Scotland
Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Covering the northern third of the island of Great Britain, mainland Scotland has a 96-mile border with England.
Rugged, colorful, and feisty, Scotland stands apart. From its stony architecture to its beautiful landscape, to the proud nature of its people, and their fondness for haggis. Scotland is distinctly not England.
A proud identity unites the sparsely populated country, all the way from the southern lowlands, which border England just north of Hadrian’s Wall, up to the rocky Highlands and remote islands. Outside its main cities, Scotland’s sights are subtle, but the misty glens, countryside castles, and warm culture are engaging. It’s easy to fall in love with the irrepressible spirit and beautiful landscape of this faraway corner of Britain.
Edinburgh, the countries capital is where you should always start in Scotland. Below you will find comprehensive guides to the country.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit the Scottish Highlands is from June to August. Summer temperatures are best for exploring the Highlands, however, with Scotland’s location so far up north on the globe, don’t expect a hot summer. During the country’s warmest month (August), highs rarely surpass the 70-degree mark.
The early summer warmth and long days allows for plenty of time out in the fresh air. In fact, the days are so long at this time of year that you can even play a round of golf at midnight in the north of Scotland.
While November is technically autumn, it’s the start of winter in Scotland. Days are short, dark, and often rather dismal, and the month often sees the first snow of the season. The best chance for snow is from December through January. This is the optimal time to go for an uncrowded, budget-friendly trip, with the best opportunities for lower room rates and airfare. Some attractions, as well as hotels and restaurants, may close during this time, so be sure to keep that in mind while trip planning.
For a month by month look click here
What To Expect
Capital: Edinburgh
Language: English is the main language spoken in Scotland and has been the since the 18th Century. However, there are a wide range of different languages, accents and dialects spoken across the country.
Currency: The official currency of Scotland is Pound Sterling (GBP). $1 USD is equivalent to 0.72 GBP. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: It’s always best to carry a mix of cash and cards in Edinburgh. Most big retailers and restaurants accept cards, but you will also still want cash on hand for small purchases or tips. If coming from England, you can still use English pounds. Most places will also accept contactless payments, like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Plugs: In Scotland the power plugs and sockets are of type G. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. Same type as England. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: OVERALL RISK : LOW. As a whole, Scotland is a relatively safe country to visit, but as with any place, you have to be careful in certain areas and situations.
Tips: Tap water is safe to drink and delicious.
Do’s and dont’s: Do try the malt whiskies (in moderation!). Do visit museums and theatres in the major cities. Don’t think of Scottish people as being mean, wearing kilts, eating haggis, and playing the bagpipes.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Scotland and reasons to visit Scotland
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Scotland
(Note: Scotland is brimming with activities. Truly, there’s an abundance to explore and experience. The following are just a few of our top picks. For more country-specific activities, refer to the detailed guides linked to each country below!)
Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, presents a harmonious blend of history and modernity. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town, with the iconic Royal Mile leading from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, is a maze of cobbled streets, hidden closes, and centuries-old buildings. Nearby, the Georgian splendour of the New Town offers grand squares and elegant terraces. Whether attending the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August, exploring the atmospheric Edinburgh Castle, or simply enjoying the city’s vibrant café culture, Edinburgh captivates at every turn.
Scotland’s Highlands are a vast, rugged expanse of majestic mountains, deep blue lochs, and remote glens. Among its many wonders, Loch Ness holds a special place, known not just for its breathtaking beauty but also for the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Whether you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of ‘Nessie’ or just enjoy the serene landscape, a boat trip on Loch Ness is a must. The nearby Urquhart Castle offers panoramic views of the loch and a deep dive into the region’s turbulent history.
For an unforgettable journey through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes, board the Jacobite Steam Train. This historic train, which fans might recognise from the Harry Potter films, travels from Fort William to Mallaig, crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct en route. The scenic route offers views of Ben Nevis, shimmering lochs, and rugged coastlines. The journey, often touted as one of the world’s most scenic train rides, provides a nostalgic and romantic way to experience the heart of the Highlands.
For those with a penchant for fine spirits, a trip to the Isle of Islay is a pilgrimage. Known as the ‘Queen of the Hebrides’, Islay boasts eight working distilleries, each producing its distinct flavour of whisky, from smoky and peaty to light and floral. Join a guided tour to learn about the centuries-old tradition of whisky-making, from mashing and fermenting to distilling and ageing. Of course, no visit would be complete without tasting sessions, where you can savour the rich, complex flavours that have made Islay whiskies world-renowned.
The Culloden Battlefield, located near Inverness, is a poignant site where the Jacobite Rising came to a tragic end in 1746. This climactic battle saw the Jacobite forces, supporting Charles Edward Stuart’s claim to the British throne, face off against the Duke of Cumberland’s government troops. The resulting defeat had profound implications for Highland culture, including the infamous Highland Clearances. Today, visitors can walk the battlefield, view interactive displays at the visitor centre, and pay their respects at the memorial cairn, commemorating the thousands who fell on that fateful day.
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