Scotland Travel Guide - Best Cities
Introduction to Scotland
There’s a charming mystique about Scotland that captures the hearts of travellers from all corners of the globe. From medieval castles echoing tales of ancient times, to the delightful warmth of Scotch whisky, and the lilting melodies of bagpipes – Scotland invites you with open arms. This article will walk you through the must-see cities of Scotland, getting you ready for a trip you’ll never forget. Ready for a bonny good time? Let’s dive right in!
Be sure to take a look at our other guides to the Scotland and Europe at the end of this article. Our full Edinburgh Travel Guide can be found here. Enjoy!
5 Key Takeaways
- Scotland’s cities each offer a unique blend of history, culture, cuisine, and beauty. Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen are must-see destinations on any Scottish journey.
- Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, is famed for its historic charm and attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Old Town.
- Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, offers a blend of style, music, and history with notable places like the Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Museum, and King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut.
- Inverness in the Highlands is rich in folklore and serves as a perfect base for exploring nearby lochs and glens, including the infamous Loch Ness.
- Aberdeen, known as the Granite City, boasts gleaming stone buildings and a bustling harbour, with attractions such as the Aberdeen Maritime Museum and the Cruickshank Botanic Garden.
Edinburgh: A Capital of Contrast
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is the perfect blend of the ancient and the modern. Its rich history and vibrant culture provide a stunning backdrop for visitors to explore. With a wealth of attractions, delectable cuisine, and a jam-packed festival calendar, Edinburgh has something to offer everyone.
A Journey Through Time: Edinburgh's Historic Centre
Edinburgh’s historic centre is divided into two main parts: the Old Town and the New Town, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The Old Town is a maze of cobbled streets, narrow alleyways, and hidden courtyards, all amazingly well preserved and steeped in the city’s history. The main artery is the Royal Mile, which stretches from the Edinburgh Castle down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The castle, perched high on a dormant volcano, offers panoramic views over the city, while the palace is the Queen’s official residence in Scotland.
The New Town, in contrast, is a masterpiece of urban planning, renowned for its neoclassical architecture. Explore George Street for its high-end shopping and dining options and don’t miss the Scottish National Gallery, home to masterpieces by renowned artists.
Arthur's Seat and The Crags
For those seeking to combine city sightseeing with a bit of a workout, the Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano and hill located in Holyrood Park, offers a great hike with rewarding views. Nearby, The Crags are another popular walking and climbing spot.
Edinburgh: A Culinary Adventure
Edinburgh’s culinary scene is a gastronomic delight. From traditional Scottish dishes in cosy pubs to innovative menus in Michelin-starred restaurants, the city caters to all tastes. Be sure to try haggis, a traditional Scottish dish, and don’t forget to pair it with a glass of world-renowned Scotch whisky.
Fringe Festival and Hogmanay
Edinburgh knows how to celebrate. The city is globally renowned for its festivals, most notably the Edinburgh Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival, taking place in August. End your year with a bang at Hogmanay, Edinburgh’s world-famous New Year’s celebration, with its spectacular fireworks, street parties, and traditional Scottish music.
Edinburgh in Conclusion
Edinburgh is more than just a city. It’s a vibrant, dynamic, and exciting capital that invites visitors to step into a world where history meets modernity, where every corner has a story to tell, and where unforgettable experiences await. Whether you are a history buff, a culture enthusiast, a foodie, or an adventurer, Edinburgh has something for you.
Our full Edinburgh Travel Guide can be found here.
Glasgow: Scotland's Cultural Powerhouse
Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, is a vibrant and dynamic metropolis renowned for its stunning architecture, thriving music scene, world-class museums, and an incredible variety of food and drink offerings. The city has an unmistakable energy that sets it apart and makes it a must-visit destination for travellers.
Architectural Splendour: Glasgow's Victorian and Modern Gems
Glasgow is a city of architectural wonders, a delight for those who appreciate the beauty of the built environment. It’s a place where the Victorian grandeur meets modernist design, with buildings by celebrated architects like Charles Rennie Mackintosh making Glasgow a hotspot for architecture lovers. Don’t miss the Glasgow School of Art and the Willow Tea Rooms, both Mackintosh’s masterpieces.
A Thriving Art Scene: Galleries and Street Art
The city is also a cultural hub with a thriving arts scene. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of Scotland’s most popular free attractions, featuring 22 themed galleries and housing an impressive collection of artworks and artefacts. Glasgow’s streets themselves are a canvas, with vibrant murals transforming the city’s brickwork into works of art.
Vibrant Music and Nightlife
Glasgow’s music scene is legendary. It’s been named a UNESCO City of Music, thanks to its vibrant live music scene and venues like King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, where Oasis was discovered. The city’s nightlife is equally impressive, with a plethora of pubs, bars, and clubs catering to all tastes.
Gastronomic Delights: From Traditional Fare to Fusion Cuisine
Glasgow’s culinary scene is diverse and exciting. The city offers everything from traditional Scottish cuisine to innovative fusion dishes. With an abundance of seafood, vegan options, and of course, traditional Scottish delicacies, Glasgow has the palate of food lovers covered.
Exploring the Outdoors: Parks and the River Clyde
Despite being a bustling city, Glasgow offers plenty of green spaces. The Botanic Gardens and Pollok Country Park are perfect spots for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Additionally, the River Clyde that flows through the heart of the city has a network of riverside paths that offer scenic walks.
Glasgow in Conclusion
Glasgow, with its distinctive blend of culture, history, architecture, and an unrivalled music scene, offers a unique experience to its visitors. This cosmopolitan city pulsates with energy and warmth, and its friendly locals make every visitor feel right at home.
Inverness: The Gateway to the Scottish Highlands
Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands, is a charming city that beautifully combines the old and new. It’s the perfect base for exploring the surrounding wilderness, but there’s also plenty to see within the city itself. Known for its warm hospitality, captivating history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Inverness is a must-visit city on your Scottish adventure.
Historical Landmarks and Architectural Wonders
Steeped in history, Inverness is home to several historical landmarks, including Inverness Castle. While the castle itself is not open to the public, its tower offers panoramic views of the city, River Ness, and beyond. St Andrew’s Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, is another notable city landmark.
A short stroll along the charming Victorian Market offers an array of local boutiques, cafes, and souvenir shops. It’s a delightful place to find a unique keepsake or enjoy a cup of Scottish tea.
The Enchanting River Ness and Ness Islands
The River Ness flows right through the heart of the city, offering picturesque riverside walks. A stroll along the river takes you to the Ness Islands, a group of islands in the middle of the river connected by Victorian suspension bridges. It’s a serene spot, perfect for a picnic or a leisurely walk.
A Gateway to Loch Ness
Inverness serves as the gateway to the legendary Loch Ness. Take a short drive or join a guided tour from Inverness to explore this iconic lake. Don’t forget to stop by the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition to learn more about the loch’s natural history and, of course, the tales of Nessie, the famous Loch Ness Monster!
Bursting with Culture: Music, Festivals, and Highland Games
Inverness has a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of live music, especially traditional Scottish tunes. Don’t miss the opportunity to catch a live performance at Eden Court Theatre, the largest multi-arts venue in Scotland.
The city also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Inverness Highland Games and the Inverness Music Festival. These events offer a fantastic opportunity to experience traditional Scottish culture.
Inverness In Conclusion
Inverness is a city of captivating charm, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its welcoming atmosphere, coupled with its proximity to the enchanting Scottish Highlands, makes it a must-visit city for any Scotland itinerary.
Recommend website: Inverness Travel Guide
Aberdeen: The Granite City with a Golden Heart
Aberdeen, Scotland’s third-largest city, is known as the ‘Granite City’ due to its many sparkling grey-stone buildings. But it’s not just the gleaming architecture that will catch your eye – the city is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, beautiful parks, and the picturesque coastline, making it a must-see destination for any Scottish travel itinerary.
Historical Treasures and Architectural Marvels
Aberdeen is home to numerous historical and architectural landmarks. At the heart of the city lies the striking Marischal College, the world’s second-largest granite building, which now serves as the headquarters of Aberdeen City Council. Its intricate façade is a sight to behold!
Equally impressive is the Aberdeen Art Gallery, housed in a beautifully renovated Victorian building. It boasts an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and jewellery, providing a deep insight into Scottish culture and history.
Don’t miss the Old Aberdeen area, where you’ll find the stunning King’s College, a part of the University of Aberdeen. Established in the 15th century, its majestic crown tower is a distinctive feature of the city skyline.
Aberdeen's Lush Green Spaces
Despite its urban landscape, Aberdeen is also known for its beautiful green spaces. Duthie Park, with its fascinating collection of plants in the David Welch Winter Gardens, is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. Similarly, Seaton Park offers lovely flower beds and woodland walks, not to mention stunning views over the River Don.
A City by the Sea
Aberdeen’s sandy beach and bustling harbour add another dimension to the city. The Aberdeen Beach area offers beautiful coastal walks, and the adjacent Beach Boulevard has a variety of entertainment facilities, including restaurants, an amusement park, and a cinema.
A Culinary Journey
Aberdeen offers a rich culinary experience. From traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps and tatties to freshly caught seafood, the city caters to all tastes. Don’t forget to try a buttery, a local bread roll that’s a favourite among Aberdonians!
Aberdeen In Conclusion
Aberdeen is a city that blends the charm of history with the vibrancy of modern life. It offers something for everyone, from history buffs and nature lovers to foodies and culture enthusiasts. Its stunning granite skyline, cultural treasures, green spaces, and inviting coastline make Aberdeen a must-visit city in Scotland.
Recommended website: Aberdeen Travel Guide
Other Places to Visit in Scotland
Isle of Skye: Explore this largest and northernmost of the major islands in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, famous for its picturesque landscapes.
Stirling Castle: Visit this iconic royal fortress, where several Scottish Kings and Queens have been crowned, including Mary, Queen of Scots.
Glencoe: Enjoy hiking, climbing, and even skiing in this stunningly beautiful area of the Highlands.
Visit a Whisky Distillery: With more than 120 active distilleries spread across Scotland, a whisky tour is an essential experience.
Forth Bridge: Marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a marvel of Victorian engineering.
Ben Nevis: Challenge yourself with a hike up Scotland’s highest mountain.
Scottish National Gallery: Art lovers shouldn’t miss this impressive collection of European paintings and sculptures in Edinburgh.
Orkney Islands: Explore these islands off the northeastern coast, known for their ancient archaeological sites.
See a Highland Games: Experience traditional Scottish culture at its best with these events showcasing music, dance, and sports.
Loch Lomond: Take a boat trip, try water sports or simply enjoy the stunning landscapes of this beautiful loch in the Trossachs National Park.
St Andrews: Golf enthusiasts can visit the ‘home of golf’, and history buffs can explore the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral.
The Jacobite Steam Train: Often known as the ‘Harry Potter train’, it offers one of the world’s greatest train journeys, passing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
Wildlife Watching: Scotland has rich wildlife. You might see dolphins in Moray Firth, red deer in the Highlands, or puffins in the Shetland Islands.
Remember, Scotland is a country rich in heritage and landscapes, and there’s plenty more to explore beyond this list!
Practical Tips for Visiting Scotland
Pack for All Weathers: Scottish weather is notoriously changeable. Even in summer, you might experience all four seasons in a single day! Make sure to pack a variety of clothing suitable for different weather conditions.
Carry Cash: While most places accept card payments, some smaller shops, restaurants, or rural areas might only accept cash.
Understand Driving Rules: If you plan on driving, remember that in Scotland, like the rest of the UK, driving is on the left side of the road.
Respect the Countryside: Scotland’s countryside is beautiful and it’s everyone’s responsibility to keep it that way. Follow the Outdoor Access Code – leave no trace of your visit and take your litter home.
Use Public Transport: Trains and buses connect most parts of Scotland and can be a more relaxing way to travel. Consider purchasing a rail or bus pass for unlimited travel.
Plan Your Itinerary: Scotland has a lot to offer and it’s impossible to see everything in one trip. Prioritise what you want to see and do, and plan accordingly.
Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying traditional Scottish dishes such as haggis, black pudding, and Scotch pies. And, of course, sample some Scotch whisky!
Take Care on the Roads: Many roads in the Highlands and on the Islands are single track with passing places. Make sure you know how to use these before setting off.
Respect the Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals, and remember, it’s illegal to disturb nesting birds or seals with pups.
Pre-Book Popular Attractions: Some popular attractions can be very busy, especially during the peak summer months. Try to pre-book tickets online to avoid disappointment.
Bring a Power Adapter: Scotland uses Type G plugs, so you may need to bring an adapter if your devices use a different type of plug.
Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy your trip and make the most of all the wonderful experiences Scotland has to offer!
Final Thoughts
Scotland is a rich tapestry of history, culture, cuisine, and jaw-dropping beauty. From the ancient charm of Edinburgh to the modern vibrance of Glasgow, the mystical highlands of Inverness, and the shimmering granite city of Aberdeen – each city promises a unique, enchanting experience.
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Related articles: Best time to visit Scotland
Recommended websites: Visit Scotland , Scottish Government , UK Visas and Immigration
Author
Nick Harvey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time to visit Scotland?
The best time to visit Scotland is during spring (late March to June) and autumn (September to November). However, if you wish to experience the famed Edinburgh Festival, plan your trip in August.
2. How do I travel between cities in Scotland?
Scotland has an excellent public transportation system. You can travel by train, bus, or car.
3. Do I need a visa to visit Scotland?
Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa. Check the UK government’s official website for detailed information.
4. What currency is used in Scotland?
Scotland uses the British Pound Sterling (£).
5. Is Scotland safe for tourists?
Scotland is generally very safe for tourists, but as with any travel, it’s always important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
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