Top 14 Must-Visit Locations in Scotland

Many of Scotland's iconic destinations will be instantly recognizable to anyone who has admired a whisky label or shortbread box. Picture breathtaking mountains, scenic glens, shimmering lochs, tartan patterns, and haggis!

From the stunning Isle of Skye and the historic charm of Edinburgh to the flowing rivers of Speyside, Scotland's major attractions are as magnificent as you’d expect. Dig a little deeper, and you’ll discover a diverse and captivating land, filled with ancient settlements, lively clubs, fresh seafood, and crumbling abbeys.

So, where should you begin? After determining the ideal time for your trip, you'll want to select the top places to explore. Here’s our selection of the finest destinations in Scotland to kick off your adventure.

1. Edinburgh

Ideal destination for year-round fun

Scotland's capital is renowned for its festivals, but there's so much more to discover. Edinburgh is a city of diverse atmospheres: come in spring to see the Old Town set against a vibrant blue sky and blooming daffodils, or visit on a chilly winter day to experience fog enveloping the spires of the Royal Mile, rain-soaked cobblestones, and a warm glow from local pubs. With a premier modern art gallery, outstanding museums, haunting historic sites, and a grand 12th-century castle, there’s no shortage of entertainment throughout the year.

Insider tip: Kick off your Edinburgh adventure with a hike up Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano that offers breathtaking views of the city.

2. West Highland Way

Top destination for long-distance hiking

To truly immerse yourself in Scotland's stunning landscapes, there's no better way than by walking them. Majestic peaks rise above lochs, and sea cliffs overlook the tempestuous sea, alongside shorter woodland paths and delightful strolls through valleys adorned with purple heather. The coveted 96-mile West Highland Way stretches from Milngavie (near Glasgow) to Fort William, offering a week-long trek through some of the country's most breathtaking scenery, culminating at the foot of its highest peak, Ben Nevis.

If a long-distance hike isn’t feasible, you can opt for a day hike along a segment of the trail. For instance, walk the stretch from Rowardennan to Inversnaid, then return to your starting point via the Loch Lomond waterbus. No matter which section you choose, be sure to bring waterproof gear and midge repellent. Train enthusiasts will appreciate that sleeper trains run south from Fort William directly to London, providing an easy exit after your hike.

Side trip: The 1,345m (4,413ft) peak of Ben Nevis is accessible to anyone with moderate fitness: respect the mountain, and you'll be rewarded with stunning views that can reach as far as Northern Ireland, weather permitting.

3. North Coast 500

Ultimate destination for a scenic road trip

Stunning vistas are everywhere in the Highlands, but it’s the northern region where the views become truly breathtaking. This is Scotland's premier destination for exploring by car (cycling is also an option), featuring some of the most spectacular roadside scenery in Europe.

The North Coast 500 begins and concludes in the charming city of Inverness, winding past the lochs, sandy beaches, and golf courses along the east coast, then leading to the secluded cliffs and shores of Cape Wrath, the rugged beauty of Assynt, and the stark landscapes of Torridon. These sights, along with the warm Highland hospitality found in classic rural pubs and traditional crofting villages, create an unforgettable week-long adventure.

4. Isle of Skye

Premier destination for photographers

In a nation celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, the Isle of Skye is the standout gem. With its jagged Cuillin peaks, the unique formations of the Old Man of Storr and Quiraing, and the dramatic sea cliffs of Neist Point, there’s a photo opportunity waiting around nearly every corner.

Skye is also one of Scotland's prime locations for spotting golden eagles, and you'll find welcoming pubs and excellent seafood restaurants if you can tear yourself away from the stunning nature. However, this tourist allure makes Skye one of Scotland's busiest spots. The majority of visitors flock to Portree, Dunvegan, and Trotternish – yet peace and solitude can still be found in the island's more remote areas. Travel tip: Be ready for unpredictable weather – when conditions are good, they are truly fantastic, but it's also common for them to be less favorable.

5. Loch Lomond

Top destination for a lakeside hike

Just under an hour's drive from the vibrant city of Glasgow, the beautiful braes (banks) of Loch Lomond – celebrated in one of Scotland's most beloved songs – represent some of the country's most picturesque scenery.

At the center of Scotland's first national park, the loch starts as a wide, island-dotted lake in the south, its shores adorned with bluebell-laden forests, before narrowing in the north to a fjord-like gorge encircled by mountains. Side trip: The peak of Ben Lomond (974m/3,031ft) is a favored ascent – take the well-maintained path for a 7-mile round-trip along the popular Tourist Route (expect to spend about 5 hours).

6. Glasgow

Top destination for live music and pub culture

While Scotland's largest city may not boast the breathtaking views of Edinburgh, it compensates with a wealth of activities and a vibrant energy that captivates every visitor. Modern and dynamic, it’s the perfect place to explore art galleries and museums, as well as the creations of renowned local designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

The spirited atmosphere of Glasgow is best experienced in its bustling pubs and clubs, home to one of the world’s premier live music scenes. Local tip: Be sure to catch upcoming (primarily alt-rock) performances at the Barrowland (voted the UK's best music venue by Time Out magazine in 2023), a historic former ballroom, or head to the Sub Club for house and techno, the Clutha Bar for roots and rock, or Nice N Sleazy, a classic indie hangout.

7. Stirling

Top destination for castle enthusiasts

Perched securely atop a formidable wooded crag – the remnant of an extinct volcano – Stirling’s well-preserved Old Town is a haven of historic architecture and cobbled streets leading up to the imposing Stirling Castle. This fortress has a storied past, having endured bombardment from the Warwolf, a colossal English siege engine from the 14th century, and being besieged during the 1745 Jacobite uprising, while also contributing troops to the battle of Bannockburn (the pivotal battle immortalized at the conclusion of Braveheart), located just a few miles south.

Today, breathtaking views extending to the Highlands, stunning tapestries, and rich history make this Scotland’s premier castle – a fantastic family attraction. Planning tip: For a quieter experience, aim to visit in the afternoon; many tourists take day trips, allowing you to enjoy the castle almost by yourself by 4pm.

8. St Andrews

Premier destination for golfers

Scotland is the birthplace of golf, and the city of St Andrews remains celebrated as its spiritual hub, attracting both amateurs and professionals alike. The quintessential experience here features links courses – rugged coastal landscapes where heather and machair serve as rough, and the ever-present wind can turn a promising game into chaos in a heartbeat.

As the historic university town in Fife, St Andrews serves as the heart of golf and is an enchanting spot for golf enthusiasts. For those less interested in the sport, the city boasts remarkable medieval ruins, impressive university architecture, beautiful white sandy beaches, and delightful guesthouses and restaurants.

9. Skara Brae

Ultimate destination for ancient history enthusiasts

Visiting ancient locations can often make it challenging to connect with the past or the people who once inhabited them, but Scotland’s remarkable prehistoric sites leave a lasting impression. Few places provide such an insightful look into daily Stone Age life as Skara Brae in Orkney, showcasing meticulously crafted fireplaces, sleeping areas, storage spaces, and water systems.

This Neolithic settlement, over 5,000 years old, predates both Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Giza, having been buried beneath coastal sand dunes for centuries. Even now, it feels as if its former residents have merely stepped out for a fishing trip and might return at any moment.

10. Glen Coe

Ultimate destination for clan heritage

Scotland's most renowned glen encapsulates two quintessential aspects of the Highlands: stunning landscapes and a profound historical narrative. The tranquility and beauty of this valley today contrast sharply with the tragic events of the 17th century, when the local MacDonald clan was brutally slain by soldiers from the Campbell clan.

Some of the glen's most scenic walks, such as the path to the Lost Valley, trace the steps of fleeing clanspeople, many of whom lost their lives in the harsh winter conditions. Planning tip: Begin at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for insights into this stunning locale and its somber history.

11. Perthshire

Ultimate destination for nature lovers

In Perthshire, Scotland's picturesque heart, charming towns flourish with vibrant flowers, distilleries release enticing malty aromas, and sheep roam lush green pastures. This region embodies a natural richness unlike any other in Scotland.

Blue-gray lochs glisten, mirroring the ever-changing weather; ancient trees rise majestically within riverside woodlands; grand glens carve their way into unspoiled wilderness; and salmon leap upstream towards their birthplace.

12. Shetland Islands

Ideal destination for birdwatching

Positioned close to Norway, the Shetland Islands stand as Britain’s northernmost point. This starkly beautiful landscape – a recognized UNESCO geopark – retains a distinctly Scottish character, featuring deep, rugged glens bordered by steep hills, shimmering azure lochs, and, naturally, sheep roaming along quiet roads. However, it's the vibrant birdlife that truly captivates visitors.

From their arrival in late spring to the lively feeding frenzies of mid-summer, the vast populations of gannets, guillemots, skuas, puffins, and kittiwakes at Hermaness, Noss, Sumburgh Head, and Fair Isle offer some of the finest birdwatching in Britain. Local tip: Shetland is among the best spots in the UK to catch sight of orcas (and the Northern Lights).

13. Speyside

Premier destination for whisky enthusiasts

Whisky, Scotland's national drink derived from the Gaelic uisge beatha meaning “water of life,” has been crafted here for over 500 years. Speyside, known as Scotland's premier whisky region, boasts more than 50 distilleries renowned for their fruity and subtly spicy profiles (for peatier options, visit Islay).

Inquire at the Whisky Museum about the Malt Whisky Trail, a self-guided journey through the local distilleries. If you can only visit one, consider the Balvenie Distillery, which still employs a traditional malting floor – the aroma is delightful!

Tip for visitors: Dufftown, located at the heart of the region, hosts the biannual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

14. The Scottish Borders

Ideal destination for countryside strolls

Many tourists flock to Edinburgh and rush off to the Highlands, overlooking the Scottish Borders. This is a missed opportunity. Once a battleground for warlords and cattle rustlers, the Borders are steeped in history and offer excellent cycling and hiking trails.

The region features impressive country estates, such as Traquair House, known for its Jacobite Ale and secret chambers that once concealed Catholic priests. Additionally, visitors can explore stunning ruined abbeys, with the Gothic Melrose Abbey being the highlight, along with birdwatching and sea cliffs at St Abb’s Head. For the more adventurous, salmon fishing and thrilling mountain biking await at Glentress and Innerleithen.