Frequently asked questions about Scotland

Where is Scotland and how many people live there? 

Scotland is the most northern country in the UK. We have a population of about 5,546 million (2024). 

What is Scotland’s capital city?  

Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city. 

How many Scottish cities are there?  

8 - Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Perth, Stirling, and Dunfermline. 

Explore Scotland's cities.

When is the best time to visit Scotland?  

All of Scotland’s seasons offer something different: 

• Spring (March, April, May) – seeing leaves and plants bursting into life, watching newborn animals playing, sitting by a tranquil riverbed at the start of the fishing season, celebrating Whisky Month, Tartan Day, and Easter. 
• Summer (June, July, August) – strolling in the sunshine, enjoying a luxurious ice cream, having a blast at a festival or a traditional Highland game, cycling through a leafy forest or along the glittering coastline. 
• Autumn (September, October, November) – walking on carpets of golden leaves, seeing migrating birds flying overhead, celebrating St Andrews Day, or waking up to a shimmering frost. 
• Winter (December, January, February) – lounging by cosy fires, taking winter walks, playing in the snow, shopping at Christmas fairs, celebrating Christmas, Hogmanay, and Burns Night. 

Read more on the best time to visit Scotland 

Can I still visit Scotland now the UK has left the EU? 

Yes, you are still able to visit Scotland. For more information and advice, please check the UK Government advice for visiting the UK after Brexit. 

Find out more information on travel from Europe to Scotland  

What is an Electronic Travel Authorisation? 

People travelling to the UK without a visa need to get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This gives permission to travel to the UK and is electronically linked to the traveller’s passport. 

Find out more information to see if you're eligible for the ETA scheme 

Do any Scottish destinations have a Visitor Levy/Tourist Tax?  

Yes. Some Scottish destinations have introduced a visitor levy on overnight stays in paid accommodation. 

• Edinburgh – A visitor levy of 5% applies to bookings made on or after 24 July 2026 for overnight stays in paid accommodation.  
• Glasgow – From 25 January 2027, a 5% levy will apply to overnight accommodation stays in the city. The levy applies to advance bookings made from April 2026 for stays on or after 25 January 2027.  
• Aberdeen – From 1 April 2027, a 7% levy will apply to overnight accommodation stays in the city.  
• Stirling – From 14 June 2027, a 3% levy will apply to overnight paid accommodation stays in the Stirling Council area. Stirling council residents will be exempt from paying the levy, as will stays of more than 7 nights. 

The money generated from the levy will be reinvested in services and facilities used by both visitors and residents. 

Find out more at ForeverEdinburgh 

Do I need any vaccinations to visit Scotland?  

No. 

Are there restrictions on what I can bring into Scotland? 

Yes, take a look at our information on restricted products when visiting Scotland from abroad. 

What is the international dialling code for the UK?  

+44. 

What is the emergency number?  

999. 

What number should I call for non-emergency medical and healthcare advice?  

Dial 111 to speak to the NHS 24 service which provides urgent health advice out of hours. 

What type of electrical adapter do I need?  

Scotland uses Type G plugs with a standard UK 230V electricity supply. 

What type of currency can I use?  

Pound Sterling. 

What side of the road should I drive on?  

People drive on the left-hand side of the road in Scotland. 

Do I need a UK driving licence to drive in Scotland? 

Visitors can usually drive in Scotland using a valid driving licence from their home country. However, requirements may vary depending on where your licence was issued. 

Check the UK Government guidance before travelling. 

What is public transport like in Scotland? 

Scotland has a good public transport network, including trains, buses, and ferries connecting most cities, towns, and islands. Services are generally reliable but can be less frequent in rural and remote areas. 

How many passengers can a taxi take?  

Taxis you see in the street will usually accommodate 4, 5 or 6 people, depending on the size of the taxi, but some taxi firms also offer people carriers and minibuses which can accommodate more people. Booking your taxi in advance is a good way to guarantee you’ll get the size of taxi you need. 

Scottish culture and traditions 

What is Hogmanay?  

Scotland’s world famous New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31. Hogmanay is a huge festivity in Scotland that involves street parties, traditions, and lots of good will to all men and women. Don’t be surprised if you get hugged by friendly people around you at the bells (midnight) or asked to join an impromptu ceilidh in the street! 

Explore all events in Scotland.

How do I find a place of worship in Scotland?  

Once you know which town or city you are visiting, have a look online on local maps to find a nearby venue. Many of our places of worship have their own websites with timings of services and details for visiting.