring you to a Victorian suspension bridge that can hold only six people at a time. Afterwards, cross the bridge and follow the path which will bring you to a metal viewing platform. Allow yourself at least 30 minutes – 1 hour to explore the Corrieshalloch Gorge.
21. Orkney Islands in Scotland
If you would rather experience something a little quieter away from the typical tourist spots, consider visiting the Orkney Islands. It is a group of more than 70 islands north of the Scottish mainland with only about 20 inhabited islands.
The Orkney Islands are famous for their rocky coastline and wildlife, such as puffins, seabirds, seal colonies, and dolphins. But that is not all – the Orkney Islands have some of the oldest and best-preserved Neolithic sites in Europe. Even UNESCO included the Heart of Neolithic Orkney on its list.
Here you can find a remarkable collection of monuments, which the prehistoric people of Orkney built out of stone. Standing stones, stone circles, and chambered tombs are some of the top attractions on the islands. Don’t miss Skara Brae – it is the best-preserved village from the Stone Age in Europe. The locals built it over 5,000 years ago, and for centuries a sand dune covered it completely. Yes, that is right, Skara Brae is older than the Great Pyramids in Egypt or the famous Stonehenge. Some call it “Scottish Pompeii” due to its outstanding preservation. For those reasons, the Orkney Islands are one of the best places to visit in Scotland.
Now you know what are the best things to do in Scotland!
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