Scotland trip ideas

Wherever you travel in Scotland, you are never far from ancient castles, panoramic scenery and fascinating attractions you can find only in Scotland. Read on to find regional trip ideas to help you plan your next unforgettable holiday.

Get to know the east of Scotland 

For a real flavour of Scotland, plan a trip along the east coast. Relax to the sound of waves lapping against fishing boats in the East Neuk of Fife, see the granite buildings of Aberdeen twinkle in the sunlight and let a sip of whisky warm you from head to toe at one of our oldest distilleries. The journey home takes you through the Cairngorms National Park and past picturesque towns like Braemar and Pitlochry that might just make you want to stay a little bit longer

Spend seven days on the east coast of Scotland

Journey through the west of Scotland 

The west of Scotland is bursting with culture and history. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Glasgow before heading north to the famous banks of Loch Lomond. Taste the freshest Scottish seafood in Oban, then take the ferry to Mull for a day of discoveries in the refreshing island breeze. Further south, hear the powerful roar of the Falls of Clyde and be transported to a world like no other at Crawick Multiverse.

Explore the west of Scotland in seven days

Experience the ultimate trip 

If you don’t want to miss a single thing, try our suggestion for a 14-day trip around all of Scotland’s highlights. Walk along the cobbled streets of Edinburgh's Old Town, see mighty Caerlaverock Castle reflected in the still water of its moat and listen to gentle melodies played on a lute in the royal chambers of Stirling Castle. Along the way, discover the haunting stories of the Jacobite rebellion at Glenfinnan and keep an eye on the depths below as you cross Loch Ness.  

See our ideas for the ultimate Scotland trip

Spend 72 hours in Edinburgh and enjoy big hitters and jaw-dropping locations. Uncover the secrets of the narrow closes and hidden courtyards tucked away just off the historic Royal Mile, marvel at royal luxury on board the Royal Yacht Britannia before stopping for a refreshing drink on the Shore waterfront in Leith. End the evening by climbing Calton Hill to watch the sunset soak the famous Edinburgh skyline in its golden glow. 

Get to know Edinburgh in three days

In Glasgow, wander through the magnificent free Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum and be inspired by its extraordinary art collection. Disappear into a different world full of vibrant shades of green at the Glasgow Botanic Gardens, follow in the footsteps of Batman and Frankenstein at memorable TV and film locations and feel the special buzz in the bars and restaurants of the Merchant City.  

Spend a long weekend in Glasgow

Take away the stress of planning a road trip and follow our curated suggestions to make the most of your time in Scotland. Explore rural nooks and crannies or famous spots dotted across the country, and you’re sure to make memories to last a lifetime.

North

From the wild northern coastlines of Caithness and Sutherland and the Scottish Highlands to vibrant cities and islands with a unique culture and heritage, the north of Scotland is an adventurer’s dream come true. 

• Discover the Highlands and Islands of Scotland 
• Venture North 
• Visit Cairngorms

East 

With colourful fishing villages hugging the coast of Fife, the ancient history and majestic glens of Angus and the countless castles dotted around Aberdeenshire, the east of Scotland is always worth a visit. 

• VisitAberdeenshire
• Visit Angus
• Welcome to Fife

South 

Head to the south of Scotland to uncover a region made for outdoor adventures, stargazing and fascinating deep dives into Scottish history, from the homes of literary greats to the ruins of magnificent abbeys.

• South of Scotland

Central 

Edinburgh and Glasgow are a must for anyone who loves a bustling city, but don’t miss out on the quieter gem Perth, iconic landmarks like the Kelpies, locations from your favourite films and TV shows and the welcoming towns and villages waiting just around the corner. 

• Forever Edinburgh 
• Visit Midlothian 
• Visit Falkirk 
• Visit Glasgow 
• Discover Renfrewshire 
• Perth City and Towns

West 

The west of Scotland is an area of great variety, from the beautiful Loch Lomond surrounded by majestic mountains to the wild coastline shaped by narrow sea lochs and islands that invite you to slow down and enjoy the moment.

• Argyll & The Isles
• Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park