great trips to scotland

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The 12 best scotland tours.

Explore castles, lakes, national parks and more on these multiday excursions.

The Best Scotland Tours

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Bagpipes, highland cows (or "coos"), tartans, castles, breathtaking landscapes – there's a lot to love about Scotland. Add in its famous whisky and legendary cities and you'll find plenty to do here. With so much to see, you'll need a few days – at minimum – to explore. Save yourself the hassle of planning outings, meals and transportation by signing up for a guided tour.

Using both expert opinion and traveler sentiment, U.S. News determined that these are the best tours of Scotland. To help you find the perfect trip for you, our editors found a range of trips of different durations that take travelers to must-see destinations like Edinburgh , Glasgow and the Scottish Highlands , but will also bring you to lesser-known destinations.

• Short tours: three to five days
• Medium tours: six to nine days

Long tours: 10 or more days

Short tours: three to five day trips.

Highland Explorer Tours – Isle of Skye & the Highlands

Price: Adults from $745; kids from $715 Duration: 3 days

This bus tour is a feast for the eyes as it takes you through the lush Scottish Highlands. You'll view Rannoch Moor, Glen Coe, Fort William, Dunvegan Castle, Loch Ness, Ben Nevis and the Isle of Sky (where you'll spend a full day). What's more, if you book the tour for sometime between April and October you'll get a chance to ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, famous for its appearance as the Hogwarts Express in the "Harry Potter" films. Travelers routinely praise the storytelling guides as well as the scenery that surrounds you for the trip.

The trip begins and ends in Edinburgh. The fee includes bed-and-breakfast accommodations, the ferry to Isle of Skye and entrance to Dunkeld Cathedral and the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre. Some activities (like the Jacobite Steam Train) cost extra, as do meals. Highland Explorer Tours also runs a wintertime version of this tour.

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Rabbie's – Speyside Whisky Trail

Price: From 195 pounds (around $250) Duration: 3 days

This tour for whisky-loving travelers stops at three distilleries where you can sample their tipples. You'll also visit Speyside, a region with 50 different distilleries, and Elgin, a town with a great whisky shop. If you depart on Monday or Wednesday, you'll also stop by a cooperage to see how barrels are made. In between tastings, you'll see Cairngorms National Park and Royal Deeside. Travelers applaud the attentive guides and note that if someone in your party isn't a whisky drinker, they'll still find plenty to do.

The tour does not include meals, tickets to attractions or accommodations so that you can customize the experience to your liking. However, you can have Rabbie's book hotel or B&B accommodations in Grantown-on-Spey, the town where you'll stay for two nights. Fees vary based on the number of occupants and accommodation type, but you can expect to pay 55 to 150 pounds (about $70 to $190) per night per person. Breakfast is typically included in your stay. Short on time? Try a one- or two-day whisky tour from the company.

Scottish Routes – Four-Day Islay Whisky Tour

Price: From 1,175 pounds (about $1,500) Duration: 4 days

Stop at around six different distilleries and warehouses for whisky tastings on this tour with Scottish Routes. The bulk of your stay is on Islay island, where you won't only get tours of local whisky establishments and tastings, but you'll also be able to explore the surrounding villages and sites. On the way back to Edinburgh, you'll also stop in Inveraray to grab lunch and visit the Loch Fyne Whisky Shop. Whisky lovers say the tour is excellent and praise the itinerary.

No more than 18 people will be on the tour and travelers must be at least 18 to participate. Transportation, B&B accommodation and whisky tours and tastings are included in the fee. There's also a five-day version of this tour.

HAGGiS Adventures – Puffin Island Hopper

Price: From $929 Duration: 4 days

If you're visiting Scotland in the summer, don't miss the chance to see nesting puffins. This trip focuses on the cute little birds as it travels to Mill Iona and Staffa islands. You could see more wildlife (think: seals and whales) during the included wildlife cruise. You'll also see Loch Lomond and Oban, and stop at a distillery for a tasting. Tourgoers say the guides are great and applaud the locations along the tour.

Overnight accommodations at three-star hotels, three breakfasts, ferry tickets, the distillery tour and the wildlife cruise are all included in the tour fee. Trips depart from and return to Edinburgh. Keep in mind the minimum age to take this tour is 18. Since HAGGiS Adventures is a sister company to Highland Explorer Tours, you may be traveling with tour-takers from that company.

Abercrombie & Kent – Scotland by Rail: Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland

Price: From $11,385 Duration: 5 days

Climb aboard an Edwardian train to see Scotland in style. During your trip aboard Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, you'll pass by incomparable landscapes in between stops. Stops include the towns Keith, Plockton and Garve, plus Ballindalloch Castle and Glamis Castle. Activities throughout the tour include guided walks, fishing, shopping, private tours of a whisky distillery and more. Tourgoers say A&K is well organized and appreciate the pacing of the trip.

Accommodations aboard the train, all meals, internet access and activities are included in your fare. In order to book this trip, you'll need to contact an A&K representative who will help customize your trip.

Medium tours: six to nine day trips

Culture Trip – Scotland by Train – London Start

Price: From $3,209 Duration: 7 days

If you're hoping to tack on a few days in London before your Scottish adventure, this tour is a great option. After departing London, you'll journey to Glasgow for a city tour and whisky tasting. You'll then venture through some high points of Scotland's landscape including the Isle of Skye and Cairngorms National Park. The trip's finale is in Edinburgh. Some of the included activities are guided walks, private museum tours, whisky tastings and a boat trip. Overall, tour-takers enjoyed their trips but some wished the hotels chosen were better quality.

Stays in three- or four-star hotels, daily breakfast and many activities are included in the tour fee. Keep in mind that you need to be in moderately good shape for this tour as there is a lot of walking (and some hiking) involved. Culture Trip offers tours around the world, including one to Italy.

Abercrombie & Kent – Scottish Highlander – Caledonian Canal & Loch Ness

Price: From $5,690 Duration: 7 days

This small tour (no more than eight participants) takes place on the Scottish Highlander boat. During the cruise, you'll make stops at Cawdor Castle, Loch Ness (where you'll get to cruise again), Urquhart Castle, Fort Augustus, Eilean Donan Castle, a whisky distillery and more. Onboard, you'll find a deck with radar and fish finder equipment, a lounge with a stereo and internet access. Tour-takers applaud the company's selection of stops, though some wish communication before and after the tour had been better.

The tour's price includes meals, beverages, onboard accommodations and activities. You will need to contact the company to book the cruise. A&K runs a similar Scotland tour where the grand finale is watching the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a renowned music and cultural festival.

Firebird Tours – Best of Scotland

Price: From $3,745 Duration: 8 days

Get an overview of all Scotland has to offer with this train and car tour. Along this private tour, you'll explore Edinburgh, Inverness, Isle of Skye, Fort William, Loch Ness and Mallaig. You may have the chance to ride the Jacobite Steam Train to Mallaig (subject to availability). You'll have some time at each stop to explore on your own in addition to group activities like a tour of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and castle, a Loch Ness cruise, a wildlife cruise in Mallaig and more. Tourgoers appreciate the enthusiastic guides and the company's help in creating the perfect getaway.

Daily breakfasts, hotel accommodations, transportation, a customer support line and select activities are included in the tour price. You'll pay for lunches, dinners and snacks out of your own pocket. Firebird also runs Scotland tours that combine visits to Ireland or England.

Grand European Travel – Country Roads of Scotland

Price: From $4,125 Duration: 9 days

Throughout this coach journey, you'll have plenty of opportunities to soak in local culture, from afternoon teas to evenings of Gaelic stories and music to ecology and preservation walks. Many of these activities are included in the trip fee as well as select meals, tours, cruises, museum visits and much more. The trip begins in Edinburgh and travels through the Scottish countryside and island before concluding in Glasgow. Travelers say the trips are excellent, but that communication during the booking process can be somewhat lacking.

Six dinners, eight breakfasts and three- or four-star hotel accommodations are included. Select activities (such as the Gaelic storytelling evening) are an extra fee. You'll be responsible for your lunches, snacks and some dinners. Grand European Travel offers several other journeys through Scotland.

Luxury Scotland Tours – The Luxury Scotland Family Tour

Price: Varies Duration: 10 days

Take the family on a trip to remember to see Hagrid's Hut (of "Harry Potter"), the Hogwarts Express bridge (the Glenfinnan Viaduct), Byres Farm to feed livestock, dinosaur footprints in Staffin, Scottish Highlands cows in the countryside and much more. Of course, you and the kids will get plenty of history along the way with visits to castles, museums and historic sites. According to reviews, the company plans the trip perfectly and many recent tourgoers compliment the guides.

Included in the tour fee are accommodations in four- and five-star properties, breakfasts, private chauffeurs, activities (and admission) and guides. Each tour can be customized to your family's preferences. You must contact the company for prices and to book.

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Kensington Tours – Castles of Scotland Signature

Price: From $12,770 per person Duration: 10 days

Travelers say the travel agents at Kensington Tours are top notch and take great care in planning an itinerary. And for those with an interest in Scotland's castles, it's hard to beat this tour. You'll visit Edinburgh, Blair, Cawdor, Inveraray and Crossbasket castles, with a sprinkling of other tours and activities in between. What's more, you'll be staying at Crossbasket Castle for two nights. The rest of the stay will be at four- and five-star properties.

While accommodations, tours, transportation and guides are all included, lunches, dinners and drinks are not (unless otherwise specified).

Rabbie's – Island Hopping Adventure

Price: From 1,577 pounds (about $2,017) Duration: 14 days

Scotland has hundreds of islands and this tour from Rabbie's will help you explore several of them. You'll visit the Isle of Mull, Isle of Skye, Iona, Staffa, the Orkney archipelago and Harris and Lewis. Other sites visited include Skara Brae (a prehistoric site), Loch Ness, Glencoe and a journey along the North Coast 500 to see stunning scenery. Visitors heap praise on Rabbie's because of the company's attentive guides, trip planning and gorgeous sights.

Your tour will have no more than 16 people. The tour includes your guide and all ferry tickets, except the ferry to Staffa, as that trip is optional. You will be responsible for attraction entry tickets, meals and accommodations. You can book accommodations yourself or have a Rabbie's representative book for you. Accommodations typically cost 55 to 150 pounds (about $70 to $190) per night, per person when there are at least two people in a room.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ideally, you'd want to take at least a week to see Scotland if it's your first time visiting so that you can experience its cities, culture and nature. However, if you are short on time, consider what's most important to you when you travel – such as exploring outside, local cuisine or history – and tailor a trip around that.

The best time to visit Scotland is in late spring, summer or early fall. While you could be contending with crowds and more rainy days, you'll be rewarded with wonderful temperatures. Plus, you'll have more opportunities to engage in activities, like riding the Jacobite Steam Train. Winter brings a biting cold, but could get you a deal on accommodations and discounted tour rates.

For most tours, tips are not included. Most companies do not require tipping, but drivers and guides will happily accept them. If you're not sure how much to tip, it's best to contact your chosen tour company for guidance.

What you include in your luggage will vary based on your tour itinerary, activities and weather. Additionally, your company might impose luggage restrictions, so check the policies before you leave.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Europe
• How to Renew a Passport
• The Best International Insurance Companies

Tags: Tours , Scotland , Travel , Vacations , United Kingdom , Europe , Europe Vacations , United Kingdom Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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5 of the best road trips in Scotland

Mar 6, 2024 • 7 min read

Be inspired by these stunning road trip routes in Scotland © iaminut / Shutterstock

The cities of  Scotland  may be full to the brim with history and atmosphere, but it's the countryside in between that captures most visitors' hearts.

Quintessentially Scottish landscapes of lochs, glens and mountains begin right on the limits of Edinburgh, Glasgow and other major cities, setting the scene for road trips to rival James Bond's flight across the Highlands in Skyfall (2012).

Scottish roads are generally well-maintained, and driving is a great way to get off the beaten track and escape the crowds who mob the most famous sights. En route, you can stop off in charming country pubs, drop into ruined castles and ancient kirks (churches), wander on windswept beaches and find solace in silent glens far from the maddening crowds. 

These five road trip itineraries take in the epic grandeur of Skye, culture-packed Edinburgh and the whisky distilleries of Speyside, amongst other classic Scottish experiences. Along the way, you'll pass rolling farmland, heather-burnished hillsides, ruined castles and eerie lochs, as the stories of Scotland unfold right in front of you.

1. An Isle of Skye driving loop

Best for making family memories Fort William–Fort William; 310 miles (498km); allow 4 days

So long as you’re not after guaranteed sunshine, Skye has it all. This atmospheric island off the west coast is a riot of craggy peaks, towering sea stacks and waterlogged shorelines, famed for its Gaelic culture and vibrant food scene. This round-trip route from Fort William allows you to take the bridge to the island in one direction (passing grand Eilean Donan Castle en route), returning to the mainland via the ferry to Mallaig.

Once you’re on the island, a classic counterclockwise loop starts with a visit to Skye’s largest town, Portree , with its pretty harbor, before roaming over the volcanic cliffs of the Trotternish Peninsula . Next, the Duirinish Peninsula offers wild hiking country and some excellent restaurants, while the jagged ridges of the Cuillin Hills are a destination in themselves for hikers and photographers.

In between, there are castles , almost Caribbean-looking beaches and some of Britain’s best wild swimming spots, plus side trips by ferry to the surrounding Small Isles, which offer great bird-watching, particularly in spring and autumn.

2. North Coast 500

Best for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure Inverness Castle–Inverness Castle; 516 miles (830km); allow 7 days

Scotland’s wild northern coastline is the star of the country’s most famous driving route. The North Coast 500 begins and ends in Inverness , the likable capital of the Highlands , making a giant loop around the north end of Scotland along the deeply indented coast.

If you follow the route counterclockwise (saving the best scenery till last), you’ll head past the moors and sandy beaches of the east coast before hitting John O’Groats and nearby Dunnet Head – mainland Britain’s northernmost point. The north coast has a windswept beauty that gets increasingly rugged as you continue west past bogs, cliffs and crofting villages. The views as you head down the loch-strewn west coast are perhaps Britain’s finest, with sweeping vistas of mountains and islands.

Taking the route at a more leisurely pace will give you the chance to seek out fine local foodstuffs such as venison, smoked fish and craft beer, while activities such as sea kayaking on the west coast or scrambling up the lonely peaks of Assynt are a great way to throw yourself into Northern Scotland’s epic landscapes.

Planning tip:  When planning a road trip in Scotland, be aware that many places to stay on popular routes, such as the North Coast 500, will only accept bookings for two or more nights in the summer peak season. Book accommodations well ahead of time.

3. North East 250

Best for whisky distillery touring Spittal of Glenshee–Spittal of Glenshee; 257 miles (414km); allow 4 days

Northeast Scotland is famous for its whisky distilleries, Braemar (the home of the Highland Games ) and Balmoral Castle (the Scottish home of the British Royal Family) – so yes, it's as Scottish as it gets. The North East 250, a route inspired by the success of the North Coast 500, takes in these big-ticket attractions, but also shines a light on an often-overlooked region of photogenic glens, farmland and wave-lashed shorelines.

The village of Spittal of Glenshee (a popular base for skiing in winter) is a good starting point and easily accessible from Edinburgh and Dundee. Taking the route clockwise, you’ll head through the Cairngorms National Park , the biggest national park in Britain, which includes some of the UK’s highest peaks and offers phenomenal hiking opportunities.

The North East 250 then cuts through Speyside before hitting the Moray Firth coastline and the oil-rich city of Aberdeen . It’s a route lined with castles, beaches, small villages and historic estates; stop along the way to sample local delicacies such as Cullen skink (a thick, warming fish soup) and sweet, peaty whiskies.

Local tip:  Do your research when choosing which whisky distilleries to tour – if you try to hit them all, you’ll be here for months.  Balvenie in Dufftown is a good choice: its small-group tours visit one of Scotland’s last remaining malting floors.

4. Borders Historic Route

Best for a short route through moorlands Carlisle–Edinburgh; 97 miles (156km); allow one day

There are more famous road trips than this easy itinerary that follows the A7 north from the English border past Hawick and Galashiels to Edinburgh , but there is plenty to engage body and spirit along the way. This rolling landscape of villages and farmlands was once a battlefield for cross-border raids, and it finishes at Edinburgh’s hulking castle .

The area’s industrial history is showcased by educational centers celebrating tweed, tartan and glasswork, as well as an interesting mining museum . The landscape provides opportunities for varied activities – anglers can cast flies in the hope of snagging salmon along the Tweed’s wooded banks, while mountain bikers can hit the trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.

Ruined abbeys and author Walter Scott’s fabulous country house, Abbotsford , are more cerebral highlights, although the undulating moorlands of the Scottish Borders are arguably the star of the show.

5. Clyde Sea Lochs and the Argyll Coast

Best for mountains and lochs Glasgow–Fort William; 240 miles (386km); allow 3 days

Visitors to Scotland are often surprised by how close the country’s most populous city is to the rugged terrain of the Highlands. Glasgow’s high culture and lively pubs are worth an overnight on any trip to the region, but don’t stay up too late – you'll want to be clear of the suburbs by mid-morning to see the hills turn to mountains and lochs eat into an increasingly rugged coastline.

This route (combining two official tourist trails ) winds north and west, taking in the popular walking country of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. En route, you can enjoy majestic views, excellent seafood, ancient standing stones, historic towns, kayaking on the lochs and whale-watching offshore.

But the biggest hitters come at the end: Glen Coe has aching natural beauty and a tragic backstory of Highland betrayal, while Fort William is the striking point for ascents of 4413ft (1345m) Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest peak – a challenging climb of seven to eight hours from the visitors center.

Tips for driving in Scotland

Note that while some of the road trips follow major "M" or "A" roads, others rely on smaller roads for long stretches. These are often tight and hedge-lined, with few places to overtake, and they can be blocked by snow in winter (read our tips for getting around in Scotland ). The police in Scotland take speeding and drunk driving seriously, so stay below the limits. Petrol stations can be widely spaced in the Highlands and on the islands – fill up when you get the chance.

Be ready to take your time, pausing for a day or two to explore the local area at each overnight stop. Our route durations assume you'll be taking diversions to see more of the region and making regular stopovers, so the distances provided are not direct between the start and end points.

This article was first published Jun 9, 2021 and updated Mar 6, 2024.

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Scotland Tours & Vacations

Misty highlands, sparkling lochs and rolling hills – there is a reason Scotland is known for its natural beauty. 

But it’s not all just deserted moors and moss-covered forests (although there are plenty of those too!), Scotland’s rich history and culture are also a big drawcard. From exploring the medieval city of Edinburgh , to the lively fun of a traditional pub where many a wee whisky can be enjoyed, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the hospitality of the local Scots beyond the clichés of kilts and bagpipes. Discovering areas like the enchanting Scottish Highlands , the modern hub of Glasgow and the wilderness of the Isle of Skye, all with the inside knowledge of a local leader is an entirely unique experience.

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Learn more about Scotland

Local culture.

Some might know the Scots, as they are fondly referred to, for their tartan kilts, bagpipe playing, whisky or delicious shortbread, but there is a lot more to this British nation than these clichés.  

The people of Scotland are a mixture of Scottish,  British  and several minority immigrant groups. Many of Scotland’s traditions have roots in Celtic heritage. A large portion of the population are Christian, with some Catholics and others who make up the Kirk, the Presbyterian Church of Scotland. The Scottish are famous for their polite and friendly nature, stoic attitude and good sense of humor.

Soccer or football as it is known locally is a very popular sport, with rugby also being widely watched. For literature fans, the Harry Potter book series is deeply connected with the city of Edinburgh, as it was here that author JK Rowling lived when she wrote most of the books. You can visit the cafes where she wrote as well as see many of the places that inspired parts of her stories, including cemeteries and other buildings.

Geography and environment

Scotland is the most northern part of Great Britain and borders England. The low mountains of the highlands make up 60 per cent of Scotland’s land. Scotland’s flora is similar to most of northern Europe with forests, rugged coasts and moors. There are 62 different species of wild mammals in Scotland, common ones include: grouse, wild cats and off the coast there are many seabirds, seals and dolphins.

The climate of Scotland is classified as temperate, which means it has distinct seasonal changes and wider ranges of temperatures throughout the year. In winter, average temperatures are between five and seven degrees Celsius (41 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit) and in summer between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). The western highlands experience a lot of rain throughout the year, but other areas of Scotland receive much less rain.

If you’re looking to buy authentic Scottish wares, there are options aplenty in the capital city of Edinburgh and other large cities like Glasgow.

If you are after something special, some Edinburgh Crystal, which is owned by Waterford Wedgewood makes an excellent luxury souvenir. Deck yourself out with a set of new drinking glasses, bowls or for something really different – a crystal bell.

If you’re after a gift or souvenir that is a little more edible, you can’t go past a bottle of authentic Scottish whisky. Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a popular choice and whether you’re a connoisseur or a total whisky novice, the local proprietors will love talking you through the different tipples – they are a passionate lot.

If you have family heritage in Scotland, it can be a fun exercise to hunt down your clan tartan. But even if you don’t have one, a woollen scarf, hat or if you’re feeling brave, a kilt, is a distinctly Scottish piece of attire to add to your wardrobe.

Festivals and events

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is on during August each year and is a massive global arts and cultural event. It takes places in over 300 venues around Edinburgh and includes a range of performances and experiences across theatre, comedy, dance, physical theatre, circus, cabaret, children's shows, musicals, opera, music, spoken word, exhibitions and events.

Hogmanay Street Party

Hogmanay is a traditional Scottish celebration that takes place over New Year’s. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party is a three-day festival that runs at various locations across the city. With multiple stages with entertainment set up, a torchlight procession and plenty of opportunities for a ‘wee dram’, tickets for this festival are highly sought after and can sell out months in advance.

Highland Games

The Highland Games are held in spring and summer and are one of Scotland’s most iconic events. There are many traditional athletic events like tug-of-war and caber toss, where competitors dress in traditional kilts and spectators enjoy all the social and cultural festivities that come with it, including traditional food, drinks and music.

The Glasgow Whisky Festival

If you’re heading to Glasgow as well as Edinburgh (and you should!) the Whisky Festival is a great time to go. A showcase of Scottish and specifically Glaswegian distillers is the focus, but there is also a celebration of international whisky too, with attendees from all over the world. It is Scotland’s national drink after all…

Scottish food

The Scottish food scene is garnering international attention thanks to Scotland's elite chefs like Gordon Ramsay (Scottish born, even if he did spend his schoolyears in England), Nick Nairn and Andrew Fairlie. These culinary wizards are taking the country's incredible natural produce – beef, venison and seafood – and bringing us a whole new era of more refined Scottish cuisine. However, if you’re looking for some traditional Scottish fare, here are some dishes you must try.

It might not sound very appealing but if you’re a meat eater, you might surprise yourself by enjoying haggis too. Haggis is made of sheep or calf offal, mixed with oatmeal and seasoning before being boiled in a bag (although traditionally it was boiled in the lining of an animal’s stomach). The overall effect is not dissimilar to a sausage with a grainier texture and is often served alongside a traditional roast dinner.

Scottish porridge

A traditional breakfast food, Scottish porridge differs slightly from the standard oatmeal you might be used to eating at home. It has been a population dish for centuries and traditionally should be eaten out of a wooden bowl, with everyone dipping their oats into a communal bowl of cream (for some reason you should also eat it standing up). The preparation is also quite unique – traditionally it should be stirred with a wooden rod called a spirtle and only ever stirred clockwise with your right hand, unless you want to incur the wrath of the devil. While you might put sugar on your porridge at home, in Scotland it’s served with a generous pinch of salt!

A traditional Scottish shortbread is a simple biscuit cake with only three ingredients. Butter, sugar and flour. Cover it in sugar and cut the cake into wedges while it’s still hot and it will cool into delicious, crumbly triangle-shaped biscuits. It’s all in the texture…

Scotch pies

A scotch pie is a meat pie, traditionally filled with mutton or other mincemeat. It is double crusted, single portion pie that is often enjoyed at soccer (football) games, which has earned it the nickname of ‘football pie’. The lid of the pie is slightly sunken from the crust, to allow space for condiments to be put on top.

Further reading

• Tam O’Shanter by Robert Burns

Doctor Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Stevenson

The Complete Works of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

A Drunk Man Looks at the Thistle by Hugh McDiarmid

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie by Dame Muriel Spark

Not While the Giro by James Kelman

Wire in the Blood by Val McDermid and Ian Rankin

Scotland travel FAQs

Do i need a visa to travel to scotland.

Visa regulations are always subject to change, which is especially likely after Britain's exit from the European Union (EU), so it's essential to check before leaving home.

Citizens of EU countries, Australia, Canada and the United States have visa-free access to Scotland.

Is tipping customary in Scotland?

Tipping is customary in some situations in Scotland.

Restaurant bills usually include an option to add a gratuity. If this option isn’t present, it’s still common to tip about 10 per cent of the bill.

Tipping about 10 per cent is also standard in taxis. 

What is the internet access like in Scotland?

You will have reliable internet access while in Scotland’s major cities and towns. 

Can I use my cell phone while in Scotland?

You will have cell coverage across most of Scotland, except for some rural and remote areas.

R emember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your cell phone while traveling. 

What are the toilets like in Scotland?

Scotland has Western-style toilets.

What will it cost for a…?

• Cup of coffee = £2.5
• Pint of beer = £4
• Glass of wine = £4 - £5
• Pub lunch = £12 
• Dinner at a mid-range restaurant = £30

Can I drink the water in Scotland?

Drinking tap water is safe in Scotland unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, we recommend avoiding buying bottled water and bring a refillable bottle or canteen with you. 

Are credit cards widely accepted in Scotland?

You will be able to use your credit card readily in Scotland, however it never hurts to carry a small amount of cash on you to make things simpler if you are splitting bills or just want a quick cup of coffee.

What is ATM access like in Scotland?

ATMs are referred to as cashpoints in Scotland and are commonly found.

You can use Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Cirrus, Plus and Maestro at most Scottish ATMs but you will also find international bank ATMs in major cities like Edinburgh and Scotland.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Is Scotland a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Scotland is an open country and legalized same-sex marriage in 2014. Edinburgh and Glasgow in particular have small but flourishing gay communities. 

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex   or  Smartraveller  before you travel.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

The Ultimate 10-Day Scotland Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

Last Updated on December 4, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

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Mapping out the ideal route for a Scotland trip can be a bit overwhelming at first glance, especially if you only have 10 days in Scotland to play around with.

A destination that draws countless tourists each year. Scotland’s beautiful landscapes, fascinating history, and incredibly friendly people attract people from all around the globe to explore this beautiful country.

Despite its relatively small land area and sparse population, there are a myriad of places to visit in this gorgeous country. Because of this, it’s impossible to fit everything that you may want to see within the span of 10 days.

However, there are countless incredible areas to visit depending on the route you choose. Below, we’ve outlined three different options that can suit whatever kind of trip you’re looking for!

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Scotland

Known to be wet, grey, and chilly, Scotland isn’t famous for its nice weather, however, there are still some months that are better to visit than others.

It will come as no surprise that the best time to visit Scotland — that is if you want the best weather — is in the summer months of July and August. However, because the weather is at its warmest and the days are at their longest, these are also the most popular months for tourists, as well.

Especially during the month of August in Edinburgh (due to the famed Fringe Festival), expect there to be a LOT of tourist crowds in more popular areas – and expect prices to increase respectively.

However, there is a lot of Scotland that remains off of the typical tourist trail and these places are very much worth visiting. So, if you plan to visit in the summer, it is probably in your best interest to get a bit off the beaten path.

While July and August are the warmest months of the year, don’t expect very high temperatures. Further south, highs will be around 20°C (68°F) and, in the highlands and islands, expect highs to be closer to about 16-18° (60-64°F).

Spring and autumn can be attractive times to visit Scotland, as well, as the temperatures aren’t too low and the tourist crowds are unlikely to have arrived in hordes yet.

Late spring and early autumn are going to be the warmest months and the closer you get to winter on either end is going to be colder. Make sure that you bring a good waterproof jacket whatever the season, but especially in the chillier months.

Winters are cold and dark, the days can be short because of Scotland’s northern location and you may find some accommodation options and restaurants in more tourist-reliant towns and villages to be closed for the offseason.

This is, however, the most affordable time of year to visit. If you plan to head to Scotland in the months of December, you can also expect to have your pick of charming Christmas markets to explore and lots of decorations to look at, most notably in Edinburgh.

No matter when you plan your road trip in Scotland, you can also expect there to be a lot of rain. Along with good outerwear, you will also not regret finding a good pair of waterproof shoes for your Scotland trip.

Getting Around Scotland

Unless you’re taking an organised tour through Scotland, you are going to need to figure out how to get around the country independently and by far the easiest way to do this is by your own car.

Public transport does exist in Scotland and it can be a good option for those who are only interested in visiting major cities and towns, however, if you want to venture into the countryside or visit some far-flung areas, having your own vehicle is going to be necessary.

They drive on the left-hand side of the road in Scotland and the road conditions on the major motorways are good, however, they do tend to decline the more rural you go.

Some roads in the far north or on the islands, for instance, only have room for one car to get through and include small passing places for oncoming traffic every hundred metres or so.

This can seem overwhelming at first, however, these rural country roads aren’t ever too congested with traffic and people do tend to be apologetic to confused or stressed-out tourists. If you need to rent a car in Scotland, you can browse options here.

It can also be a good option to take out a third-party policy with iCarHireInsurance to be affordably covered for any excess. Don’t forget to buy a prepaid SIM card for the UK to ensure you can access your GPS at all times!

Finally, have you considered taking out travel insurance for your Scotland trip?  World Nomads   offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.

10-Day Scotland Highlights Itinerary

One of the most classic Scotland itineraries, this route begins in the capital city of Edinburgh and ends in the “Gateway to the Highlands,” Inverness.

Day 1 – Edinburgh

Begin your trip to Scotland in the incredible capital city of Edinburgh, an absolutely lovely and historic city that is sure to instantly charm you. Though small, there are countless things to do in the Scottish capital that will ensure that you’re never bored while spending a couple of days in Edinburgh .

Take the time to explore Edinburgh’s main sites, stroll down the Royal Mile, enjoy the convivial atmosphere in a local pub and search for familiar names of Harry Potter characters in Greyfriars Cemetery.

On your first day in the city, it’s a great idea to head to the iconic Edinburgh Castle ( book a skip-the-line tour here ) that towers over the city or, if you want to put some context to the sites you’re seeing, consider taking a walking tour of the city centre.

Edinburgh is an incredibly beautiful city that is compact enough to explore entirely on foot but filled with interesting things that you’re sure never to be bored.

Where to Say in Edinburgh

Cityroomz Edinburgh – A centrally-located hotel situated within easy walking distance of all Edinburgh has to offer, they have several clean and comfortable rooms available and there is even an option to include breakfast.

Castle Rock Hostel   – A great, small hostel centrally located near all of Edinburgh’s top sites, this is a fantastic choice for budget or solo travellers. They have several dorm and private rooms available and good common areas for meeting other travellers.  

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Edinburgh!

Day 2 – Edinburgh

Plan to spend 2 full days in Edinburgh as the city has a lot to offer beyond the main sites you visited on the first day. For instance, begin your second day with an exhilarating hike up Arthur’s Seat. This hill in Holyrood Park is a bit of a trek to the top, but it provides excellent views of the city spanned out below.

You can also take the time to visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Scottish Parliament. Take the time to wander through Edinburgh’s cosmopolitan New Town or maybe pop into one of the city’s many museums.

The Writer’s Museum is a great option, as is the National Museum of Scotland – what’s great is that most museums are free to enter!

End your day taking in some live music or, perhaps, a comedy show. There is a lot on offer in Edinburgh and it can be a great opportunity to experience the arts and culture of this city – even if you’re not visiting during the Fringe!

Day 3 – Edinburgh to Loch Lomond

From Edinburgh, it’s time to leave the big city (though Edinburgh does retain a lovely, pastoral charm) and head out into some of the incredible nature that Scotland is famed for. And one of the best places to do this is by paying a visit to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

While en route, however, consider making a pit stop in the city of Stirling to take in the gorgeous Stirling Castle. This is one of the most popular day trips from Edinburgh and it makes a lot of sense to include it while heading west.

Along with the castle, you can also see the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge where, in the 13th Century, William Wallace defeated the English (as depicted in Braveheart ). There is also a monument to William Wallace in the town.

There is a lot of history to experience in Stirling and it’s worth spending the better part of a day exploring the town. It’s located about an hour outside of Edinburgh and it’s roughly a further 1.5 hours to Loch Lomond – depending on where along the lake you choose to make as your base.

Where to Stay in Loch Lomond

Global B&B – Located in the village of Luss, this bed and breakfast has several clean and comfortable rooms available and a great breakfast cooked fresh each morning.

The Loch Lomond Arms Hotel – A wonderful hotel located on the banks of Loch Lomond, this is a great option for those looking for a bit of luxury on your trip to Scotland. They have a number of great rooms available, and a great restaurant and bar on site.

Private Rental – Having a private place to stay is a great way to enjoy the serenity of Loch Lomond. There are a number of great options such as this delightful barn cottage.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Loch Lomond!

Day 4 – Loch Lomond & the Trossachs

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is one of Scotland’s most beautiful natural areas and it’s worth taking the time to enjoy the gorgeous scenery that lies within it.

The shores of Loch Lomond (Scotland’s largest loch) are absolutely gorgeous and the ample hiking opportunities are sure to keep you busy. There are also countless charming villages worth paying a visit to.

Spend your full day in the area by taking a boat cruise on the Loch – here you can get a beautiful panoramic view of the lake and of the surrounding Munros – including Ben Lomond. Of course, it’s also essential to visit the charming town of Luss that lies on the shores of the lake – there are plenty of charming stone cottages to take in.

You also could simply spend your day walking – there are several well-marked walking routes to take advantage of. You could do a bit of the Three Lochs Way or simply stroll from Tarbet to Arrochar – the world is really your oyster!

Day 5 – Oban

From Loch Lomond, it’s time to head further west until you meet the sea – with your final destination being the seafood capital of Scotland – Oban!

Oban is located about 1.5 hours from Loch Lomond (depending on where you’re staying) and, if you’d like, you could consider stopping the the charming town of Inverary along the way.

Once in Oban itself, there are a number of things to do. Though the town is known primarily for being a jumping-off point to the inner Hebridean islands (more on that later!), it’s worth exploring the town itself.

There’s a lovely little high street where you can browse some shops, a delightful waterfront and harbour to stroll along and, of course, the Oban Distillery is in the centre of town. You can pop into the visitor’s centre for a tasting or you can opt to go on a tour of the distillery if that suits.

It’s also worth walking up to McCaig’s Tower, a colosseum-like structure that looms over the town and provides excellent views of Oban and the surrounding islands.

Where to Stay in Oban

Adelphi Villa – This cosy guesthouse is a great option for mid-range visitors in Oban. They have a great location on a quiet, central street, free on-site parking, friendly owners and comfortable rooms.

The Manor House Hotel – A great luxury option in the town of Oban, this hotel is set in an old manor house. There are plenty of opulent rooms on offer along with countless plush amenities for guests.

Oban Backpackers – This backpacker’s hostel is perfect for budget travellers. They have a great location in the centre of Oban, good self-catering facilities and plenty of room types to choose from.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Oban hotels!

Day 6 – Isles of Mull & Iona

On you’re sixth day, it’s time to leave the Scottish mainland and go for a day trip to some of the country’s loveliest Hebridean islands – Mull and Iona! Though you could spend a number of days on Mull taking in all it has to offer, it is accessible as a day trip from Oban – provided you get an early start!

Car ferries from Oban to the town of Craignure on Mull take about 1 hour – make sure to get there at least half an hour in advance to sailing, though! Once you arrive on Mull, hit the road (they’re pretty small and narrow here!) and head south.

You’ll pass some of the island’s most incredible scenery by following this route along the Rodd of Mull before you reach the town of Fionnphort. Here, hop on another (passenger) ferry to the Isle of Iona. Tourists cannot bring a car to Iona so you must rely on your own two feet (or a bicycle) to get around.

Iona is absolutely charming, but it’s most notable for the Iona Abbey – which dates back to the 6th Century CE and is said to be the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland.

After exploring Iona, head back to Mull to take in more of this incredible island. There are plenty of natural sites to take in (the views along Loch Na Keal may be some of the most stunning in Scotland) as you drive up the west coast en route to Tobermory – the largest town on the island.

Of course, make sure to take the time to explore Tobermory (it’s home to its own whisky and gin distillery!) before hopping on the ferry back to Oban.

Day 7 – Glencoe & Fort William

From Oban, head a bit north to some of the most iconic places in the Scottish Highlands, the gorgeous and historic Glencoe and the lovely town of Fort William.

Like the destinations before this, Fort William and Glencoe boast some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Scotland and it is an area that is best seen by hitting the trails and doing some walking.

Glencoe lies about an hour’s drive north of Oban and a spectacular drive it is – it winds all along the west coast and you can even take in view of the old Castel Stalker while on your way. Do try to get an early start as Glencoe can get incredibly busyand the carparks at viewpoints and trailheads fill up quickly.

Make sure to stop at the Glencoe Viewpoint and at the Meeting of Three Waters. There are views just off the road here, but you can also embark on some longer hikes if that’s what you’d like to do.

In Glencoe Village, you can also learn about the infamous 17th Century Massacre of Glencoe and also stop for a bite to eat. You also could opt to walk a bit along lovely Loch Lochan for more views.

You can end your day in the nearby city of Fort William, which sits in the foothills of Ben Nevis – Scotland’s highest peak. Otherwise, there are also a handful of places to stay near Glencoe if you fancy something a bit more rural.

Where to Stay in Fort William & Glencoe

Gowan Brae Bed & Breakfast – A cosy bed and breakfast located in the centre of Fort William, this place makes for a perfect base for exploring the region. They have a number of great rooms available and a wonderful breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Loch Leven Hotel & Distillery – A lovely family-run hotel on the banks of Loch Levan, this place makes for the perfect place to stay in Glencoe. They have a number of great rooms available, a restaurant on site, and a bar serving locally distilled spirits including whisky and gin.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Fort William or Glencoe!

Day 8 – Fort William to Inverness

Day 8 of your Scotland road trip is a bit of a driving day – though it is less than 2 hours to your final destination (Inverness) so you can spend the morning exploring a bit of Fort William if you’d like.

Here, you can head to the West Highland Museum to learn about the history of the area or even take a detour to the Genfinnian Viaduct – known for being a shooting location for the Harry Potter movies.

Take the longer route from Fort William to Inverness and drive through Cairngorms National Park rather than along Loch Ness – you will be spending the whole next day there, so don’t fret about not getting views of Scotland’s most iconic lake!

Cairngorms is a gorgeous natural area and it’s also home to the Speyside whisky region, so there are plenty of different distilleries to top at if you’re interested. Just keep note that Scotland has a zero-tolerance drink driving limit so all samples and tastings should be reserved for those who are only passengers in the car.

End your day in the city of Inverness – which will be your final destination for this 10-day Scotland itinerary.

Where to Stay in Inverness

Torridon Guest House — This quaint guesthouse is one of the best places to stay in Inverness if your budget allows for a little bit more than a hostel. It is located within a short walking distance of the city centre, has great ratings, comfortable rooms, breakfast included, and free parking. 

Black Isle Hostel – This hostel is in a great location and is one of the best-rated options in the city. Aside from having multiple dorms of different sizes, they also have private rooms and a bar serving local craft beers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Inverness!

Day 9 – Loch Ness

Inverness dons the nickname “The Gateway to the Highlands” for a reason – many of the Scottish Highland’s most iconic places to visit are within easy reach of this small city. And the most famous of which is Loch Ness .

Located only about 20 minutes from the centre of Inverness, you can easily get an early start and beat the crowds to this majestic and mysterious lake. Though you’re unlikely to glimpse Nessie in the depths of the loch, it’s still worth taking a cruise on the waters.

Of course, you should visit the ruined remains of Urquhart Castle and take in the gorgeous Falls of Foyers. The latter is located just a stone’s throw from the shore of the loch.

End your time in Loch Ness in the southernmost town on the lake, Fort Augustus. Here, there are lots of shops and amenities along with ample tranquil walks along the Caledonian Canal.

Day 10 – Inverness

Spend your final day in Scotland exploring the city of Inverness itself. Though small in size, this city packs a considerable amount of charm and is well worth spending the time to visit some of the sites here.

It is easy to get around the city on foot and take in the laid-back atmosphere. Stop by the Inverness Castle museum, enjoy some peace and quiet on the Ness Islands, and kick back with a pint at one of the many convivial pubs.

Inverness also has a great restaurant and craft beer scene, so there is something for everyone’s taste in this compact Scottish city.

If you’d like to head out on another day trip, then consider visiting the nearby Culloden Battlefield. This is a heartbreaking but excellent open-air museum where you can learn all about the Jacobite uprising in the 18th Century. Outlander fans will love it, but it’s just as interesting for those who’ve never read/seen the series.

Have More Time?

If you have more than ten days to devote to this Scotland itinerary, there are a number of different options you can make to extend your time.

If you would like to experience another big, Scottish city other than Edinburgh, you also to head over to Glasgow before venturing onto Loch Lomond. Though it has a gritty reputation, there are lots of things to do in Glasgow and it is very much worth visiting.

You could also opt to extend your time on the Isle of Mull – there is enough to do for several days. Especially if you’re visiting in the summer months, it can be worth taking a wildlife tour to the incredible isles of Staffa and Lunga – the latter is known for its massive puffin colony where you can view hundreds of these sea birds up close.

Alternatively, after visiting Glencoe, you could head north to the Isle of Skye and spend a few days there before driving all the way back to Inverness. As you can see, the possibilities are really endless.

10-Day Scottish Highlands & Islands Itinerary

If you’re more interested in exploring the highlights of Scotland’s incredible highlands and islands during your 10 days here, then this is the itinerary for you to follow!

Day 1 – Inverness

Start your Scotland road trip in the “Gateway to the Highlands,” Inverness. Well-poised to explore a lot of what this region has to offer, spend one day exploring the city itself and another two going on a number of day trips that are available.

Day 2 – Loch Ness

Spend your second day with Inverness as your base as an opportunity to visit the inimitable Loch Ness. Located only about 20 minutes from Inverness, we recommend getting an early start this day to avoid the inevitable large crowds that will descend upon the lake by midday.

Day 3 – Culloden Battlefield & Cawdor Castle

Still using Inverness as your base, spend your third day on a day trip to the Culloden Battlefield and to nearby Cawdor Castle.

The latter is one of Scotland’s lesser-known castles, but it’s within easy reach of Inverness and visitors can easily spend a few hours touring the castle and its extensive grounds. Still home to the Dowager Countess of Cawdor, this castle has been in the Campbell family since the 16th Century.

Day 4 – Cairngorms National Park

From Inverness, it’s time to head a bit south to the Cairngorms National Park. This sub-arctic plateau offers ample outdoor activities to delight even the most adrenaline-seeking of travellers. There are numerous hiking routes that range in difficulty, and also opportunities to go horseback riding, kayaking, and any other number of outdoor activities. 

The Cairngorms are really great for those who want to spend time hiking outside and taking in the wilderness. However, there are also a few charming little towns to visit and plenty of fun sites that aren’t necessarily all about being active outside.

Those who came to Scotland to see impressive royal castles, for instance, will swoon over the grand Balmoral Castle located in Cairngorms. And if you’re travelling with children, make sure to visit the Highland Wildlife Park. There are lots of things to do that’s it’s very much worth taking a day to explore this area, even if you don’t want to summit a Munro!

Plan to spend 2 nights in the area. If you want to get the most out of all of the beautiful nature in the Cairngorms, then camping is a great option. There are a number of lovely campsites scattered around the national park such as The Lazy Duck .

If you don’t plan on camping, I would suggest staying in the town of Aviemore, which has the most amenities and accommodation options for tourists.

Where to Stay in the Cairngorms

The Cairngorm Hotel – If you’re looking for a nice and romantic place to stay on Aviemore’s main street, then the Cairngorm Hotel is for you. This hotel has a range of rooms, great ratings, and has breakfast included in the rate.

Aviemore Youth Hostel – If you are on a budget and would prefer to stay closer to civilization, then Aviemore Youth Hostel is the place for you. They offer affordable dorm beds and come very highly rated.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in the Cairngorms!

Day 5 – Speyside Whisky Region

The Cairngorms also happens to be situated in the Speyside region – the largest Scotch whisky-producing region in the country.

There are over fifty distilleries that you could tour and learn a little more about how Scotch is made and how to taste it. If you’re interested, you could opt to drive some of the malt Whisky Trail, a heritage trail that takes you by some of the region’s most notable distilleries. Keep in mind that this is best with a hired driver or a designated sober driver!

Otherwise, the village of Dufftown is home to six working distilleries all of its own – this can be a great place to walk between different places and sample some single malts!

Some of the distilleries in this region include Macallan, Glenfiddich, Arberlour, Glen Moray, Glenlivit and countless more.

Whisky tasting is also possible as a day trip from Inverness and there are plenty of tours that also include parts of the Cairngorms that you can do if you want to avoid driving after all of that whisky!

Day 6 – Isle of Skye

From Cairngorms, it’s time to head to one of Scotland’s most well-known (and gorgeous!) islands — the Isle of Skye ! Known for its dramatic scenery and bucolic charm, Skye is really an essential stop on this Highlands route.

The drive from Cairngorms National Park will take around 3 hours, so make sure to et an early start to ensure that you don’t miss a thing. En route to Skye, you also can make a stop at the beautiful Eilean Donan Castle which is situated just before you reach the bridge to the island.

On your first day, visit some of the sites that make up the Trotternish Loop, beginning with the Old Man of Storr. Continue onto Lealt Falls, Mealt Falls and Kilt Rock and, of course, drive the iconic Quirang for absolutely stunning views.

End your day in Portree, the main town on the island. There are lots of shops to browse and pubs to relax in here.

Where to Stay on Skye

An-Airidh Bed & Breakfast Portree  – Located just south of central Portree on the eponymous loch, this cosy B&B is a great base on the island. There are several comfortable rooms and a great breakfast each morning.

Skyewalker Hostel – A great, family-run hostel perfect for budget and solo travellers. They have a range of both dorm and private rooms, good facilities and occasionally organise social events in the evening.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Skye!

Day 7 – Isle of Skye

On your second day on Skye, take even more time to explore the island. On this day, you can head to the lovely Talisker Beach before visiting the Talisker Distillery – yet another whisky distillery! Note that Talisker Beach is accessible via a footpath about a mile from the car park, so you will need to walk a bit to take in this gorgeous stretch of sand.

Continue on to visit another one of Skye’s most famous attractions – the Fairy Pools. Again, these are only accessible via a short walk, but it’s 100% worth it. These pools are majestic and worth spending some time enjoying – you can even swim here if you’re brave enough to enter the freezing cold water!

You can end your day exploring some of the island’s castles. You can visit Armadale Castle, which was only built in the 19th Century or venture on to the ruined Dunscaith Castle, which has a far older history. Both are interesting and worth a stop.

Day 8 – Isle of Skye

Your final day on Skye should be dedicated to exploring even more of the island’s most beautiful natural sites. Begin your day at the incredible Fairy Glen – you need to hike for about 30 minutes to reach here but it’s definitely worth it. The scenery is just breathtaking and it can be incredibly peaceful.

From here, take in the white sand and turquoise waters of Claigan Coral Beach before visiting the historic Dunvegan Castle. Originally built in the 13th Century, this is one of Skye’s most impressive castles – and it’s one of many!

And for more seaside views, venture over the Neist Point Lighthouse. Another point that is only accessible via a decent walk, you can get incredible sea views and take in some dramatic cliffside scenery here. You also may have the opportunity to see sea life like whales and basking sharks here!

Day 9 – Skye to Fort William

On your penultimate day in Scotland, it’s time to leave Skye and drive south to Fort William. Expect the drive to take about 2.5 hours without stopping and you will be treated to some truly gorgeous, bucolic scenery in rural highland Scotland.

If you’re up to it, this is a great opportunity to stop by some of the attractions outside of Fort William, such as the Glenfinnian Viaduct, before making your way to the town itself. This will be your final destination for this 10-day Scotland itinerary.

Day 10 – Glencoe

End this Scottish Highlands route in the incredible Glencoe, taking in all of the jaw-dropping scenery, going for a hike or two and learning a bit about the history of this beautiful area. No visit to the Scottish highlands is complete without spending time in Glencoe, and this itinerary is no different!

If you have more time to devote to this Scotland road trip itinerary, then there are a few options available to you. If you’re keen to explore more of island life, then consider hopping on a ferry to the Outer Hebridean island of Lewis and Harris.

Alternatively, if you want to explore just one more quaint town before you head back, then consider making a stop in Ullapool, a lovely fishing village with a lot to offer visitors.

10-Day North Coast & Orkney Itinerary

If you’d like to see some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland and a bit off the beaten path compared to the other itineraries listed here, then this is the route for you.

Roughly following the North Coast 500 route , this itinerary takes you to some of the most beautiful, sparsely populated and historic places in all of the country.

Days 1-3 – Inverness

Start your itinerary in Inverness and make sure to take the time to explore this lovely, compact city.

With three days in the highland capital, you will have ample time to explore the handful of sites in the city itself as well as embark on a number of day trips — including Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield, the Speyside whisky region and even Cairngorms National Park.

Day 4 – Ullapool

From Inverness, hit the road and head northwest to the absolutely lovely town of Ullapool.

The town of Ullapool itself is absolutely charming, with many shops along the high street worth browsing, inviting pubs that are a great place to escape the rain in, and chippies that will serve some of the best fish and chips to be found on the Scottish seaside.

Visiting Ullapool is also a great way to get out on the water and take a little tour of the small islands that lie off the coast, and even see some marine life. It is not uncommon to see pods of dolphins and lazy sea lions just off of Ullapool harbour.

Ullapool is very small, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. While you don’t need to devote a tonne of time here, one full day is more than enough to so the town justice.

Where to Stay in Ullapool

Ladysmith Guesthouse – Located in the centre of town, this guesthouse has many cosy rooms available and a great, hearty breakfast on offer each morning.

Clachan Farmhouse B&B – Located just a bit outside of the central Ullapool, this bed and breakfast is perfect for those looking for a lovely, pastoral escape. They have a range of rooms available and a wonderful breakfast included.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in the Ullapool!

Day 5 – Scotland’s North Coast

This part of the journey will provide you with possibly the most scenic drive of this whole road trip. Make your way along the windy, one-lane roads of the Northwest Highlands to the small, sleepy town of Durness and make sure to pull over and take a lot of pictures — the scenery is truly spectacular.

Make sure to check out the Smoo Cave in Durness but, besides that, there isn’t much in this tiny town. However, it is a great place to spend the night and enjoy the beautiful, pristine coast.

Where to Stay on the North Coast

Bettyhill Hotel – This charming hotel located in the fishing village of Bettyhill is the perfect place to stop for the night on Scotland’s north coast. They have several clean and comfortable rooms available and a great restaurant to grab a bite to eat.

Durness Smoo Youth Hostel – This small hostel is a great budget option with a couple of dorms to choose from. It is located close to the Smoo Cave and several fantastic hiking routes.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options on the North Coast!

Days 6 to 8 – Orkney

Your sixth day sees you leaving mainland Britain and heading to the wonderful, peaceful Orkney Islands. There is a comfortable car ferry that leaves from the town of Scrabster a few times per day and the journey takes about ninety minutes.

While very small, there are so many things to do in Orkney and one could easily spend more than the three nights I recommend for this itinerary.

These beautiful islands are packed to the gills with fascinating Neolithic sites, there is a very interesting Viking history here as well as breathtaking bucolic scenery and some very friendly locals. 

Spend your first day exploring the UNESCO-listed Heart of Neolithic Orkney. These sites include the Ring of Brodgar, Maeshowe Chambered Cairn and the Neolithic village of Skara Brae.

On your second day, take the time to explore the lovely town of Kirkwall, the capital of the islands. there’s a lot to do here and it’s a charming little town with plenty of cute shops and inviting pubs. You can also opt to visit the Highland Park Distillery.

And on your third day, you can spend it exploring the island of South Ronaldsay. Here, there are sites like the Italian Chapel and some more Neolithic wonders to take in.

Where to Stay on Orkney

Heatherlea – Also located in the biggest town on Orkney, Kirkwall, Heatherlea is a lovely bed and breakfast to stay at. They have a range of rooms available and also include a full Scottish breakfast available each morning.

Kirkwall Youth Hostel – Located in the biggest town on the Mainland island of Orkney, Kirkwall Youth Hostel is a great budget option on the islands.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in the Orkney!

Days 9 to 10 – Tain & Scotland’s Northeast Coast

After three nights in Orkney, it’s time to head back to the mainland and begin working your way south. Your stop for the evening will be the lovely town of Tain, the oldest of the royal burghs in Scotland and home to the Glenmorangie whisky distillery.

Tain is a lovely town to explore and doesn’t really see much tourism at all, so it’s very much worth exploring. The beautiful streets and landmarks are really something to enjoy and you’re sure to love the vibes of the city, especially as it’s a relatively “off the beaten path” destination to visit.

Where to Stay in Tain

Shandwick House – A charming guesthouse with a range of rooms to choose from including singles & doubles.

Carnegie Lodge Hotel – A fantastic hotel if you’re looking for something a bit more upmarket in Tain, this place has some lovely rooms available, room service on offer, and a full breakfast included in the morning.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in the Tain!

If you have more time to spare, then consider heading even further north from the incredible Orkney Islands all the way to Shetland! These islands have a fascinating history (lots of Viking invasions!) and a unique landscape that are sure to have you awe-struck.

As you can see planning the ideal itinerary through Scotland can be a bit complicated, with so many different routes available to you. However, no matter which route you decide to take, there is no denying that you will come back with countless amazing memories.

Are you planning to visit Scotland? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Thanks for the ideas. I’m working out my itenary for 10 days now I. late September – early October 2023. I really enjoyed your suggestions. I am more excited now.

Hope you have a great trip!

Can’t wait! Going to England, Ireland, Scotland and France in a few months Super excited Thanks for the information

Hope you have a lovely trip, Beth!

Thank you very much, very informative/

Went to Orkney & Highlands ‘75 in October when I was 23. Zero other tourists until Ben Nevis, there were dozens there, mostly from Europe. No one else at Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae. 45 years later, going back in 2020. I know will be vastly different. Ireland: no other tourists at Blarney Castle, no one but lighthouse keeper at Old Head of Kinsale. Only met Australians in both Scotland & Ireland. Loved quiet stay at Aviemore Youth Hostel. Advise go as Winter descends or very early Spring. Hitchhiked, trains, buses. Meet locals that way. Forget the car.

Thanks for your comment, Neil! I think that you’ll find just a few more tourists in Orkney and the Highlands in 2020 than you did in 1975 — probably a few more Aussies as well! Sounds like you’re gonna have a great time walking down memory lane, hope it’s as good as the first 🙂

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10 Incredible Scotland Tours for 2024 

These standout scotland tours include luxury offerings, outlander-focused itineraries, budget options, and everything in between. .

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Scotland is an exceptional destination for culinary enthusiasts, nature lovers, and urban adventurers. Tours of Scotland deliver all this, plus a mix of sights like the Scottish Highlands, islands, cities, and coast. Whatever your specific travel needs and wants, there’s sure to be a great tour to fit your needs. Here are my favorite Scotland tours for 2024. 

10 Great Scotland Tours for 2024 

These 10 great Scotland tours hit the highlights in as many as a few days or up to a few weeks. All accommodations, activities, transport, and most meals are handled on these tours, all with a local guide to lead the way. Simply show up with an open mind and get set to enjoy all that Scotland has to offer visitors. 

Brendan Vacations: Best of Scotland 

Brendan Vacation’s Best of Scotland (offered in both summer and winter ) itinerary is a year-round offering, but is especially lovely in sweet summertime. Travelers looking to hit many of Scotland’s rugged, beautiful highlights in a short amount of time will appreciate this compact seven-day trip.

Your first nights are in the walkable capital city of Edinburgh, exploring its famed castle and Royal Mile. If dates coincide properly, enjoy a Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo performance as well. On day three, venture north to the Scottish Highlands, stopping at the birthplace of golf, St. Andrews, along the way.

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From Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, explore Loch Ness, Culloden, and the Isle of Skye on a day trip. Then, journey back south to spend two additional nights in Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow. A few sights and stops along the way, including the tragic and scenic “Glen of Weeping”, the UK’s highest peak (Ben Nevis), and a wildlife cruise on Loch Lomond help break up the journey.

A classic distillery tour, a visit to stunning Stirling Castle, and a local farm farewell dinner (complete with traditional music and storytelling) round out this great itinerary. For a discounted price, consider the best of Scotland winter timeframe , for November through March departures. 

• Length: 7 Days
• Starting price: $2,246
• Group size: Custom tour for your group

CIE Tours: Scottish Daytripper

CIE Tours ’ specialty is Ireland (the company is partially owned by the Irish government’s national transport company), but it also has some great tours of Scotland, including the company’s Scottish Daytripper tour. The tour is unique because it uses a single city—Glasgow—as the home base so you only have to unpack once. 

And though you sleep in the same hotel (the Glasgow Grosvenor Hotel) every night during the six-day, five-night tour, you get to see a lot of Scotland on day trips to spots including the Isle of Arran, Loch Lomond, Edinburgh, and in the Scottish Borders region. 

• Length: 6 Days
• Starting price: $1,695
• Group size: Usually around 35 people

Abercrombie & Kent: Cruising the British Isles

Abercrombie and Kent’s luxury expedition cruise Cruising the British Isles is an autumnal offering that features the best of Scotland, as well as Ireland and England, all in a two-week window. Begin this all-inclusive voyage in storied Edinburgh with a stay at the luxurious, centrally-located Balmoral Hotel.

You’ll then board Le Dumont d’Urville for a sail through the Firth of Forth with views of Bass Rock, home to the world’s largest gannet (seabird) colony. Then, enjoy perfectly-tailored excursions in the Scottish Highlands before exploring a pair of famed archipelagos: the Orkneys and the Hebrides. Think sea caves, the highest cliffs in Britain, Stone Age settlements, and windswept beaches. The rest of the itinerary offers highlights of Ireland and England before adjourning in London. 

Pro Tip: book early to save $2,000 per person on all stateroom categories and suites. Additionally, for even more time in Scotland, there’s a pre-trip add-on for four extra nights in Edinburgh. 

• Length: 14 Days
• Starting price: $19,495
• Group size: limited to 148 passengers

Contiki: Scotland

Contiki’s six-day Scotland adventure is a popular trip for younger travelers that starts in Edinburgh and ends in Glasgow, and includes a day in the Scottish Highlands. Begin with two nights in Edinburgh, and a visit to the castle, before spending one night in Inverness and two additional nights in Glasgow.

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Travelers get to explore the birthplace of golf, hunt for Nessie on a Loch Ness cruise, see the William Wallace Monument, and sip their way through a whisky tasting. Other highlights include the Glenfinnan Viaduct (yer a wizard, Harry), a curling lesson, live music, and local food experiences. Winter departures are the most affordable. 

• Starting price: $972
• Group size: Average of 38 people

Bonus: Contiki also offers an end-of-year trip over Scotland’s Hogmanay also known as New Year’s Eve, from Dec. 29 to Jan 2. Travelers can revel for four days in Edinburgh to celebrate the new year. Highlights include a night street party, bagpipe performance, tour of the castle, and whisky tasting.

Intrepid: Scotland’s Orkney Islands

This cool tour from Intrepid Travel offers something special: A chance to go beyond the highlights of Scotland and dig a little deeper into the Orkney Islands . This northern archipelago is teeming with Viking history, Stone Age relics, and natural beauty.

Activities include a coastal walking tour, a trip to a small town pub, and a refined whisky tasting as you island hop. Begin by meeting your group in Inverness before taking a train north to Thurso and then hopping on a ferry to the Orkneys.

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On the ferry ride, don’t miss the Old Man of Hoy, the UK’s tallest sea stack. Get settled, then explore highlights like prehistoric Skara Brae, northern Europe’s best preserved Neolithic village. Check out the Ring of Brodgar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a few days of touring, head back to Inverness with your group. Please note, this itinerary is only offered from April through October. 

• Length: 5 days
• Starting price: $2,265
• Group size: Minimum 1, Maximum 12

Costsaver: Majestic Scotland 

Costsaver’s Majestic Scotland itinerary kicks off in Glasgow with a feast for the senses as you experience the city’s food and drink scene. Your time in Glasgow also includes a walking tour to learn about the history of the area.

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Then, head north to the Highlands, with optional add-ons like a Loch Lomond cruise and farm experience. Check out Culloden battlefield, Loch Ness, Eileen Donan Castle, and the Isle of Skye on the action-packed tour. Finish in Edinburgh, the stately capital city of Scotland, where you’ll visit Georgian New Town and the Palace of Holyroodhouse before departing. 

• Length: 7 days
• Group size: Private tours for up to 12; group trips average 40 or 45

Brendan Vacations: Highland Trail inspired by Outlander 

This 13-day itinerary embraces a major recent driver for Scottish tourism, the television series Outlander. The Highland Trail trip will be offered with select departures in May, June, July, August, and September of 2024.

Centered around famous filming locations for the show, this itinerary also offers a great look at major Scottish highlights from Edinburgh to Glasgow. Begin with three nights in the capital city of Edinburgh before spending nights in Dundee, Inverness, and Thurso, stopping at historic sites and walking in Claire and Jamie’s footsteps.

Next, go “over the Sea to Skye” for a night on the island before overnighting in Pitlochry and Glasgow for two nights each. The TV settings for Fort William, Cranesmuir, the standing stones, Castle Leoch, 1940s Inverness, and the moors of Culloden are just some of the amazing filming locations covered on this sweeping itinerary. 

• Length: 13 days
• Starting price: $4,332

Insight Vacations: Country Roads of Scotland

On Insight Vacations’ curated nine-day Country Roads of Scotland tour, visitors grow to love Scotland as they visit the cities of Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Thurso, along with the wilds of the Scottish Highlands. Begin with a castle tour in the capital city of Edinburgh before heading to St. Andrews and Inverness for golf and Loch Ness lore. Learn about fishing traditions and sample whisky in Thurso before taking a ferry to the Orkney Islands.

From there, the tour guide brings guests to the Isle of Skye for an overnight complete with views of the rugged Cuillin Hills. The tour ends with a journey south to Glasgow, with a stop at Loch Lomond on the way. Insight Vacations’ Country Roads label promises hidden adventures, local flavor, and unexpected retreats. 

• Length: 9 days
• Starting price: $3,803
• Group size: Classic group tours average 33 guests 

Trafalgar: Amazing Britain

While not strictly a Scotland tour, Trafalgar’s Amazing Britain tour spends a lot of quality time in Scotland, and includes England and Wales as well on the whirlwind 10-day itinerary. It’s a good fit for travelers who want to get an overview of Britain and go deep on Scottish destinations including major cities, lochs and castles, and the Scottish Highlands, and who want to have plenty of good times along the way.

The tour begins and ends in London (which offers the benefit of plenty of flight options, a boon if you’re booking your own flights), but spends half of the tour days in Scotland. The itinerary includes two nights in Edinburgh, a night in the Scottish Highlands, and a overnight in Glasgow. Activities are a mix of included outings like city tours of Edinburgh and Glasgow (the perfect places to get hands-on lessons about the history of Scotland) plus optional paid add-ons like a Loch Lomond boat trip and a trip to a small village for a tour and dinner. 

The trip’s non-Scotland stops include the Lake District, Liverpool, York, Bristol, and Stratford-upon-Avon. 

• Length: 10 days
• Starting price: $2,895
• Group size: Average of 40 to 45 guests

Windstar: Gaelic Explorers

With two summer 2024 departures (July 5th or August 22nd) a small ship cruise around Scotland with Windstar offers the best of Scotland’s land and waters. This journey from Dublin to Edinburgh is described as “the land of good golf and great Scotch” and includes stops in Tobermory, Portree (on the Isle of Skye), Kirkwall, Invergordon, and Leith (the port of Edinburgh).

Highlights of this highly recommended tour include Dunvegan Castle on Skye, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland; and a Royal Mile tour in Edinburgh. Optional excursions in every port help guests perfectly tailor this luxe cruise for a land-meets-the-sea look at Scotland. 

• Starting price: $4,499
• Group size: 312 guests onboard 

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25 Best Things to Do in Scotland, According to Local Experts

From castle visits to whisky tastings, here's what not to miss.

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If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, there’s a good chance your to-do list is already extensive. Walking the picturesque streets of Edinburgh, hiking in the Highlands, buying a tartan accessory or two, and attending a whisky tasting are all among the best ways to experience Scotland. But you may need more than one trip to check everything off. “Many visitors come to Scotland for a week for their first visit trying to see it all, and end up realizing that it’s a country of many contrasts,” says Katy Fennema, whisky ambassador for the Fife Arms, a five-star boutique hotel in Braemar.

To help curate your itinerary — whether for your first visit or a return trip — Travel + Leisure tapped a few of the country’s most knowledgeable residents for their best tips. Read on to discover the 25 best things to do in Scotland.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• With chalk-white beaches, craggy peaks, and ancient churches, the Hebrides islands offer diverse landscapes and unique experiences.

• Golf at St. Andrew's, one of the most famous courses in the world.

• Indulge in a wee dram — distinctive whiskies are produced in more than 150 distilleries across the country.

• Stroll Edinburgh's Royal Mile to see some of the capital's top sights, stopping for a meal or tipple along the way.

• No trip is complete without visiting at least one of Scotland's many castles, from medieval loch-side ruins to well-preserved estates.

Explore the Hebrides.

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

An archipelago off the west coast of Scotland, the Hebrides comprises over 70 islands and numerous islets, divided into the Inner and Outer Hebrides. “The Gulf Stream dominates here, allowing palm trees (somewhat incongruously) to grow in Scotland and plants from South America to thrive. It’s not unusual to discover a white-sand beach all to yourself, and whether the weather is tropical or otherwise, I defy anyone to not fall in love with this special part of Scotland,” says Fennema.

Play a round at the “home of golf.”

Charles Briscoe-Knight/Getty Images

The game of golf goes back 600 years, with its origins in St. Andrews, a historic town on the east coast of Scotland. St Andrews Links has seven public courses, including the “oldest course in the world,” aptly named Old Course.

Taste a few whiskies.

barmalini/Getty Images

One thing’s for sure: There’s plenty of whisky in Scotland. You’ll have your pick of distilleries to visit as you explore each region of the country. Glenfiddich Distillery is one of the most famous, Glenmorangie Distillery has the tallest stills in Scotland, and Royal Lochnagar Distillery is just a mile from the Royal Family’s Scottish castle , Balmoral.

For a more intimate experience, try Bertie’s Whisky Bar at the Fife Arms, which boasts a collection of over 500 whiskies. “Our tastings include four whiskies, one from each flavor profile, and are a great route to experience the breadth of flavors from Scotland’s (inter)national drink,” says Fennema.

Walk the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.

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One of the best ways to see Edinburgh’s Old Town is to walk the Royal Mile, a cobblestoned stretch connecting Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along the way, you’ll find shops, pubs, restaurants, cafes, and various attractions. David Musk, head concierge at The Balmoral, one of Edinburgh’s top hotels , recommends The Scotch Whisky Experience . “Visitors can take a tour of the virtual distillery and learn about the distilling process, then discover the art of whisky blending in a guided sensory presentation,” he says.

Visit a castle.

godrick/Getty Images

“Scotland is renowned across the world for its beautiful castles , and with hundreds to visit, it can be difficult to decide where to go,” says Musk. He recommends taking a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle , which he describes as “an icon of Scotland,” driving out to Eilean Donan Castle , “one of the most photographed castles in the country,” and stopping at Fyvie Castle , a 13th-century fortress “filled with legends, folklore, and even many ghost stories.”

Eat Scottish tablet.

Stuart Stevenson photography/Getty Images

“If you are traveling to Scotland, you must try the traditional Scottish tablet, which is a centuries-old recipe. Historians believe that the first tablet recipe was recorded in 1700, and it’s still a much-loved and enjoyed sweet treat,” says Musk. It’s a bit like fudge, but grainier and more brittle; Musk recommends this recipe if you want to make it yourself.

Drive to the village of Glencoe.

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“No description can recreate the impact of seeing Glencoe for the first time. It has long been one of the most loved places in Scotland,” says Lucy Paul, marketing executive at the National Trust for Scotland . Located in the Scottish Highlands, it’s an amazing spot for hill walking, mountaineering, and waterfall spotting.

“It’s known equally for its awe-inspiring views and sorrowful past — it is a place of history, wildlife, adventure, and myth. The mountains were formed through violent volcanic eruptions and then sculpted by massive glaciers. Also, don’t miss the reconstruction of a 17th-century turf and creel house ,” says Paul.

Tour Culloden Battlefield.

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Those interested in Scottish history will have no shortage of things to do and see around the country. “If you want to experience the site of one of Scotland’s most famous battles, this is a must-see in the Highlands, especially if you are a fan of Outlander . A powerfully emotive and atmospheric place, the battlefield is where the 1745 Jacobite Rising came to a tragic end — and you can discover the true story in the museum ,” says Paul.

Look out for the northern lights.

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When the right conditions are met — no clouds, increased solar activity, and limited pollution — there’s a chance you’ll see the northern lights in Scotland. Aim to visit between October through March, and head north to the places best known for their vantage points: the Shetland Islands, the Outer Hebrides, and the Isle of Skye.

Hike up a hill.

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“Our remote glens, or valleys, are best viewed from above. It’s here that you can really appreciate their remoteness and extraordinary beauty,” says Fennema. For a casual hike, she suggests Ben Lomond ; more adventurous explorers can try the roughly 63-mile Bealach na Bà loop, “a formidable single-track road through the mountains on the Applecross Peninsula that gives wonderful views from a car or bike (if you’re feeling brave!).”

Eat a Scottish breakfast.

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“Different from an English, Welsh, or Irish Breakfast, a Scottish Breakfast, or ‘fry up,’ serves up two different Scottish delicacies, haggis and black pudding. And, not forgetting the important addition of a potato, or tattie, a scone or two, and a Lorne, or square, sausage,” says Paul.

Cozy up by a fireplace at one of Scotland’s best hotels.

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After a chilly day trekking through the rugged Scottish landscape, there’s nothing better than settling down by a roaring fire with a warm drink in hand. Guests at Gleneagles , a five-star hotel in Perthshire renowned for its country pursuits, can sip fireside cocktails at The American Bar. Those staying at the Fife Arms in the Cairngorms can enjoy a whisky in the Drawing Room. 

Attend the Highland games.

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For hundreds of years, Highland games have been an important part of Scottish culture. The tradition continues today, with sports like tug-of-war, the hammer throw, and the caber toss — as well as dancing, music, parades, and food — populating the schedule. Highland games take place across the country from May through September. The Braemar Gathering is one of the most well-known and is regularly attended by the Royal Family.

Ski in the Cairngorms.

In the colder months, winter sports take center stage at Cairngorm Mountain . Located in Cairngorms National Park, the ski area has over 18 miles of runs and 13 ski lifts. The mountain is known to accommodate skiers of all levels, from first-timers to experts.

Step back in time at the Highland Folk Museum.

Highland Folk Museum

The title of Britain’s first open-air museum goes to the Highland Folk Museum , which showcases life in the Highlands from the 1700s to the 1950s. Open from the end of March through October, the museum features 35 historical buildings with actors demonstrating traditional crafts and customs.

Take a day trip to Glasgow.

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The largest city in Scotland, Glasgow is known for its art scene and diverse architecture, but its people are also an important part of the experience; Fennema notes that “Glaswegian hospitality is legendary. You arrive as a stranger, and leave as a friend.”

While there, Paul recommends visiting the Tenement House . “Open the door to early 20th-century Glasgow life and discover quirky items, including a ball of soap, turned jet black from years of handling, and a jar of plum jam made in 1929,” she says.

Try haggis, the national dish of Scotland.

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Haggis is made of the liver, lungs, and heart of a sheep, beef or mutton suet, oatmeal, onion, and spices. It’s boiled in a bag — although, traditionally, it’s a bag made from the animal’s stomach. Don’t let that scare you off, though; depending on how it’s cooked, haggis is peppery and almost sausage-like.  “For the less intrepid, and those who don’t eat meat, vegetarian haggis is a delicious alternative and a firm favorite in our omnivorous household,” says Fennema.

Get into the holiday spirit at Edinburgh's Winter Festival.

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The beginning of the holiday season also marks the opening of Edinburgh's Winter Festival . From late November to early January, the city hosts a variety of festivities and Christmas markets. Head to Princes Street Gardens for a true holiday wonderland — the traditional Christmas market is filled with vendors offering mulled wine, sausages, gifts, and more.

Ride The Jacobite steam train.

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Harry Potter enthusiasts will immediately recognize the arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct as part of the Hogwarts Express route in the movies. While you can visit the iconic site on foot, you can also ride The Jacobite across the viaduct. The 84-mile round trip starts in Fort William and ends in Mallaig.

Take a dip in one of Scotland’s many lochs.

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Scotland boasts thousands of freshwater lochs, many of which welcome wild swimming. The gorgeous Loch Lomond serves as a gateway to the Highlands and the Lowlands, Loch Duntelchaig is optimal for snorkeling thanks to its clear waters, and there are lots of hotels, inns, and vacation rentals around Loch Awe .

“Loch Awe is filled with history and culture and [it] supports an enormous and diverse range of wildlife including golden eagles, ospreys, and pine martens,” says Musk. 

Walk the West Highland Way.

Tomas Zrna/Getty Images

You’re guaranteed to get your steps in along the 96-mile West Highland Way , one of the best walking paths in the United Kingdom . The route is typically completed from South to North — Milngavie to Fort William — and the terrain gets trickier the further you go.

Immerse yourself in the Edinburgh Art Festival.

Andrew Milligan — PA Images/Getty Images

Every year, Scotland hosts the U.K.'s largest visual arts gathering, the Edinburgh Art Festival . During the month of August, the festival brings exhibitions, projects, and events across the city and features both established and up-and-coming artists. Book your accommodations early if you plan to visit during this period.

Board the Royal Yacht Britannia.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

“The Royal Yacht Britannia is a must-visit tourist attraction in Edinburgh,” says Musk. The lavish vessel, part of the Royal Navy's fleet, was commissioned by Queen Elizabeth II in 1954. After serving the royal family for over 40 years, it was retired and opened to visitors. Explore the engine room, the crew’s quarters, and the state apartments, among other spaces. Pre-booking tickets is highly recommended. You can even take tea on the Royal Deck or rent one of the elegant function rooms for a private dinner or event.

Drive the North Coast 500.

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Apart from hiking, the only way to truly immerse yourself in Scotland’s breathtaking scenery is to circumnavigate the 516 miles of the North Coast 500 . There are a variety of itineraries to use as inspiration, but for the most part, you’ll need between seven and nine days to complete the circuit.

Celebrate Hogmanay on December 31.

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Hogmanay festivities occur across the country as Scottish residents and visitors say goodbye to the past year and ring in the new one. The holiday season is one of the most popular times to visit Scotland . Edinburgh is particularly known for its celebrations, with fireworks, concerts, parades, and parties marking the occasion. 

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5 Day Skye & Highland Fling

2-day outlander tour (small group), jacobite steam train & the great glen, 3 day isle of skye, isle of skye and the highlands, scotland by train 2025 - edinburgh start, country roads of scotland (classic, 9 days), best of scotland (winter, 7 days), outer hebrides & skye explorer - 6 days.

“The scenery was amazing and the stops along the tour are well worth going on the tour for.” Kieran Osmond, traveled in August 2024

• Head to Isle of Skye and hike to amazing rock formations
• Admire the scenic beauty of remarkable Glen Coe
• Hunt for Nessie and get your first glance of Highland life

“We saw some absolutely spectacular landscape and some fantatsic historical sites.” Rebecca Young, traveled in July 2024

• In-depth Cultural
• Doune Castle: Explore the historic castle, which you may know as Castle Leoch
• Falkland: See the Bruce Fountain where Jamie’s ghost appears to Claire
• Midhope Castle: Admire the ruins of this 15th-century castle, better known as Lallybroch

“The train ride itself was very disappointing, There was nothing special about it.” Mary Blackshear, traveled in August 2024

• Train & Rail
• Mallaig: Explore the coastal village with views to the Isle of Skye
• Glen Coe: Dramatic & wild landscape with history to match
• Culloden Battlefield: Visit the historic battlefield and learn more about the Jacobite Rebellion

“The scenery was gorgeous and the tour was amazing.” LANRUO DING, traveled in August 2024

• Coach / Bus
• Learn about the emotive history of the Culloden Battle
• Explore Scottish Highlands and admire its scenery
• Soak up the vibes, sights and sounds of Scotland

“Maia was excellent, informative, flexible, all around awesome. What a great surprise we had Maia.” AmyChitlik Scott, traveled in October 2021

• Stroll through historic Inveraray by Loch Fyne
• Tour a famous whiskey distillery in Scotland
• Explore Edinburgh's UNESCO-listed center

“We had the most amazing time. Our tour was extremely knowledgeable.” Narelle Hamilton, traveled in May 2024

• Christmas & New Year
• Hear the legends of the Isle of Skye and admire the views
• View the picturesque Eilean Donan in the Highlands
• Enjoy the greatest railway journey in the world (Mid April – Mid Oct)

• Discover Inverness and its museum highlights
• Explore historic Edinburgh on your first day
• Walk through the stunning Cairngorms National Park

“We saw more and did more than expected. The Optional Experiences amped up the energy required.” Geneviève Cape, traveled in August 2023

• Indulge in traditional Scottish tea and scones in a castle
• Spot the legendary monster at Loch Ness
• Visit the home of 'Chariots of Fire', West Sands Beach

“The scenery was breathtaking, and the overall experience exceeded my expectations.” Marie Nicolette Hui Neo LIM, traveled in December 2023

• Sample whisky at a traditional distillery
• Explore the mystical lanes of Edinburgh
• Tour Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile

“A lovely trip which is well organized. Enjoyed the companionship of the friendly tour mates 😊” MUI KWAN CHEN, traveled in July 2024

• Sightseeing
• Isle of Skye - Take in the highlights of this beautiful island, with plenty of hiking and sightseeing to enjoy
• Scottish Highlands - Uncover some of the UK's best scenery as you traverse coastal roads, pass mountains and native pine forests
• Ullapool - Stay in this pretty whitewashed fishing village, on the shore of Loch Broom

More about Scotland

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VisitScotland

Scotland's road trips.

Nothing beats the freedom of exploring a new place on your own personalised road trip. Stop off where you like, see what you like and enjoy the route at your own pace – the perfect holiday!

These spectacular driving routes are all scenic alternatives to the main roads, with a range of great attractions en route. Check out our suggestions for what to see and do on each of the routes and plan your ultimate Scottish road trip.

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VisitScotland have produced this information in good faith and have taken reasonable steps to confirm the accuracy. We recommend that all information is checked with the businesses prior to visiting/booking. These 13 suggested routes are intended as a guide to help you plan your Scottish road trip. Please check exact directions and traffic conditions before you begin your journey. You can find more information and advice on driving in Scotland . 

The 7 Best Scotland Tours For Unforgettable Adventures That Are Achievable & Affordable

Posted on Last updated: October 13, 2023

Categories Tours , Scotland

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Welcome to Scotland, a country known for its untamed lands, historic forts, and lively traditions. Scotland, a country in the northern part of the United Kingdom, charms tourists with its majestic highlands, lovely lochs, and ancient cities.

Let’s explore the enthralling country of Scotland through the best Scotland tours, where the elements of history, pristine nature, and kind people come together.

In Scotland, multi-day tours are common and draw a sizable number of tourists each year. Scotland is the perfect location for immersive experiences because of its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and cultural heritage. The comfort of having transportation, lodging, and itinerary preparation taken care of on a multi-day tour frees travelers from the responsibility of having to plan everything themselves.

These best Scotland tours frequently visit well-known locations like Edinburgh, Glasgow, Loch Ness, the Scottish Highlands, Isle of Skye, and the North Coast 500 route. They offer the chance to explore ancient castles, learn about Scottish folklore, take in stunning vistas, and become fully immersed in local music and culture.

Scotland offers multi-day trips to suit a variety of interests and tastes. Some excursions concentrate on a particular theme, such as whisky tasting, where visitors can tour renowned distilleries and see how whisky is produced.

Others emphasize outdoor activities, including excursions such as hiking, wildlife watching, and discovering isolated islands. Furthermore, Scotland’s small size, which enables visitors to enjoy a variety of sights in a relatively short amount of time, contributes to the appeal of multi-day excursions.

Multi-day excursions in Scotland provide a practical and immersive approach to discovering the nation’s stunning landscapes, extensive past, and dynamic culture. Whether it’s a picturesque Highland tour or a whisky-tasting excursion, these tours offer visitors a unique experience.

In conclusion, Scotland entices travelers with its stunning scenery, fascinating past, and lively culture. Scotland has something to offer any traveler, whether looking for natural beauty, cultural heritage, delicious foods, or outdoor experiences. A multi-day tour offers an outstanding chance to explore the nation’s riches and make lifelong memories, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor. Here are the top six best tours in Scotland.

Page Contents

5 Day Skye & Highland Fling

Country roads of scotland (classic, 9 days), highlights of scotland, scotland’s orkney islands, discover scotland (glasgow to edinburgh), best of scotland (winter, 7 days), treasures of scotland, macbackpackers.

Your five-day award-winning trip will involve castle storming, whisky drinking, ceilidh dancing, and monster hunting. Our guides will take you through the best of Scotland as you meander across the Highlands, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience.

The overnight stays include Inverness, two nights on the Isle of Skye, and either Oban (April to October) or Fort William (November to March). This tour starts and ends in Edinburgh. You have five days to discover the highlands of Scotland while also visiting 15 Scottish cities. An expert guide, transportation, and accommodation are included in the cost of this tour. Here is a look at your full itinerary. 

Day One: cross the iconic Forth Bridges before heading into the highlands. You have the option to swim in Loch Ness before heading into Inverness. 

Day Two: The voyage continues as we head west, crossing the Corrieshalloch Gorge and admiring Torridon’s breathtaking beauty and historic mountains before heading across the river to the Isle of Skye!

Day Three: A full day on Skye! Hike up to one of the island’s more distinctive rock formations. 

Day Four: Waving goodbye to Skye, we take the ferry off the island and visit the Glenfinnan viaduct, the Bonnie Prince Charlie monument, and  Glen Coe before heading to Oban.

Day Five: On our final day, we make our way through Argyll and into the Trossachs National Park. You’ll also visit  St. Conan’s Kirk. Kilchurn Castle (Summer months only). Callander, Doune Castle, Wallace Monument or. Bannockburn Battlefield. 

Spend five full days experiencing Scotland and its stunning highlands. You’ll witness firsthand the Scottish way of life and the intriguing wonders that make this place their home. This tour is offered by Macbackpacker a platinum tour operator. For almost 20 years, MacBackpackers has organized enjoyable, fully guided excursions around Scotland.

Their excursions provided a fun, interesting, and completely different perspective of Scotland and were designed for young travelers and backpackers between the ages of 18 and 39. As you travel along some of Scotland’s most picturesque routes, your guides, who are passionate about their country and its history, will introduce you to this wonderful nation while weaving together the rich tapestry of Scottish history and culture.

Overall you can expect to have a fantastic time as you tour Scotland. This tour has an overall rating of 4.8 stars and is remarked as one of the best tours of Scotland. 

Insight Vacations

Discover Glasgow’s opulent Georgian architecture, the Military Tattoo’s birthplace in Edinburgh, and the Isle of Skye, the most picturesque island in the Inner Hebrides, by taking a cruise. As you pass by Britain’s most northern point at John O’Groats and take a ferry to the Orkney Islands, join Local Experts on this great Gaelic tour.

On these serene isles, take advantage of a slower pace of life as you explore Skara Brae, a town that is 5,000 years old, and the enigmatic Ring of Brodgar. On this tour, visit the intriguing Heritage Museum or sip a small dram of whisky at the Old Pulteney Distillery in Wick. Take afternoon tea at Blair Castle, which has been the Atholl family’s ancestral home for more than seven centuries, after touring St. Andrews’ lovely cobbled alleys.

You’ll Begin your journey in Edinburgh and finish in Glasgow! Your 9-day tour takes you through Edinburgh, Scotland, and 8 other locations in Scotland. This tour also includes lodging in a hotel and a knowledgeable guide, meals, transportation, and other amenities. Here is your full itinerary.

Day One: Arrive in Edinburgh.

Day Two: Take a day tour of the highlights of Edinburgh.

Day Three: To St. Andrews and the Highland Capital of Inverness

Day Four: Culloden, Loch Ness, and onto Thurso

Day Five:  A Day in the Orkney Islands

Day Six:  Over the Sea to Skye

Day Seven: Pass Through the Scottish Highlands to Glencoe Relaxed Start

Day Eight: Along the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond to Glasgow Relaxed Start

Day Nine: The Tour Ends Here. 

Explore Scotland’s true winding country roads on this detailed nine day across the country. You’ll meet friendly locals, learn about ancient Scottish traditions and immerse yourself in Scotland’s intense beauty. Insight Vacations operate this tour. Each moment is extraordinary when you travel with Insight Vacations. You’ll meet, feel, and taste a place in addition to seeing it.

Travel in style and stay in the best accommodations possible when you book with Insight Vacations. With real eating experiences that transport you to a location’s core, learn about new cultures and people with one of the best tour operators. Overall this tour has a high rating of 4.3 out of five stars, and it is considered one of the best in Scotland. 

G Adventures

For historians or perhaps those seeking to learn more about their Scottish ancestry, Scotland is an attractive destination thanks to its rich folklore and breathtaking landscapes.

This seven-day journey takes you to all the best cultural highlights, stopping at significant Jacobite sites like Culloden Moor in Inverness, charming locations like the Glenfinnan Viaduct, and giving you time to take in the country’s breathtaking natural beauty in Cairngorms National Park.

In between, you’ll have the chance to sample authentic Scottish cuisine and discover how whisky is manufactured through a tour and tasting excursion. It’s the finest way to simultaneously satisfy your inner whisky connoisseur and history buff.

Your tour starts in Edinburgh and ends in Glasgow. You have seven days to explore 4 destinations in Scotland. Accommodation, an expert guide, meals, and transportation are all included in this tour. Here is your full itinerary. 

Day One: Arrive in Edinburgh at any time.

Day Two: Enjoy an orientation walk of Edinburgh ending in the heart of the city

Day Three: This morning, opt to visit Cairngorms National Park and enjoy a CEO-led hike in Glenmore Forest, ending in Loch Morlich Beach. Or, consider a kayaking excursion or a visit to a reindeer farm with a ranger. After lunch, board a cruise toward Loch Ness.

Day Four: Discover the Isle of Skye with a scenic drive to the Isle, stopping at the Eilean Castle while en route for a snap of the old fortress. You’ll also visit Sligachan and Head north to visit Dunvegan Castle and its Gardens.

Day Five: Visit the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by Harry Potter. Enjoy a forest walk in Ben Nevis, followed by a distillery tour and whisky tasting at Ben Nevis Distillery. Continue to explore Glencoe and learn about this key valley and its importance in Scotland’s history.

Day Six: Enjoy some free time to explore Glasgow. 

Day Seven: Departure at any time.

Spend a full week discovering the beauty of the Scottish highlands and the chance to discover the biggest cities within the country. With a good amount of free time to explore on your own accord and a mix of guided activities for you to choose from, you’ll have the best of both worlds and never be bored. G-Adventures officially operate this tour.

Discover new and exciting locations with G-Adventures! With a large selection of destinations and departure dates, many different trips are available to suit different tastes. Overall this Scottish highlights tour offered by G-Adventures can easily be considered one of the best tours in Scotland. 

Intrepid Travel

Off the northern coast of Scotland lie the Orkney Islands, which are full of secrets and history that can be explored by land and sea. Using Kirkwall as your base, spend five days exploring the best of the Orkney Islands, beginning in the highlands capital of Inverness.

Admire the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, which dates back to before Stonehenge, venture off the beaten path on a leisurely coastal stroll on Shapinsay Island, and round off your days with live music and whisky tastings at neighborhood pubs.

This period of European history has never been more alluring, thanks to a knowledgeable local leader and a group of learners who share your enthusiasm. This adventure starts and ends in Inverness. You’ll experience three Scottish cities over five days. Accommodation, transportation, excursions, meals, and an expert guide are all complimentary on this tour. Here is what the full itinerary for this tour would entail. 

Day One: Meet your tour guide, and then from here, take a train to Thurso, and on arrival, transfer to the nearby port of Scrabster to board a ferry over to Orkney. Then catch a local bus with your group to Kirkwall.

Day Two: Go on a walking tour of Kirkwall with free time in the afternoon.

Day Three: Head off with your travel crew in a private vehicle toward some of the islands’ most historic sites. Start by visiting the Italian chapel. Continue west to the prehistoric village of Skara Brae. Pop into an old schoolhouse building for a picnic lunch of local Orkney produce. 

Day Four: walk down to the harbor to board a ferry bound for the island of Shapinsay. Set off on a coastal walk past Balfour Castle and along the western coastline. Spend the afternoon at leisure. 

Day Five: make your way back to Inverness and depart anytime.

This year’s itinerary is brand-new and improved to give travelers the best possible experience, but please note there are a few things you need to know about this tour. You should bring fall or winter clothing from September through May, as it can get chilly in Scotland. It’s also important to note that the accommodation provided is shared and if you’d prefer private accommodation it is available but at an additional cost. 

This tour offers five days to truly discover the islands of Scotland. It is truly a gift to have the opportunity to make it out to the islands, as few tourists venture out that far. It is truly a remarkable experience you don’t want to miss. That makes this tour unique and one of the best in Scotland. 

Collette Tours

Scotland calls you in with its untamed, sea-sprayed islands and elegant, historically rich castles. At the farm-to-table restaurant of the National Piping Centre, you may learn how to play the bagpipes while having dinner. On a tour of a distillery, sample Scotch whiskey or Admire Isle of Skye’s breathtaking beauty.

Visit the renowned Loch Ness via boat. Explore Skara Brae, a historic site in the Orkney Islands. Contemplate Dunrobin Castle. Meet the sheepdogs of a local family by visiting their farm. Spend some time at leisure in the Victorian city of Pitlochry.

Discover Edinburgh, a majestic city. During an interactive cooking lesson, give Scottish cuisine a contemporary spin. Learn about the friendly sheepdogs, lush, rolling Highlands, and delicious Scotch whiskey of this region.

This tour starts in Glasgow and ends in Edinburgh. With this package, you’ll have 10 days to discover eleven different Scottish cities. Transportation, meals, excursions, an expert guide, and much more are included in the cost of the tour. Here is your full itinerary. 

Day One: Arrive in Scotland.

Day Two: visit the National Piping Centre. After a demonstration and lesson with a renowned piper, it’s your chance to give it a go! Then, join your fellow travelers for a lively welcome dinner at the Centre’s farm-to-table restaurant. 

Day Three:  travel to the Highlands, passing by the beautiful scenery of Loch Lomond. This afternoon, stop by one of Scotland’s whisky distilleries. 

Day Four: Take a stunning drive along the “Road to the Isles” and over to the Isle of Skye. Visit Armadale Castle & Gardens* and the Museum of the Isles to learn about island life and the history of Skye. 

Day Five: Travel through the Great Glen for a Visit to the striking ruins of Urquhart Castle before enjoying a cruise on Loch Ness.

Day Six: visit the Orkney Islands as well as Skara Brae and discover the remains of a Neolithic village.

Day Seven:   visit Culloden Battlefield. You’ll also stop at the majestic Dunrobin Castle with free time in the afternoon.

Day Eight: visit a family-run farm set in the heart of the Highlands. Continue to the vibrant Victorian town of Pitlochry for some time at leisure. End your day in Scotland’s capital city of Edinburgh.

Day Nine: Enjoy a free day in the capital of Scotland!

Day Ten: Departure at any time. 

Experience the true beauty of Scotland over ten days on this exciting tour! You’ll see the top tourist sites and a unique look into life in Scotland. Oh, and don’t worry, you will get to see lots of stunning castles!

Collette Tours offers this tour. Since 1918, Collette has established a name for itself as a travel agency that provides exceptional experiences, outstanding customer service, and a broad range of appeal. Benefits that elevate the guided travel experience are available when using Collette as your travel companion.

In addition to giving you better value for your money, their all-inclusive excursions guarantee that every component meets their high standards. Overall this tour operator is also considered “Gold” for its dedication to travelers. This can be said to be one of the best tours in Scotland. 

Trafalgar Tours

Discover the best of Scotland, from Glasgow’s unique alleys to Edinburgh Castle. Enjoy the romance and history of the Scottish Highlands and consider the enigmatic depths of Loch Ness before toasting the beautiful lochs, glens, and fabled locals of Bonnie, Scotland.

Start your journey in Edinburgh and finish in Glasgow. Beginning in Edinburgh, finishing in Glasgow! This tour includes a 7-day tour itinerary that visits Edinburgh, Scotland, and 7 other locations in Scotland. This tour package also includes hotel accommodations, a knowledgeable time, meals, transportation, and more. Here is a look at your full itinerary for this tour. 

Day One: Arrive at any time.

Day Two: Discover Enchanting Edinburgh

Day Three: Venture into the Scottish Highlands

Day Four: Explore Culloden, Loch Ness, and the Isle of Skye

Day Five: Journey to Thriving Glasgow

Day Six: Walk the Walls of Stirling Castle, Connect with Locals, Dive Into Culture

Day Seven: End in Glasgow. A full week to truly discover Scotland and all of its four corners. This tour is operated by Trafalgar Tours, known for its well-put-together European itineraries! 

For almost 70 years, Trafalgar has been handcrafting distinctive guided vacations. They were the first to introduce tourists to the local way of life, and they still do so today by offering carefully chosen insider experiences that bring destinations to life.

They open the way by featuring locals who share their lore, culture, and cuisine. Every year, Trafalgar introduces new travel options with more than 230 vacations in Europe, North, Central & South America, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia.

Select from 11 travel types designed to delight even the most experienced traveler. Therefore, Trafalgar offers the ideal selection of tours tailored to your preferences, whether you want to travel with your complete family or discover less-traveled locations in a small group. Overall, count this tour as one of the best in Scotland. 

Blue-Roads Touring

Scotland is home to a wide variety of beauties, including alluring lochs, eerie glens, and towering mountains. We’ll see some of the nation’s most breathtaking landscapes, intriguing tales, and enduring customs on this trip of the historic Borders and picturesque Central Belt, many of which may be discovered in less-traveled areas off the beaten path.

Are you willing to learn more about Scotland? You should take this journey. Starting and finishing in Edinburgh! You can take a 7-day travel package through Edinburgh, Scotland, and 5 other Scottish locations with the In-depth Cultural Tour Treasures of Scotland. Treasures of Scotland offers lodging, a knowledgeable guide, meals, transportation, and more. Here is your full itinerary for this tour. 

Day One: Meet in Bonnie, Scotland’s picturesque capital. 

Day Two: board the mini-coach and make your way to Doune. Travel through the spellbinding Sma’ Glen en route to Perthshire.

Day Three: set off to explore the vastness of the highlands with a kilted safari ranger with a visit to  the Red Deer Centre 

Day Four: Enjoy a whisky-tasting session to look forward to at the postcard-perfect Glengoyne Distillery. End the day along the western shore of Loch Lomond.

Day Five: take a day trip through the magnificent Glencoe Valley. Visit Glencoe Visitor Centre before returning to Luss. 

Day Six: round off your visit to Loch Lomond with a scenic loch cruise. Make a stop in New Lanark to discover the city. 

Day Seven: you will make a couple of historical stops before the tour ends then your tour will end.

Explore and get to know the true Scotland on this one-week tour. Experience the true Scottish culture and the beauty of Scotland’s nature on this tour. This tour offers a busy itinerary perfect for those looking to take the ultimate adventure. Your tour continues even on your departure day! 

Blue-Roads Touring offers this tour. Imagine a deeper-dived vacation that includes being taken off the beaten path to view each location through the eyes of the residents who call it home rather than just passing through famous landmarks and significant cities.

Blue-Roads has spent more than 30 years designing small group trips that expose you to real encounters and sights you’ll never forget, all while offering the convenience, security, and knowledge that come with a luxury mini-coach tour. This tour has an overall rating of 4,4 out of five stars and is considered one of the best tours of Scotland. 

In conclusion, Scotland is home to a fantastic selection of excursions highlighting the nation’s stunning natural surroundings, extensive history, and dynamic culture. These top six tours in Scotland offer remarkable encounters and a thorough immersion into this incredible nation. These itineraries provide something for every tourist, from the enchanting Scottish Highlands to the historic beauty of Edinburgh and the legendary attraction of Loch Ness. These tours are a terrific option for experiencing Scotland because of their expertly designed itineraries, expert guides, and stress-free approach. You are invited to begin a captivating journey of magnificent Scotland. Your Scottish experience is waiting for you! 

If none of these tours work for you in Scotland, please do not worry. There is a wide variety of tour options in the country, and we are confident that there will be something that fits your needs and interests.

Take a look at all the group tours in S c o t l a n d now , which you can sort by private or group, maximum sizing, budget, dates, and much (much more). The team at TourRadar is also always more than happy to answer any questions, provide further information or assist in any way in finding the perfect tour for you.

Find Your Tour

Official scotland tours from edinburgh, glasgow, inverness and london, top one day scotland tours, loch ness and the highlands.

Price from: £ 59.00 Departs from: Edinburgh

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and The Kelpies

Price from: £ 52.00 Departs from: Edinburgh

Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands

Price from: £ 60.00 Departs from: Glasgow

The Ultimate Skye Tour

Price from: £ 125.00 Departs from: Inverness

Top Tours of Scotland and Scotland Vacations

Jacobite steam train, skye and the highlands.

Price from: £ 790.00 Departs from: Edinburgh

Skye and the Scottish Highlands

Price from: £ 400.00 Departs from: Edinburgh and Glasgow

Edinburgh, Loch Ness and the Highlands

Price from: £ 595.00 Departs from: London

Hebridean Explorer Small Group Tour

Price from: £ 850.00 Departs from: Edinburgh

Scottish Tours - The best choice for quality and value for over 100 years.

If you are planning to visit Scotland then you will find our range of one-day trips, short breaks and luxury escorted tours the best way to see the real Scotland - a land of fairytale castles , picturesque lochs and spectacular scenery   including the world famous Jacobite steam train used in the filming of Harry Potter.

Our city and Scotland tours depart from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and London. Our tours of Scotland are the perfect way to explore the real Scotland and convenient too with daily departures on the most popular Scottish Highland tours . We select the routes and tour guides.

With Scottish Tours you can choose to visit Loch Ness and Inverness or Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond - both popular one-day trips of Scotland. Or why not travel further afield, on one of our short break tours. The magical Isle of Skye and Eliean Donan Castle , the remote yet picturesque surroundings of the Applecross Peninsula and nature watching in a lonely Highland glen are just some of the delights that await you when you choose a short break tour with Scottish Tours.

Our extended range of sightseeing tours of Scotland is the most comprehensive available. You can select your Scottish Tour confident in the knowledge that the widest possible choice of tours of Scotland has to offer.

For a different Scotland tour experience check out our exciting range of Scottish train Tours . Speed comfortably from London by Express train to visit our great cities of Edinburgh or Glasgow. Then tour Scotland by luxury coach to visit Inverness, the Isle of Skye or even Scotland's Far North Coast! All in one convenient package.

Much of Scotland can be explored on a comfortable tour from Edinburgh or Glasgow. And there is only one way to see Scotland - with Scottish Tours.

Scotland's Must See Destinations

Isle of skye.

The Isle of Skye offers some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery. See the Cullins and visit the fairy pools.

Scotland's largest expanse of water is shroud in the mystery of 'Nessie' - the Loch Ness monster.

Jacobite Steam Train

Travel aboard the real Hogwarts Express to see mountains, lochs and, of course, the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Follow in Claire and Jamie’s time-travelling footsteps on our Outlander tours.

Scotch Whisky

Whisky (Whiskey) takes its name from the Gaelic for ‘water of life’. Malt or blended Scotch is the world leader. Visit distilleries in Islay and Speyside.

Scotland's Islands

Their natural beauty takes your breath away. Local prehistoric treasures and native wildlife are fascinating and rewarding.

Steeped in history and legend, the spectacular Highlands of Scotland, are one of the last unspoilt regions of Europe.

Scotland’s many historic castles and palaces are just waiting to be explored.

Harry Potter

Whether you’ve watched the entire series or are travelling with kids in tow, get to know the world’s favourite wizard on an exclusive tour. Go to famous filming locations with a Harry Potter day tour or extended Harry Potter tour from Edinburgh, Inverness, Glasgow and London.

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Quality Sightseeing since 1907

For over 100 years we've been making touring Scotland a quality experience for visitors from all over the World. Over the years our Scottish tours have been chosen by many thousands of travellers who want to tour Scotland in comfort and style.

Scottish Tours has a long and distinguished pedigree and we are proud to include the famed names of Scottish Motor Traction, Scottish Omnibuses and Eastern Scottish as part of our heritage.

Today we continue to offer our clients the highest standards of service and the very best value. You can tour Scotland with Scottish Tours confident in the knowledge that no one has more experience.

Tour Scotland with Scottish Tours. Discover the highlights of Scotland on a tour to Loch Ness, The Scottish Highlands, Skye and Loch Lomond.

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Day Trips & Days Out in Scotland

Now is your time to enjoy a day trip in Scotland! There are hundreds of tours, day trip ideas, itineraries and more than you can use to create an exciting weekend break, or even a spontaneous last-minute day out.

A City Sightseeing Bus in the Grassmarket

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

How to Travel Responsibly

© E-City Chauffeur Ltd / Patrice Mestari

It's more important than ever that we are kind and look after each other and Scotland itself. Wherever you're going on your day trip, it's important to:

• Plan ahead.
• Book before you go.
• Don't leave anything behind.
• Explore somewhere different.

Read more on being a  responsible tourist .

If you're a city dweller...

If you're based in one of our incredible cities or are visiting, it's easy to explore beyond the city with lots of ideas for day trips and tours.

5 Great Day Trips From Aberdeen

Discover great days trips from Aberdeen easily accessible by public transport. Including Stonehaven, Breamar, Elgin, Arbroath and more!

6 Cool Day Trips from Dundee

Plan exciting day trips from Dundee and discover an array of attractions.

6 Great Day Trips From Edinburgh

Discover great days trips from Edinburgh easily accessible by public transport. Including South Queensferry, Melrose, Roslin, North Berwick and more!

5 Best Day Trips from Glasgow

Find exciting day trips from Glasgow by public transport. Discover places including Loch Lomond, Falls of Clyde, Lochranza Distillery and more.

7 Fantastic Day Trips From Inverness

Discover fantastic day trips from Inverness, easily accessed by public transport.

7 Amazing Day Trips From Perth

Discover amazing day trips from Perth which can be accessed by public transport.

Looking for something new?

Cottages at Pittenweem

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Explore a different day out in Scotland

If you're looking for a new or slightly different adventure to experience in Scotland, there is plenty on offer!

West Sandwick Beach

Days Out with the Family

Pack up the family and head outdoors to enjoy a range of exciting family-friendly adventures and activities.

Mennock Pass

Enjoy the scenic route

Sometimes one of the best parts of embarking on a trip is the mesmerising scenery you can witness along the way.

Pettycur Beach and Pettycur Bay Holiday Park

Explore our itineraries

If you want to take the thinking out, why not explore some of our enticing itineraries? From one day and weekend trips, to long week-long holidays and more.

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18 Best Road Trips in Scotland You Can’t Miss

February 21, 2024

Scotland is one of the world’s best road trip nations.

The country has countless scenic drives, a massively diverse landscape, stunning lochs , endless remote adventures, and lots of charming towns, cities and villages . But more importantly than that, Scotland’s road trip infrastructure is great, with a surprising number of well-planned and perfectly-waymarked official road trips .

So in this article, I’ve brought you the best of them, along with a small few other routes I like.

I’ve included in my list both short trips and long trips, so there’s an adventure you can enjoy no matter how much time you have.

For each road trip, I’ve recommended some top things to do and see along the way, and a guideline for how long each one should take.

Anyway, enough of all the introductions. Here they are: the top 18 road trips in Scotland.

1. The North Coast 500

2. north and west highlands route, 3. the heart 200, 4. the south west coastal 300, 5. highland tourist route, 6. argyll coastal route, 7. deeside tourist route, 8. the arran ring road, 9. perthshire tourist route, 10. the trotternish loop, 11. galloway tourist route, 12. the snow roads scenic route, 13. moray firth route, 14. forth valley tourist route, 15. fife coastal route, 16. angus coastal route, 17. borders historic route, 18. clyde valley tourist route, before you go.

The big boy. The top dog. The number 1.

The North Coast 500 is by far the most famous Scottish road trip. If you’re only going to do one road trip in the nation, make it this one. The other ones are great, they’re just not this great.

I love the North Coast 500. I’ve done it twice, and I’d be happy to tackle it ten more times. A 500 miles (800km) loop through the most northern parts of the Scottish Highlands, the route includes some of the best mountains, lochs , beaches, cliffs, scenery and villages you’ve probably ever seen.

Most people tell you to do this in 2-5 days. Don’t listen to those people. You could probably spend a month on the NC500 , and still want to spend more.

If you like walking, you should be particularly slow. Along the way, there are loads of beautiful hiking spots. All of my favorites are the hikes along the northern part of the west coast, in and around places like Ullapool, Torridon and Gairloch. If you only do one hike along the NC500, make it Stac Pollaidh.

• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Inverness (or Applecross)
• Distance: 500 miles/800km
• Time: 5-21 days
• Highlights: Ullapool, Torridon, Lochcarron, Durness, the Bealach na Bà and much, much more

If you don’t have time to do the entire North Coast 500, but want to enjoy (most of) the best bits, ride the North and West Highlands Route instead.

That said, because this route isn’t a loop, it’s nearly as easy to just complete the entire North Coast 500. So my advice is, unless you have some huge reason to not do the NC500 instead, you should do the NC500 instead.

But the North and West Highlands Route is still great.

You start in Ullapool, one of the world’s most endearing port towns, and you end in the iconic John O’Groats. Along the way, you still get all of the northern coast, most of the best bits of the western coast, and plenty of hikes, hills, beaches and tiny towns.

• Itinerary: Ullapool to John O’Groats
• Distance: 158 miles/254km
• Time: 4-10 days
• Highlights: Ullapool, Durness, the mountains and the beaches

One of the newest official road trips in Scotland, the gimmick here is that the route goes right through the so-called heart of the nation.

This road trip itinerary takes drivers in and around Perth, Stirling, the southern tip of the Cairngorms, the eastern tip of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, and some other lovely places.

It’s a pretty unique route, because it takes drivers through a remote, rural and unexplored area sandwiched between lots of massively popular places. It’s a weird little no-man’s land where few tourists go, but way more should.

The Heart 200 narrowly misses Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and some of the nation’s most popular hiking spots, but it hits lots of under-the-radar stuff. So if you want to see the hidden gems of a relatively accessible area of Scotland, the Heart 200 is a really good choice.

And as a sweet little bonus, the route passes through loads of lovely towns and villages including Pithlochry, Callander and Bridge of Allan.

• Itinerary: Loop starting and ending in Perth or Stirling
• Distance: 158 miles/320km
• Time: 3-7 days
• Highlights: Perth, Striling, Bridge of Allan, Loch Tay, Loch Tummel, and the eastern tip of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Another loop, this one takes drivers through the southwest of Scotland, and to some of the most underrated parts of the nation. You probably haven’t heard of Stranraer, Moffat and Ayrshire-but after tackling this scenic drive, you’ll wonder why.

It’s a good choice if you don’t want to be surrounded by lots of other tourists. Rides such as the North Coast 500 and the Trotternish Loop, though brilliant, are always ridiculously busy. But the South West Coastal 500 is exactly the opposite. So if you like quiet drives, undiscovered terrain, and secluded experiences, you’ll absolutely love it.

It’s also a good option if you don’t have time to head too far north-the most easterly point of the loop is right beside the English border.

The relatively straight stretch of coast between Ayr and Stranraer is lovely, while just south, you’ll find Mull of Galloway lighthouse, the most south westerly point in Scotland. Other highlights include towns and villages Girvan, Portpatrick and Whithorn, and the hikes and hills of Galloway Forest Park.

• Itinerary: Loop starting and ending in Dumfries
• Distance: 300 miles/482km
• Time: 7-14 days
• Highlights: Ayr, Stranraer, Mull of Galloway, Moffatt, Galloway Forest Park, and huge stretches of coastline

The name of this route is sort of misleading.

The most famous tourist spots in the Highlands are Loch Ness, Fort William, Glencoe, and all the other places you’ve already heard of.

So you’d assume this drive goes through all of them.

It doesn’t. It actually runs from Aberdeen to Inverness, on an inland route through some of the lesser-known parts of the Highlands.

You cross through some of the Cairngorms, the biggest national park in the UK, where you can get involved in loads of hiking and nature-spotting.

But the real highlight here is all the historical stuff. You drive past four brilliant castles (including Cawdor Castle and Fort George), and you hit Culloden Battlefield, an immersive experience unpacking a massive battle between the British and the Jacobites.

If you want insights into Scottish history and heritage, this is one of the best road trips in Scotland.

• Itinerary: Aberdeen to Inverness
• Distance: 116 miles/187km
• Time: 3-5 days
• Highlights: Cawdor Castle, Fort George, Culloden Battlefield, Aberdeen, Inverness and Grantown-on-Spey

This route runs 129 miles (208 km) between Fort William and Loch Lomond, two of the most popular spots in the Highlands.

But it doesn’t go inland. As you probably worked out from the name of the route, it hugs the western coast for the majority of its length.

The Argyll Coastal Route is a good choice for foodies, as it takes drivers past some of Scotland’s best (and most famous) seafood eateries, including Loch Fyne Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Iverary’s Samphire, and the Green Shack in Oban.

A huge highlight is the town of Oban itself. One of the most popular tourist spots on Scotland’s west coast, the crescent-shaped settlement is ridiculously pretty.

Considering how short the route is, it’s unbelievably diverse. You get lochs, coasts, tourist towns, some of Scotland’s biggest mountains, and several of its most well-known spots. If you want an introduction to all that Scotland’s famous for , it’s brilliant.

• Itinerary: Tarbet to Fort William
• Distance: 129 miles/208km
• Time: 4-7 days
• Highlights: Oban, Fort William, Ben Nevis, Loch Lomond, Tarbet and all the food

This inland ride from Perth to Aberdeen, like a lot of the routes we’re featuring, takes you through some of Cairngorms National Park.

But because it travels through one of the more remote regions of the Cairngorms (and that’s saying something), you get to see lots of the area’s lesser-known sites. There’s also a huge amount of wildlife-so take your time and you might see deer, eagles, pine marten and more.

You’ll pass through Blairgowrie (most famous for its fruit-growing fields and farms), hit the two lovely cities of Perth and Aberdeen, and drive through and beyond loads of mountains and forests. If you want a remote inland adventure on the eastern side of Scotland, the Deeside Tourist Route is a brilliant little solution.

• Itinerary: Perth to Aberdeen
• Distance: 108 miles/174km
• Highlights: Braemar, Ballater, Perth, Aberdeen, and the quieter Cairngorms

This drive around the island of Arran is one of my favorite Scotland experiences.

Arran is the perfect size for an island adventure. And even better, it’s like someone took all the best bits of Scotland, squashed them together, and shipped them off to an island.

Not too big, not too small, you can do all of Arran’s best bits, hidden gems and everything in between in around a week. So if you’re a pedantic completionist (like me), you’ll find the place appealing.

And luckily for us, there’s a big ol’ ring road that basically runs around the entire perimeter of the island. The road is only 56 miles (90 km), but you’ll see plenty to stop and explore.

Important: this route is actually part of a 5-drive collection of road trips called ‘The Coig.’ Making up the 5, you have the Arran route, a route running around the perimeter of Bute, a route running around the perimeter of Great Cumbrae, a 138-mile (222km) circular trip around the western coast of Scotland, and another 55-mile (88km) loop just north of its bigger brother.

• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Brodick
• Distance: 56 miles/90km
• Time: 2-7 days
• Highlights: Brodick, Goatfell, Lochranza, Eas a’ Chrannaig, and all the coastal views

The Perthshire Tourist Route is a tiny trip that runs through a similar area to the Heart 200. So if you want a flavor of the ride without committing to the full thing, it’s a great option.

Running in a near-straight line just west of Perth, it clocks in at only 43 miles (69km), so it’s a lovely little option for a day trip. That said, it still packs lots of excellent highlights into its relatively diminutive dimensions, so you can easily stretch it out to two or three days (or even more!) if you want to.

If you like woodlands and forests, you’ll love this one-there are loads of easily-accessible wooded trails you can explore on excellent hikes. In and around these woodlands, you can often spot deer, squirrels, golden eagles and mountain hares.

If you want to feel remote without really being remote, this is one of the best road trips in Scotland.

• Itinerary: Greenloaning to Ballinluig
• Distance: 43 miles/69km
• Time: 1-3 days
• Highlights: Gleneagles, Innerpeffray Library, Highland Safaris near Aberfeldy, and all the woodland

This isn’t an official road trip, but it’s one of my absolute favorite on-road Scottish adventures.

The Isle of Skye is made up of a little central portion along with lots of explorable peninsulas. The most famous of them, the Trotternish peninsula, is the most northern part of Skye. It’s home to some of the most iconic places on the island, including the Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, Mealt Falls and more. And at its southern tip, there’s the colorful capital of Portree.

So if you want to see some of Skye’s most famous attractions (and loads of other lovely places too) , the Trotternish Loop is a perfect solution. Even better, the drive itself is absolutely phenomenal.

Most people complete this in a day, but I recommend longer. The well-known highlights are brilliant, but the other stuff is even better.

• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Portree
• Distance: 50 miles/80km
• Time: 2-4 days
• Highlights: The Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, Mealt Falls and Portree

Just like the South West Coastal 500, which we’ve already covered above, this ride is in the massively underrated region of Dumfries and Galloway. But while it’s in the same area as its longer neighbor, it’s a slightly different experience.

Firstly, it’s not a loop. Secondly, a large part of the ride runs along the eastern perimeter of Galloway Forest Park, one of the least-explored adventure areas in Scotland. If you like woodland walks, you can access loads of them via this route. While the South West Coastal 500 is mainly coasts, seas and shores, the Galloway Tourist Route is all hikes, hills and secluded woods.

One of the least-populated regions in southern Scotland, you get lots of peace and seclusion along this route.

The ride starts in the elopers’ paradise of Gretna Green, and ends with an endearing coastal finalé in Ayr.

• Itinerary: Gretna to Ayr
• Distance: 92 miles/148km
• Time: 3-4 days
• Highlights: Gretna Green, Galloway Forest Park, Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and Ayr

The Snow Roads Scenic Route takes drivers through the highest public road in Britain. It’s named so because this road is usually the first in Britain to be covered in snow . So, inevitably, the route is packed with snow-capped peaks, lofty mountains, heathery moors and wide-open bogs.

The vast majority of the ride is in the Cairngorms National Park. So you get loads of forests, Scottish heather , endless peaks and summits, and lots of cute towns and villages. The infrastructure along the Snow Roads Scenic Route is also great: there are designated ‘photo-posts’ along the way, offering the best views, and the best places to watch the landscapes change.

Because you drive over lots of passes, you hit lots of tight switchbacks, blind turns and towering summits. If you like driving on (relatively) challenging roads, you’ll love this ride. The highest point is Cairnwell Pass, which measures in at around 670 meters.

For lofty panoramas, this is without doubt one of the best road trips in Scotland.

• Itinerary: Blairgowrie to Grantown-On-Spey
• Distance: 90 miles/144km
• Highlights: Cairnwell Pass, Braemar, Tomintoul, Corgarff Castle, and all the lofty roads

If you’re staying in Inverness (or if you live in Inverness!), this is a great option for a short but beautiful trip. The semi-circle route starts (or ends) in the city, and takes drivers through some of Scotland’s least-explored Highland landscapes.

What’s great about the route is that it heads north, in a similar area to the North Coast 500. But instead of following the same route, it instead heads inland, offering a more remote part of an already-remote part of the world. Two highlights are Easter Ross and Sutherland, a pair of rural, rugged, untouched Highland regions.

If you visit between May and November, make sure you go to the Falls of Shin. You’ll see loads of salmon diving upstream.

Considering its short length, The Moray Firth Route is a pretty diverse ride, offering coastlines, lochs, great waterfalls , and lovely towns.

• Itinerary: Inverness to Loch Fleet
• Distance: 80 miles/128km
• Highlights: Inverness, Beauly, Rogie Falls, Falls of Shin, Easter Ross and Sutherland

If you don’t have much time to explore and you’re looking for an easy road trip out of Edinburgh, the Forth Valley Tourist Route is a great choice. It takes drivers between Edinburgh and Stirling on a relatively remote ride which avoids the direct M9 motorway route.

Measuring in at only 43 miles (69 km) you can easily do this as a day trip if you’re short on time.

If you like architecture and engineering, you’ll love this route. You come across lots of famous buildings, statues and monuments, including the Forth Bridge and Antonine Wall, a pair of UNESCO-listed heritage sites . The second is one of Scotland’s most significant Roman sites, sort of like a mini Hadrian’s Wall.

You end your ride in Stirling, a friendly city bustling with charm and dominated by a huge castle.

• Itinerary: Edinburgh to Stirling
• Distance: 43 miles/69 km
• Time: 1-2 days
• Highlights: The Forth Bridge, Antonine Wall, The Falkirk Wheel, Edinburgh and Stirling

An excellent option for people who like beaches, under-the-radar adventures and slightly shorter road trips, the Fife Coastal Route is a lovely ride along one of Scotland’s most underrated coastal spots.

And because the southern tip of the route is just north of Edinburgh, it’s a good choice if you want an adventure close to Scotland’s capital-or if you don’t want to travel very far north.

Starting just short of Stirling and coming really close to Dundee, the route runs along a pretty populated part of Scotland. So if you like fishing villages, beautiful houses, coastal towns and lots of conveniences, you’ll probably prefer this drive to some of the country’s more remote and rural road trips.

Elie, Crail and Pittenweem are all pretty cosy and alluring, while Kirkcaldy, Anstruther and St Andrews are three of the bigger settlements along the way. The last of them, you’ve probably heard of-it’s one of the world’s most famous golfing destinations.

For an accessible adventure, this is one of the best road trips in Scotland.

• Itinerary: Kincardine to Newport-on-Tay
• Distance: 77 miles/124km
• Highlights: Elie, Crail, Pittenweem and St Andrews

Another short coastal option, this ride runs between Dundee and Aberdeen.

It starts just north of the most northern point of the Fife Coastal Route (which we just covered above). So if you want to combine those two smaller routes into one longer route, you can!

Even if you don’t, you’ll love the Angus Coastal Route. When they’re looking for bigger settlements, most tourists visit Edinburgh, Glasgow or Inverness. But both Dundee and Aberdeen are beautiful, and not enough tourists visit them-or the towns and villages between them, such as Stonehaven and Montrose. It’s an underrated part of Scotland, and it’s a lovely route.

For the majority of this ride, you have mountains to the west and the sea to the east, so you get lots of brilliant views and vistas.

• Itinerary: Dundee to Aberdeen
• Distance: 68 miles/109km
• Highlights: Dundee, Aberdeen, Arbroath Abbey, Stonehaven, and the Grampian Mountains

When most people visit Scotland, they head to the Highlands, the coast, or the big cities, but Scotland’s border region is brilliant. Nowhere near enough people explore the most southern stretches of Scotland.

On the Borders Historic Route, you start in Northumberland, in the very north of England, and make your way to Edinburgh via an inland route taking in some of southern Scotland’s least-explored areas.

The coastal stretch between Edinburgh and Northumberland is great, but the inland stretch (which this route follows) is way less busy. So if you want remote, rural and southern, you’ll absolutely love the Borders Historic Route.

Some highlights along the way include the small towns of Hawick, Selkirk and Galashiels. And Edinburgh is pretty good too.

Because I’m from Northumberland, I might be biased, but I think this route is incredible.

• Itinerary: Scots Dyke to Edinburgh
• Distance: 89 miles/143 km
• Highlights: Hawick, Selkirk, the remote rolling hills, and Edinburgh

If you’re in Glasgow and you’re looking for a short and speedy road trip from the city, the Clyde Valley Tourist Route is a great choice.

A quick-one day adventure, the ride is perfect if you’re traveling with kids. It’s not Scotland’s most rural or intrepid adventure, but it’s a lovely drive south of Glasgow that takes you past loads of excellent day trip destinations .

The route runs (almost) parallel to the M74 motorway, so it’s a good way to see secluded spots in a busy, built-up area.

Stop-off options along the way include ancient castles, forests, country parks, a bird of prey center, waterfalls, wildlife reserves, and much more.

• Itinerary: Abington to Hamilton
• Distance: 38 miles/61 km
• Time: 1 day
• Highlights: Lanark Loch, Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve and West Forth Forest

Thanks for reading my guide to the best road trips in Scotland!

If you want to know anything else about one of my favorite nations on the planet, we have plenty more stuff on our site. Check out our guides to the best road trips from Edinburgh , the best road trips from Glasgow , the best hikes in Scotland , the best cliffs in Scotland , and the best coastal walks in Scotland .

And again, if you want to explore Scotland’s best road trip, here’s my full guide to the North Coast 500 .

For more road trips in the UK head over to my selection of the best road trips in England , the best road trips in Wales , and the best drives in Northern Ireland .

And don’t forget to check out my extensive list of the best road trips in the UK .

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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The 12 Best Road Trips in Scotland

Iain Masterton / Getty Images

Because Scotland is so vast, the country is perfect for a road trip. Whether you're interested in exploring the small towns of the Scottish Highlands or seeing the beaches of the southwestern coast, there's a road trip for every traveler. Scotland has several official road routes, including the South West Coastal 300 and the Borders Historic Route, which makes things easier on travelers who are looking for a pre-set itinerary (although, of course, you can always deviate from the route). Many visitors opt to rent a camper van to camp out along the way, but Scotland is also filled with great small hotels and B&Bs. So grab a map and start planning your next great road trip in Scotland.

Glasgow to Glencoe

Jon Douglas / Getty Images

Head out of Glasgow to Glencoe, a route that stretches about 90 miles and travels along the banks of the famous Loch Lomond. The drive, which takes around two hours, brings you first to Glencoe, the main town in the Glencoe National Nature Reserve, which boasts one of the most famous driving roads in Scotland. For more, continue on to Fort William, where you'll find Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the U.K.

Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail

iweta0077 / Getty Images 

The Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail stretches for 165 miles, offering the opportunities for a four- or five-day road trip along the coastline. Start in St. Cyrus, in southern Aberdeenshire, and wind your way up past scenics spots like Cruden Bay, the Forvie National Nature Reserve and Banff, which is home to the historic Duff House. It's a great way to experience the beaches of Scotland, as well as eat great seafood and see some of the country's smaller towns. You'll pass through Aberdeen itself, but consider staying in the more remote spots along the trail before you finish near Spey Bay.

Isle of Skye

Cédric Lopez / EyeEm / Getty Images

Fly into Inverness or Glasgow and rent a car to experience the wild beauty of Scotland's Isle of Skye. Once on the island, which is about five hours from Glasgow by car, there's a lot to explore, so you can make your trip as long or short as you prefer (and then potentially extend it with a drive around the western Highlands). Don't miss the iconic fairy pools, near the Black Cuillin Mountains, and, of course, every visitor needs to hike to the Old Man of Storr. A lot of Skye is wilderness, so this road trip is best for outdoorsy explorers, although there are several small towns worth visiting as well. Be sure to bring a good map as cell phone service on Isle of Skye can be spotty.

Snow Roads Scenic Route

munro1 / Getty Images

Get a glimpse of the Highlands on the Snow Roads Scenic Route , a 90-mile drive through Cairngorms National Park. Start in Blairgowrie and wind your way north through the park, stopping Braemar and Ballater before you reach Grantown-on-Spey. There's a lot to see and do along the way, including for families with kids. The roads on the Snow Roads Scenic Route can be narrow and winding, so use caution when driving and be sure to bring a good map.

South West Coastal 300

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Explore southern Scotland via the South West Coastal 300, a 300-mile circular route that takes travelers along the coast as well as through the countryside. It's best done over several days, with stops in picturesque destinations like Port Logan, Whithorn, and Ballantrae. There's a lot to fit into your itinerary, from hiking along the coastline of Solway Firth to seeing historic spots like Dundrennan Abbey and Caerlaverock Castle. At the center of the route is Galloway Forest Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, camping, and horseback riding, and is even well-known for stargazing.

North Coast 500

One of Scotland's most epic roadway adventures can be found on the North Coast 500, which loops around the northern part of the country from Inverness. It includes the rocky coastline of Caithness, the castles of Sutherland, and the lochs of Wester Ross. It's a route for serious road-trippers, especially since many of the roads are small and require some precision driving (which may be why it's known as "Scotland's Route 66"). Give yourself a week, at least, to explore the different regions and towns, and be sure to book hotels in advance (or consider camping). Be sure to include Ardvreck Castle, Dunrobin Castle, and Smoo Cave on your itinerary.

Borders Historic Route

Antonel / Getty Images 

Explore the Scottish Borders region with a drive around the area, found south of Edinburgh and Glasgow. There are many historical sites to discover along the way, from Abbotsford, the former home of Sir Walter Scott, to the National Mining Museum of Scotland. Start your journey in Edinburgh and follow the route, which extends for 89 miles south. Don't miss Melrose, the home of Melrose Abbey, and consider stopping off at several small towns along the way. The route can take as long or as short as you prefer, but consider making it into a full weekend before it comes to end outside Carlisle.

Argyll Coastal Route

Cavan Images / Getty Images

Pick the Argyll Coastal Route if you want to stay close to the water and see some of Scotland's most beautiful sights. The official route runs from Tarbet to Fort William over 129 miles, passing along Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, through Inveraray and into Glencoe, where you can spot Ben Nevis. It's a windy, remote drive, with lots of opportunities to get out and walk along the beach, and it's best done over several days at a leisurely pace. Plan to spend a few nights in Glencoe at the end, especially if you're into hiking and camping.

The Malt Whisky Trail

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Eight malt whisky distilleries make up Scotland's Malt Whisky Trail , a route that can be found in the Highlands. The trail takes visitors through the Moray Speyside region and is best accessed from either Aberdeen or Inverness. A drive to all of the distilleries spans about 70 miles, so give yourself a few days to fully experience everything, from Glenlivet to Craigellachie to Glenfiddich. It's not all about the booze, either: the Trail also is great for seeing small towns, historical sites, and beautiful countryside. Be sure to drive responsibly when tasting the whisky.

Royal Deeside Tourist Route

Ossiridian / Getty Images

The Royal Deeside Tourist Route runs from Perth to Aberdeen via the southwestern region of the scenic Cairngorms National Park. The route, which stretches 108 miles, also includes Blairgowrie and the Royal Lochnagar Distillery, which is located within the park. This is a good choice for visitors who want to see the Cairngorms, as well as several of Scotland's cities, and can be easily paired with a visit to Edinburgh or Glasgow (where you'll likely fly in and out of). Be sure to stay in the park at least one night, whether it's in a camper van, campsite or hotel.

Highland Tourist Route

 Chris Crafter / Getty Images

Cross the eastern part of the Scottish Highlands with the Highland Tourist Route, a 116-mile trek that takes visitors through Cairngorms National Park. Kick things off in Aberdeen and then drive west towards Inverness, passing by destinations like Culloden Battlefield, the Glenlivet Distillery and Cawdor Castle, which has ties to Shakespeare's "Macbeth." This route is a good way to get a sense of the Highlands and Cairngorms without committing to a long drive, making it a great pick for families. Consider stopping off in the national park to camp for a few days and don't miss Loch Ness, located near Inverness, at the tail end of the journey.

Fife Coastal Route

Courtesy of St. Andrews Links

Those who don't want to venture too far from Edinburgh or who are looking for a quick weekend getaway should consider the Fife Coastal Trail, which includes St. Andrews. Head north from Edinburgh to explore the towns around the northern edge the Firth of Forth, including Buckhaven and Crail. The route continues past St. Andrews up to Dundee, offering opportunities to see historic sights like Aberdour Castle and Dunfermline Palace & Abbey, as well as St. Andrews Links. The official route is 77 miles long, but travelers should opt to do it in two days to fully experience everything.

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10 MOST SCENIC Drives in Scotland (Map + Tips + Photos)

Last updated on November 21, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Planning a vacation in Scotland?  A road trip is the absolute best way to see what the country has to offer. The best driving roads take you to mountains, valleys, lochs, coasts, castles, abbeys… Below is my selection of the 10 most scenic drives in Scotland with practical information, best stops and maps to help you plan your trip.

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Scotland:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Scotland: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Seal spotting on Loch Linnhe from Fort William

My favorite excursion from Edinburgh: Glenfinnan and Glencoe

My favorite places to stay:

• Edinburgh: see best rated hotels – e.g. Balmoral Hotel
• Glencoe: see best rated hotels – e.g. The Glencoe House Hotel
• Portree: see best rated hotels – e.g. The Cuillin Hills Hotel
• Inverness: see best rated hotels – e.g. Kingsmills Hotel

10 Most scenic drives in Scotland – Map & Overview

About the selection.

To be honest, I think it is beautiful to drive almost everywhere in Scotland. I am only bored when it is very foggy. In this article, rather than listing the long touristic circuits created by VisitScotland, I have decided to focus on the most scenic portions of roads I have enjoyed.

The 10 best drives in Scotland – Map & List

• Glen Coe on A82
• The Road to the Isles – A830 
• Road to Skye through Glen Shiel – A87
• Wester Ross coastal road – A832 
• Trotternish peninsula (Isle of Skye)
• Drumbeg Loop B869 
• Loop around the Trossachs
• The Borders Countryside & Abbeys
• Old Military Road in Cairngorms National Park

Below is a map to help you get oriented and see which ones you could enjoy during your holidays:

Is driving in Scotland difficult?

You can read a lot about people complaining about the difficulty of driving in Scotland. In my opinion, it is not as bad as they say. But people who had no issues don’t write comments… There are 2 main difficulties:

• Driving on the left-hand side (if it is not the case in your home country). It is not that hard. You just have to be focused when exiting a parking space.
• The single lane roads that are very touristy – single lane roads in general are not that complex, there are frequent crossing-places. The problems are that tourists just keep going and then pile up at those crossing places blocking the road. Always look ahead to see if there is enough space.

If you want to see what it looks like, head to my article about driving in Scotland and watch my video .

Driving Times

Below is a map to give you a general idea of the driving times between the main towns in Scotland. These times are calculated using the main roads. When you look at driving times on Map apps, always plan longer because:

• You will want to stop everywhere
• Single-lane tracks take longer when there are many cars piling at passing places

Best time to enjoy those most scenic drives in Scotland

For a worry-free drive, April to October are the best months for 4 reasons:

• Most attractions are open,
• The roads are in good conditions – no snow or ice,
• Weather is not freezing anymore (but remember it can be unpredictable),
• Days are longer for exploring and driving around.

However, June to September are also the most crowded (especially if you plan on visiting the Isle of Skye). May is my favorite month. And the autumn colors in the Highlands can be great for photography.

Planning a road trip in Scotland

Next, I will give you more details about each of the best driving roads in Scotland I listed. But if you are organizing a whole road trip in Scotland, my travel guide eBook includes all my favorite spots and roads. It helps you easily plan your road trip around Scotland :

Plan your dream trip in Scotland thanks to my guide

• 15 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 170+ pre-selected locations
• GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
• Tips to make the most of your time
• 170+ original photos to help you choose

Need to rent a car in Scotland?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:  Discovercars.com  – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Choose the car and company you prefer (prefer a  compact car for the single-lane roads)
• Consider their full coverage option – I always take it for peace of mind! 
• Book early  to have a large choice of vehicles!

See my  36 tips about renting a car in Scotland

#1 – Glen Coe on A82 –  B est drive in Scotland

In my opinion this is a MUST-DRIVE in Scotland. Glen Coe is one of the most magnificent valleys in Scotland, with lochs and mountains. Typical Highlands. Plus, it is very easy to drive with large carparks to stop and enjoy the views or go for a walk.

• Section of A82
• Starts in Bridge of Orchy 
• Ends in Village of Glencoe
• Length – 24 miles – 39 km
• Road type – one lane in both directions – Moderate to higher speed (Motorhome / Campervan OK)
• To get there – Edinburgh to Glencoe Village = 3h drive

How long to plan

• Time to drive – From Bridge of Orchy to Glencoe, the road takes 30min if you are not stopping
• Time to plan – You should plan half a day if you are not doing any walks.
• If combining with Glen Etive (see #7) and the tour of Loch Leven , then plan a complete day

Best stops / places to see

• Buachaille Etive Mor , the most photographed mountain in Scotland 
• Etive Beag Carpark with some of the best views on the drive
• The Meeting of the 3 waters waterfall
• The 3 Sisters viewpoint
• The Loch Atriochtan, which is often overlooked but that I love, because the valley is narrow there
• The Glencoe visitor center
• Learn more on my article about the drive through Glencoe

Where to stay

• Option 1 – stay at the end of the road in the small town of Glencoe –  see accommodation options
• Option 2 – or enjoy the tour of Loch Leven and enjoy the small village of Kinlochleven nested in the mountains – see accommodation options
• Option 3 – keep driving to the main town of Fort William before starting another drive (such as #2 or #3) – see best rated accommodations

Map of the drive

And below is a map to get your oriented:

#2 – The Road to the Isles A830 – Scenic drive from Fort William

The Road to the Isles is another classic Scottish drive. It gives you a snapshot of everything the country has to offer: Mountain peaks, freshwater lochs, sea-water lochs, white sand beaches, views of islands…

• Starts in Fort William
• Ends in Mallaig
• Length – 43 miles – 69km
• Road type – one lane in each direction, no difficulty (Motorhome / Campervan OK)
• To get there – Edinburgh to Fort William = 3h30 drive
• Time to drive – 1h each way
• Time to plan – half a day if not spending much time at the beaches to a day to explore more in depth each stop

• View of Ben Nevis, highest summit in Scotland
• The Neptune’s Staircase with the 8 lochs for the boats to transfer to / from the Caledonian Canal
• Glenfinnan with views of the monument, the loch and the viaduct
• Lochs Eilt, Ailort and Nan Uamh
• The Coastal route with beaches between Arisaig and Mallaig
• From Mallaig you can take a ferry to the Isle of Skye
• Learn more on my article about the Road to the Isles
• At the beginning of the drive in Fort William, if you want a larger town – Check out the best rated accommodations in Fort William
• If you plan on taking the ferry early morning, it is best to stay in Mallaig – Check out the best rated accommodations in Mallaig
• You can stay near the beaches – Check out the best rated accommodations in Arisaig
• Or for more mountain views in a wilder area, choose Glenfinnan –  see the few accommodation options

#3 – Road to Skye via Glen Shiel on A87 – best driving route

There are 2 ways to reach the isle of Skye: either drive to Mallaig (#2) and take the ferry or drive to the Skye bridge and cross on to the island. I think it is worth it to drive all the way to the bridge and enjoy the beauty of Glen Shiel, especially when it narrows with high summits on each side.

• Mainland section of Road A87
• Starts in Invergarry
• Ends at the Skye Bridge (A87 continues on the Isle of Skye all the way to Portree and Uig)
• Length – 37mi – 60km
• To get there – Edinburgh to Invergarry = 3h15 drive
• Time to drive – 1 hour
• Time to plan – 2 hours or longer if you visit the Eilean Donan Castle

• Loch Cluanie
• Glen Shiel and the Five Sisters of Kintail
• Loch Duich and Eilean Donan Castle
• Loch Alsh and the Skye Bridge
• Learn more on my article about the Road to Skye
• Stay at the West end of Glen Shiel in the town of Invershiel – See few accommodation options in the area
• Or decide to stay in Dornie, near Eilean Donan Castle – See accommodations options
• And at the end of A87 you reach Portree on the island – See the best rated accommodations in Portree

#4 – Wester Ross coastal road on A832 (part of North Coast 500)

The North Coast 500 road is a big loop around the North Coast of Scotland, starting above the Isle of Skye. My favorite part of the loop is the drive through Wester Ross with Loch Maree and beautiful coastal sceneries.

• Roads A890 (alternative A896) and A832
• Starts in Locharron
• Ends in Ullapool
• Length – 106 miles – 171 km
• Road type – one lane in each direction, no difficulty (Motorhome / Campervan OK) –  but if driving the alternative, A896 is a single-lane road.
• To get there – Edinburgh to Locharron = 4h20 drive
• Time to drive – 2h30
• Time to plan – Plan a day to enjoy the views and the villages

• Loch Carron
• Loch A-Chroisg
• Poolewe village nad Loch Ewe
• Falls of Measach
• Learn more on my article about Wester Ross
• Ullapool is a great place to stop before continuing on to the North coast –  Check out accommodations in Ullapool
• However, if you want to stop in the heart of Wester Ross, the coastal town of Poolewe is a great choice with a charming atmosphere –  check out accommodation options

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#5 – Trotternish Peninsula on the Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is one of the most famous destinations in Scotland . The whole island is worth driving but if I have to pick one section, it would be the Trotternish Peninsula, north of Portree home of many fascinating and iconic attractions.

• Starts in Portree
• Ends in Portree
• Length – 55 miles – 89km (via northern Road + small detour to Quiraing + small detour to Fairy Glen)
• Road type – mix of dual and single-lane roads
• To get there – Edinburgh to Portree = 5h drive
• Time to drive – 1h40 drive
• Time to plan – half a day without hiking or 1 day if hiking

• Old Man of Storr
• Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
• Short detour to Quiraing
• Loch Langaig
• Museum of Island life
• Short detour to Fairy Glen
• Learn more on my article about the Isle of Skye

Portree is the most central town to explore the whole island – check out the best rated accommodations in Portree

On the map below you can see the Trotternish Peninsula, North of Portree with the locations of 2 of its attractions:

Complete Maps with all my favorite stops available in my Travel Guide eBook:

#6 – Drumbeg Loop B869 – Best driving road in Scotland (twisted)

This was a surprise. This road is not often mentioned but I really enjoyed it as it was quite different from the rest of the Northern drive. North of Ullapool you can enjoy a coastal detour with pink beaches, rolling hills, mini lochs and wildlife.

• The main road A894 goes straight North from Loch Assynt. But take the detour on B869
• Starts at Loch Assynt
• Ends in Newton
• Length – 32 miles – 51km
• Road type – single-lane road / careful wild animals cross the road
• To get there – Edinburgh to Ullapool = 4h10 drive
• Time to drive – 1h 15 drive
• Time to plan – 2h to enjoy the drive and admire the beaches

• Just drive and enjoy the change in scenery
• Stop and look at the quiet beaches
• Learn more on my article about the Coigach-Assynt Reserve

Check out the accommodations in the area

#7 – Side road through Glen Etive

Glen Etive is a wild road on the side of Glen Coe. It takes you along the river all the way to Loch Etive. It offers beautiful views along a narrow valley and leads to a stunning wild loch… what more could we ask? Plus, for the fans of James Bond, you might recognize a location from Skyfall.

• Dead end road
• Starts at the junction with A82 facing the mountain Buachaille Etive Mor
• Ends at Loch Etive (village of Gualachulain)
• Length – 12 miles – 19km
• Road type – single-lane road (can be crowded in Summer).
• To get there – Edinburgh to Glencoe = 2h45 drive
• Time to drive – 35min non-stop
• Time to plan – Plan 1 hour each way to drive Glen Etive + And as long as you want to explore Loch Etive on foot or by boat (if you travel with one…)

• Just enjoy the drive
• Take some time to walk along Loch Etive
• Learn more on my article about Glen Etive

This is a rather wild area. Not many constructions. Stay at the small town of Glencoe that is not far – see accommodation options

Below is a map to help you locate the road in Glen Etive:

#8 – Loop around the Trossachs National Park – typical Scotland road trip

It is not as magnificent as the rest of the Highlands, in my opinion, but it is a great loop road that is close to Glasgow and Edinburgh and offers lochs, mountain passes and a waterfall. Locals enjoy this area a lot.

• Mix of roads around the National Park
• Starts in Balloch, South of Loch Lomond
• Ends in Balloch
• Length – 119mi – 191km
• Road type – one lane in each direction, no difficulty, some narrow sections (Motorhome / Campervan OK)
• To get there – Edinburgh to Balloch = 1h30 drive
• To get there – Glasgow to Balloch = 40min drive
• Time to drive – 3h drive
• Time to plan – One day to also include a cruise either on Loch Katrine or Loch Lomond

• Loch Lomond, its villages and viewpoints – see article
• Loch Katrine and the Sir Walter Scott steamboat – see article
• Many other lochs
• Duke’s Pass
• Falls of Falloch – see article

Check out all the accommodation options around Loch Lomond

#9 – Borders Countryside & Abbeys

If you are tired of all those beautiful mountains and want a change of scenery, head south of Edinburgh. Most articles list the Borders Historic Route. Although I agree with the overall direction of the drive, I have stronger preferences for other stops and those listed on it: the Abbeys and countryside views.

• A68 + Detours
• Starts in Edinburgh
• Ends in Jedburgh
• Length – 65 miles – 105km
• Road type – one lane in each direction, no difficulty unless you take side roads to explore (Motorhome / Campervan OK)
• Time to drive – 2h drive
• Time to plan – A day to include the visits to the abbeys

• Melrose Abbey and its bagpipe-playing pig – see article
• Scott’s view – the picture-perfect countryside – see article
• The impressive Jedburgh Abbey – see article
• Kelso Abbey
• And many other potential stops
• You can easily visit the abbey on a day trip from Edinburgh – Check out the best rated accommodations in Edinburgh
• But if you want to stay in a quieter area, the towns of Melrose or Jedburgh are great options – check out the best rated accommodations in Melrose  and  more in Jedburgh

#10 – Old Military Road in Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park is a favorite for the locals. The wild area offers mountains, plateaus, valleys and castles. This is where you can find the Balmoral Castle, the Royal Summer residence. There are 2 roads going through it, but the Old Military Road is my favorite for a nice leisure drive.

• A939 and A93
• Starts in Speybridge (North of Cairngorms National Park)
• Ends in Dalrulzian (South of Cairngorms National Park)
• Length – 68 miles – 110km
• Road type – one lane in each direction almost all of the time but there is a single lane bridge that is very narrow.
• To get there – Edinburgh to Dalrulzian = 1h40 drive
• Time to drive – 2h drive when not stopping
• Time to plan – Half a day if simply stopping for the views or a day if you are visiting Balmoral Castle and / or Braemar Castle

• Well of Lecht and ski area
• The plateau
• Gairnshiel and its bridge
• Balmoral Castle and its garden
• Braemar Castle with its L-shape structure
• Learn more on my article about the Old Military Road in Cairngorms
• You can stay in a valley around the castles – Check out the best rated accommodations around Braemar
• Or around the Lecht Ski center – check out options
• Or you can stay in Aviemore before or after driving the Old Military Road  – Check out the best rated accommodations in Aviemore

And many other roads to consider:

• South West Coastal 300 with Caerlaverock Castle
• Argyll coastal route
• North Coast

Want to see more of the best Scotland has to offer?

• Most beautiful landscapes in Scotland – read article
• Best things to do in Scotland – read article
• Best Scotland destinations – where to go? – read article
• Best Scottish Castles – read article
• Most beautiful lochs in Scotland – read article
• The magnificent Isle of Skye –  read my best-of guide
• The magnificent Wester Ross region –  read article
• The Borders Abbeys including  Melrose Abbey  and the photogenic  Jedburgh Abbey

Planning a trip to Scotland?  

Check out my travel guides to help you plan:

Plan your dream trip to Scotland with my guides!

• 15 easy-to-plan maps
• GPS coordinates 
• Useful planning tips
• 170+ large photos 

• 8 easy-to-plan maps
• 60+ pre-selected locations
• 115+ large photos 

And keep track of your own trip!

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10 alternative Scottish road trips to the North Coast 500

Off-the-beaten-track driving routes for an incredible break in Scotland

The North Coast 500 is one of the most popular road trips in the UK – and with 516-miles of spectacular shorelines, historic castles, windswept coastal towns and remote villages, it’s not hard to see the appeal.

It's becoming increasingly popular too – especially following a post-Covid boom in visitor numbers – with thousands now flocking every year to travel Scotland's 'most iconic route'.

However, there are a number of other off-the-beaten-track driving routes for an incredible break in Scotland.

In fact, a list of 10 alternative routes to the NC 500 has been put together by Four Seasons Campers, which offer customers a variety of unique road tours around Scotland.

The below road trips also guarantee an awe-inspiring experience – simply without the tourists that the NC 500 typically attracts. So you can enjoy a Scottish break packed with hidden gems and away from the crowds.

Spiritual Journey to the Atlantic

Explore castles, stone circles and beaches on this tour around Mull, Iona and Ardnamurchan, as you travel to the most westerly point on the UK mainland.

Liz Mackenzie, the owner of Four Seasons Campers, explains: “Take in Ardnamurchan Lighthouse and the beautiful white sands of Sanna Bay on the UK's most westerly mainland point, before taking the short ferry journey to the pretty coloured houses of Tobermory on Mull – where you can enjoy a dram of whisky at Tobermory Distillery as you watch the yachts enter the harbour.

"Drive north to the stunning Glass barn for some cheese sampling at Isle of Mull Cheese and onwards to Calgary Bay & the Art in Nature Sculpture Trail. Loop south and get the ferry to beautiful Iona with its bright white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water before porpoise spotting on the ferry back to the mainland."

Misty Mountain Trail

With a mix of dramatic landscapes, thrilling mountains and valley passes, this tour takes in Glencoe, Applecross and Loch Ness.

Liz says: “From the mystical valley of Glencoe, head north and past the impressive 5 Sisters of Kintail mountains, then over the infamous Bealach na Ba pass and Applecross, through mountainous Torridon and along Loch Maree to Garioch, then east towards the farmlands of Beauly and the remote Loch Affric Glen – home to ancient pinewoods and the rare Scottish wildcat. Loop south down by Loch Ness and back into the spectacular Nevis range of mountains for sighting or a hike of the UK's tallest mountain Ben Nevis."

East Coast Castle Trail

Featuring Scotland’s more rugged and remote landscapes, this road trip also takes in beautiful rural Perthshire before heading north to the pretty highland village of Braemar and the epic castles of Royal Deeside.

Liz adds: “Visit the pretty Perthshire village of Dunkeld with its stunning Gothic and Romanesque Cathedral before heading north through the rugged Cairngorm National Park and over the Spittal of Glenshee to reach the highland village of Braemar – best-known for its royal Highland Games. Meander along the river Dee passing a cluster of Castles including Balmoral, and the pretty traditional highland villages of Royal Deeside, before reaching the iconic Dunnottar Castle, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the sea.

"Then loop back down to Scone Palace, one of Scotland’s most important historical sites and the crowning place of Scottish Kings."

Windswept Whisky Wonderland

This road trip takes you through the dreamy Mull of Kintyre and across the Atlantic to the pretty Inner Hebridean island of Islay – known mostly for its nine whisky distilleries and numerous golf courses. The unique micro-climate makes it a great off-season destination and a bird watcher's haven for sightings of Choughs, Eagles Hen Harriers and Osprey.

“Head west from Loch Lomond around the Argyll coast and enjoy what’s known as 'Britain’s most beautiful shortcut' with a walk or cycle along the Crinan Canal at the top of the Mull of Kintyre," Liz continues.

“Head south down the Kintyre peninsula with panoramic views over the Irish Sea. Then take the ferry to the Inner Hebridean island of Islay known as 'The Queen of the Hebrides' and hire some bikes to tour the distilleries and enjoy some whisky tasting and five star dining at one of the many restaurants."

Scotland in Miniature

Easily accessible and loved by locals who swarm here to their holiday homes every year, the beautiful island of Arran has incredible coastal views and is a foodie’s haven. A short ferry to the north onto the Mull of Kintyre completes a satisfying mini tour of this tranquil area of Scotland, Liz explains.

This tour takes you to the beautiful and easily accessible island of Arran with its golf courses, miniature mountains, array of Scottish produce and safe beaches.

Liz adds: “Take a gastro tour around the island and visit The Arran Chocolate Factory, Isle of Arran Cheeses, Blackwater Bakehouse, or head along to The Arran Butcher for some wild boar produce. And for your best friend try the Arran Dog Bakery for some healthy dog treats.

"Head to the north of the island to Lamlash and take the short ferry crossing over to the little known village of Skipness on the east coast of the Mull of Kintyre with its beautifully preserved 13th century castle overlooking Arran.”

Road to the Isles

This route takes you west along Scotland’s Road to the Isles and across to the Outer Hebrides , looping down from South Uist to the beautiful island of Vatersay. A beach lover’s dream, you’ll feel like you’ve found paradise as you meander over connecting causeways over the aquamarine ocean past stunning white beaches .

Liz explains: “Beginning along the aptly named Road to the Isles that runs between Fort William and Mallaig, this awesome road route takes in the stunning white beaches of Arisaig with views to the Small Isle of Eigg, Muck, Rum and Canna as well as the iconic Glenfinnan viaduct made famous in Harry Potter.

“On reaching the pretty fishing village of Mallaig, depart on the ferry to the Outer Hebridean Island of South Uist. Drive south through the Uists and the causeways connecting land, lochs and machair making it ideal for wildlife spotting. Catch the ferry to Barra and watch the planes land on the beach before touring south through the rugged hills of Barra to the stunning beaches of Vatersay island – paradise on earth."

Outer Hebridean Odessey

This route passes through the popular island of Skye with its dramatic Cuillin mountain ranges and crosses over to the northerly Outer Hebridean islands of Harris and Lewis – with its rich cultural heritage and archaeological trail.

Tour through the popular island of Skye, taking in well-loved walks at the Quiraing and Neist Point, followed by the short crossing to the most northerly Outer Hebridean islands of Harris and Lewis, recommends Liz.

She says: “Explore these stunning islands visiting the weavers of Harris and their famous gin distillery. Take time to explore the abundance of magical white sandy beaches stretching mile after mile. Then head north and back in time into Lewis and the incredible Callanish Stones and Blackhouse Village. Enjoy whale spotting as you cross back down to the mainland at Ullapool and stop for some seafood at the Seafood Shack.”

Victorian explorers

Taking you back in in time, this route starts at the pretty Victorian tourist town of Pitlochry and winds it way west to Rannoch Station – where you can feast on tearoom treats as you gaze out onto the wilderness and the old West Highland Line that is still in use today.

Liz explains that this route starts at Loch Rannoch and Rannoch Station, one of the UK's remotest railway stations, which looks out upon the vast expanse of wilderness that is Rannoch Moor. Continuing north, it takes you through the popular Victorian town of Pitlochry, with its incredible dam and fish ladder, before heading north through Aviemore and the Cairngorm National Park rich in stunning lochans, mountain streams and Caledonian pine forests perfect for cycling or walking through.

Dolphin trail

The best place in Scotland to spot dolphins, this road route takes you round the Black Isle north of Inverness and along the warm waters of the Moray Firth before heading down through the Cairngorms national park .

Liz says: “The Black Isle and Moray Firth benefit from a unique micro-climate sheltered by Cairngorm mountains and Atlantic storms. Amazing for dolphin spotting, this route also includes some beautiful coastal towns and pretty fishing villages as well as endless pebbled beaches. For whisky lovers and whisky newbies, the Speyside area to the south is the perfect place to take a distillery tour or tasting with over 50 distilleries”

The Road Less Travelled

This route takes you an alternative way to Scotland’s most travelled one, over to Skye and takes a detour down to beautiful Glenelg and Loch Hourn before heading north over the ancient turn-style ferry to Skye.

Known for its rugged beauty, this alternative route to Skye travels through the mountains of Kintail then heads south of the Skye Bridge and takes you over the beautiful steep mountain pass to Glenelg with stunning views across Kyle of Lochalsh.

Liz recommends: “Enjoy a BBQ on the beach overlooking Skye at Glenelg and take a detour south past the beautifully preserved Glenelg Brochs to remote Loch Hourn, which looks out to the remote Knoydart peninsula.

"Finally, take the short ferry ride to Kylerhea on Skye on the ancient turn-style ferry as you watch the seals frolic in the rapids.”

20 of the most glorious sandy beaches in the UK

Holkham Beach, Norfolk

The salt marsh, sand dunes, pine woodland, sandy beach and grazing marsh that make up Holkham is a National Nature Reserve – best known for its stunning panoramic views and varied wildlife.

Where to stay: The perfectly polished Victoria Inn has 20 rooms with a posh contemporary-cottage feel. Stroll through the walled rose gardens, feast on the restaurant's fresh shellfish and walk the few minutes to the golden sands of the beach.

Porthcurno, Cornwall

With soft white sand and turquoise sea, this west Cornwall beach is practically paradise. What's more, it's set beneath the world-famous Minack Theatre – perched high on the cliffs above.

Where to stay: Situated on the westerly point of Cornwall, Land's End Hotel sits upon Granite Cliffs overlooking the Longships Lighthouse and Atlantic Ocean. A restaurant serving local specialities is available on site, as well as a bar. The centre of Sennen is just a mile from the hotel.

Saunton Sands, North Devon

These three miles of stunning golden sand, between the villages of Braunton and Croyde, are host to some of the UK's best surf. Popular with families too, this is a fantastic swimming spot backed by the Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Where to stay: On a cliff top overlooking Braunton Burrows, The Saunton Sands Hotel features a spa, two swimming pools and a well-known restaurant. With views of Saunton Beach, its elegant rooms have a modern feel, the restaurant offers formal dining and a seasonal menu, and the casual Beachside Grill has wonderful views.

Studland Beach, Dorset

Studland is a four-mile stretch of sandy beach and heathland off the Isle of Purbeck. Here you can take part in some adrenaline-fuelled watersports, walk through woodland or simply gaze across the sea towards the Isle of Wight.

Where to stay: Knoll House is a hotel in Studland that boasts a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and tennis court. From the sea views to the hot tub, this small hotel makes a quaint base for a staycation of exploring.

Blackpool Sands, South Devon

Not to be confused with the other Blackpool, this South Devon beach has a turquoise blue sea and is set in a sheltered bay, surrounded by evergreens. Here you can hire a kayak or paddleboard and swimming in stunning clean water.

Where to stay: With a magnificent location, looking out over the harbour and the River Dart, right in the heart of Dartmouth, the 17th-century building of The Royal Castle Hotel offers bright, airy rooms, and a stylish restaurant.

Crantock Beach, Cornwall

Great for sandcastles and surfing alike, this expanse of golden sand, backed by dunes, sits at the Mouth of the Gannel estuary and is presided over by the National Trust. For far reaching views, follow the South West Coast Path.

Where to stay: Boasting a spa bath, Sunnyside Cottage , set in Crantock, features three bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen and a garden with a barbecue.

Summerleaze, Cornwall

One of Bude’s best-loved beaches, Summerleaze offers a thoroughly British seaside scene for a sandy beach holiday. At low tide a paddling pool emerges, as does an expanse of golden sand for walks along the coast.

Where to stay: The Beach balances style and charm with slick contemporary rooms and a traditional Victorian terrace overlooking Summerleaze beach. The restaurant showcases the best of Cornish produce, while the beach bar comes to life with live music on Sunday afternoons.

Botany Bay, Kent

Budding geologers will appreciate the chalk stacks and white cliffs of Botany Bay – a beach famed for its fossil hunting and rock pools. Smugglers were once rife here, however now you're more likely to see people relaxing on this sandy UK beach.

Where to stay: Boasting picturesque views of the English Channel and the North Sea, the charming Botany Bay Hotel enjoys an elevated position on the cliff tops in Kingsgate, near Broadstairs.

Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland

Perched proudly on a grassy hill above the sands of Bamburgh is one of the country's most iconic castles. To the other side are the world famous Farne Islands – so you won't be short of things to see on this sandy beach in Northumberland .

Where to stay: In the charming village of Bamburgh, The Sunningdale is just five minutes walk from a magnificent castle and scenic coastline. It offers a restaurant that uses local produce and bright rooms, many of which enjoy splendid views of Bamburgh Castle, the village or local farmland.

Watergate Bay, Newquay

One of Cornwall's best-known beaches, Watergate Bay is a popular surf spot but is also home to many different sporting events including the English National Surfing Competition .

Where to stay: Set just 200 yards from the beach, Beachcombers Apartments provide modern self-catered accommodation just four miles from lively Newquay. A 10 mile drive through scenic countryside brings guests to Padstow’s pretty harbour.

West Wittering, West Sussex

The whole of this sandy beach is accessible to dogs from the end of September to the beginning of May. At other times, all zones are open except between groynes 14A and 18, the area in front of the beach huts. It's a great place to take the dogs to stretch their legs – and yours. A family-friendly spot with gorgeous sand, this is one to sink your toes in.

Where to stay: Set in West Wittering, Willow House B&B has a terrace and garden views and offers guests a charming welcome and down-to-earth accommodation just a few miles from the sea.

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire

A spectacular beach in Wales, Barafundle Bay caught everyone's attention when it was named one of the best beaches in the world. You can reach it by walking a scenic half-mile route from Stackpole Quay and once you land on the sandy beach, you'll find turquoise water. The crescent of sheltered cove is ideal for swimming, while the Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers plenty for walkers.

Where to stay: At sunset, the Ferry House Inn and its shore-side location are bathed in a golden glow that will set the tone for your stay here. There's a cosy bar and seasonal restaurant on site.

Whitby Sands, North Yorkshire

Just a few minutes’ walk from the town of Whitby itself, Whitby Sands is perfect for sandy beach fans, with bright beach huts and sandcastle-building opportunities in sprawling supply. Fish and chips on the beach is a must here too - the battered cod at Magpie Cafe is so good that you'll often fins queues all along the street.

Where to stay: Just 10-minutes walk from Whitby Sands itself, Bagdale Hall & Annexe is an atmospheric Georgian townhouse with easy access to the North York Moors National Park.

Scarista Beach, Isle of Harris

One of the most impressive beaches in the Hebrides , even on a cloudy day Scarista Beach will take your breath away. This sandy beach is simply spectacular when the sun appears, with its flour-soft sand and turquoise water. While it's a remote one, you'll find some top foodie trips nearby.

Where to stay: With its own sun terrace and garden, Harris White Cottage in the Isle of Harris region occupies a beachfront location second-to-none.

Durdle Door, Dorset

Around 10,000 years ago, water broke through a stack of rocks on the Jurassic Coast and started to create one of the most incredible formations in the UK. Today, Durdle Door is an iconic archway with a sandy beach that you'll find on many postcards of Britain.

Where to stay: Lulworth Lodge , just a five-minute walk from Lulworth Cove, is a coastal lodge around an eight-minute drive from Durdle Door. There are 12 stylish rooms, including two that welcome dogs. The restaurant serves up fresh local fish and the outside deck is perfect for soaking up the summer sun with some fizz.

Formby Beach, Merseyside

One of the National Trust’s fastest-changing shorelines, family-friendly Formby beach has a network of dunes which move at an alarming four metres a year. Look out to the sea for amazing views across the Irish Sea and spot some wildlife in the woodlands that back the beach, too. You might be lucky enough to see some red squirrels.

Where to stay: A 20-minute drive away from the golden sands of Formby Beach, this grade 2 listed apartment on Southport Promenade is also just 750 yards from Southport Beach. The chic three-bedroom apartment provides the perfect sanctuary to rest your salty feet.

Portstewart Strand, County Londonderry

In between the mouth of the River Bann and Portstewart are rolling dunes and pristine sands. And designated drivers rejoice: the two-mile stretch is one of the last places in Ireland where cars are still allowed to drive straight onto the beach. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s incredibly popular with families who want to picnic on the shores.

Where to stay: Situated on the stunning coast of North Antrim in the seaside town of Portstewart, Me & Mrs Jones Hotel offers a boutique restaurant & bar serving highly renowned dishes and drinks for all tastes.

Rhossili Bay, Gower Peninsula

Remote Rhossili Bay has a long list of accolades and has been named the ‘best beach in Europe’ and ‘top ten beaches in the world’. One visit here and it’s easy to see why it's an award-winning sandy beach. The steep, winding walk down to the coast from Rhossili village is stunning, with panoramic views over three miles of golden sand, and on clear days, to the coastline of North Devon.

Where to stay: Featuring sea views, Creek Cottage sleeps four and provides the perfect base for your next sandy beach break. Enjoy a fully-equipped kitchen, dining room and cosy living room, where you can spread out and relax after a day building sandcastles.

Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris

Visit Luskentyre out of season and you might be lucky enough to have this bright-white sandy beach all to yourself. A short drive north of Scarista, it's one of Harris’s biggest beaches, attracting seaside lovers to relax on the sand and soak up the Caribbean-like views.

Where to stay: Kirklea Island Suites is situated in Tarbert and offers self-contained units each featuring a patio, seating area, kitchen and coffee machine. Don't fancy cooking? There's an on-site restaurant that serves lunch and dinner, too.

Compton Bay, Isle of Wight

Compton Bay on the southwest of the island is popular with families, surfers and dog walkers, as everyone is welcome on the beach between Hanover Point and Brook Chine. Rising behind the coast, there are walking opportunities across acres of open downland, with stunning views out to sea from this sandy UK beach.

Where to stay: Villa Rothsay Hotel in Cowes is a boutique hotel housed in a Victorian villa. It offers views of the Solent, a comfortable drawing room and an honesty bar with Isle of Wight gin and tonic.

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