5 Days of iconic attractions and hidden gems in Scotland

For your perfect first day in Edinburgh, there’s a mix of famous attractions and quieter corners to discover. Enjoy a fantastic view of the Edinburgh skyline, step past the thick walls of a legendary castle, get a glimpse of what life in the city was like centuries ago or enjoy a delicious meal by the coast.

• Calton Hill – follow the steps up to the top of this hill and watch as the whole city unfolds around you. Spot key landmarks like Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh Castle and the Three Bridges or find a bench to sit down and soak up the views of the coast of Fife across the Firth of Forth and the Pentland Hills to the south.
• Gladstone’s Land – situated on the Royal Mile, dive into 17th-century life inside a classic tenement building. Step carefully on creaking floorboards as you explore three floors that have been lovingly restored, keeping the original painted ceilings from 1620 intact. Take a break on the ground floor and choose from a variety of delights in the ice cream parlour and café. 
• Edinburgh Castle – take in the views across the city and learn about the dramatic events which have played out between these ancient walls. Wander through great halls, royal chambers and chilling dungeons before enjoying a moment of hushed silence in the presence of the majestic Honours of Scotland, Scotland’s crown jewels. This is one of the most popular attractions in Edinburgh, so we recommend booking your tickets far in advance for guaranteed entry. 
• South Queensferry – the seaside neighbourhood of South Queensferry is a lovely place to spend your day. Walk a section of the Shore Walk to discover hidden beaches or pop into the charming shops lining the town’s cobbled street. In the evening, sit back and relax at one of the waterfront pubs in the shadow of the Forth Bridges and watch the sunset colour the magnificent Forth Bridge an even brighter shade of red.

Today takes you deep into the historic landscapes of central Scotland. We recommend you hire a car so you can explore the sights at your own pace. Go for a beautiful walk to a fascinating castle, visit a distillery to peek behind the scenes or enjoy the adrenaline kick of a challenging mountain bike ride.

• Dollar Glen – enjoy a peaceful walk through the ancient woodlands of Dollar Glen in the shadow of the Ochil Hills. Walk through deep gorges covered in wild garlic and vibrant bluebells in spring. Follow the sounds of cascading waterfalls until you see the ruins of the stunning fortress Castle Campbell rising out of the trees.
• Bannockburn – changing Scotland’s history forever in 1314, Scotland’s great warrior king, Robert the Bruce, led Scotland to a legendary victory against King Edward II and the English army. Walk across the former battlefield to the towering statue of the famous Scottish king, proudly overlooking a place that shaped Scotland’s history like few others. Please note that the visitor centre is currently closed until mid-2028.
• Deanston Distillery – formerly a working mill right on the banks of the River Teith, it is now famous for its glorious whisky. Admire the warm glow of the beautiful copper stills on a tour before you get a taste of a few of the whiskies produced right here. Whisky connoisseurs can also join the Old & Rare Tasting to savour special whiskies you won’t get to taste anywhere else.
• Comrie Croft – hire a bike from Comrie Croft Bikes and set off along one of the custom-built trails for an adventure among the forests of Perthshire. Comrie Croft has some amazing accommodation options too, if you’d like to spend the night somewhere quirky – how about listening to hooting owls as you fall asleep in a kata tent or staying in their rustic eco-lodge hostel after an evening of roasting marshmallows over the fire pit? 

Fill your camera roll with beautiful pictures of the Scottish landscapes we know and love. From the shimmering sea lochs of the Scottish west coast to the towering peaks of Glen Coe, and a few secret spots in between, stop and get to know some of Scotland’s most famous places.

• Clyde Sea Lochs Trail – the west coast of Scotland is characterised by beautiful sea lochs stretching from the coast deep into the country. This well-signposted driving route is easy to follow and takes you into the heart of the coastal communities to the southwest of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Start the route in Dumbarton and climb over 500 steps to the top of Dumbarton Castle for unobstructed views over the River Clyde. Follow the route north along the coast to uncover charming villages like Cardross and Garelochhead and make sure to leave plenty of time to stop and enjoy the views.
• Glen Coe – driving through this deep-carved glen feels like you’re entering a secret part of Scotland. Featuring in Outlander’s opening credits as well as scenes from Harry Potter and the James Bond movie Skyfall, this glen might feel familiar, but standing in the middle of this dramatic landscape for the first time is an experience you will never forget. Pull into one of the parking spaces to absorb the atmosphere created by the impressive mountains around you before popping into the Glencoe Visitor Centre, where you can grab a bite to eat before browsing the exhibition to find out more about the history of this unique place. The village of Glencoe at the western end of the glen is also worth a visit.

The Highlands are a magical place that everyone wants to see on their visit to Scotland. Get to know one of the most well-known lochs in Scotland and dive into the history of the region before venturing eastwards to explore all Moray Speyside has to offer.

• The Loch Ness 360° Trail – this epic walking, cycling, running and outdoor activity trail loops the entire circumference of Loch Ness. Pick your favourite section, admire the loch at your own pace and make sure to always keep an eye on the water – you never know where Nessie might finally appear!
• Fort George – built in 1746, it is the mightiest artillery fortification in Britain and was used as the ultimate defence against the Jacobite rising. This impressive site is packed with cannons, muskets, pikes, swords and ammunition, offering a fascinating insight into military life in the 18th century. Let your eyes roam over the surrounding Moray Firth while you explore the fort and maybe you’ll spot dolphins playing in the water.
• Elgin – walk among the impressive ruins of Elgin Cathedral to admire the beautiful window arches and stand below the grand doorway in the west front. Afterwards, enjoy a refreshment in a welcoming pub or sit down for a meal in a local restaurant. If the weather is pleasant, go for a short drive to Hopeman or Lossiemouth to sit on the beach and listen to the waves lapping at the white sand.
• Macallan Distillery – when travelling in the Speyside whisky region, visiting a distillery is a great way to find out more about the rich whisky heritage of the area. Book an experience at the Macallan Distillery and marvel at this modern building with its sweeping, grass-covered roof and a state-of-the-art visitor centre and shop, where you can buy limited edition and new release bottles to take home.

It’s hard not to be enchanted by Scotland’s glorious east coast. Be amazed by one of the most dramatic castles in the country, go for a wander in one of our coolest cities and take your time on your way back to Edinburgh to explore the golden sands of St Andrews and the quaint fishing villages of the East Neuk.

• Dunnottar Castle – the well-preserved ruins of Dunnottar Castle are perched on mighty cliffs high above the churning North Sea. Brave the coastal breeze and step into this once impregnable fortress which has been visited by legendary historic figures including William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots and Oliver Cromwell. It is also said to have been the inspiration for the DunBroch family home in Disney Pixar’s Brave. If you’re lucky enough, you may see dolphins playing in the waves.
• V&A Dundee – the first V&A museum outside of London presents world-class examples of design, starting with the fascinating building itself. Be mesmerised by the reflection of the V&A’s unique façade in the water around it before heading inside to explore the museum’s galleries, presenting everything from architecture, fashion and furniture to video games and even healthcare. It also offers a tempting café and lovely gift shop. 
• St Andrews – take the time to roam this historic university town, taking in the castle and its infamous bottle dungeon, admiring the impressive cathedral ruins and, of course, hitting the famous West Sands beach for a bracing walk on the coast. Feeling a little parched? Make your way to Eden Mill, craft producers of both beer and gin, for a tour and tasting session. You can also visit Kingsbarns Distillery, one of the country’s newest whisky distilleries. 
• Pittenweem – this harbour town is located along the Fife Coastal Path, a picturesque long-distance walking route around the coastal towns and villages of Fife. Make your way to the pier to see colourful boats gently bobbing on the water or walk up Cove Wynd to find the tiny St Fillan’s Cave, said to have been used as a chapel by the saint in the eighth century. 
• Anstruther – visit the town’s Fisheries Museum to find out more about the history of fishing in Scotland. It’s here you can hop on board The Reaper, a Fife sailing herring drifter featured in the TV series Outlander (access is available by prior arrangement). In the spring and summer months, join a boat trip out to the Isle of May to see puffins, guillemots, Arctic terns and other seabirds breeding just off the coast or grab some famous fish and chips to enjoy in the sun with a pretty harbour view.