Must-See Locations in Scotland: The Top 10
Planning your first trip to Scotland and wondering where to start?
From the historic capital of Edinburgh to the legendary Loch Ness, the stunning Orkney Islands, the scenic Glencoe, and the vibrant city of Glasgow, Scotland offers an array of breathtaking destinations.
Here are the top 10 must-see places to visit in Scotland.
1. Glencoe
Drive through the dramatic "Glen of Weeping" to experience the awe-inspiring landscapes of Glencoe. Nestled amidst towering mountains, you'll find the charming wee white house (pictured above), a symbol of the area and one you may have seen on your desktop photos at one point!
Glencoe is consistently names one of our visitors FAVOURITE places and so our Glencoe day tour is a very popular one. Check out the itinerary here.
2. Loch Ness at Fort Augustus
Take a boat tour on Loch Ness from Fort Augustus, exploring Scotland's largest loch and the lively Caledonian Canal. Keep an eye out for the mythical Nessie as you soak in the stunning views.
Heading up to Loch Ness is quite a ways to go but we’ve created a day tour itinerary that does it justice and shows you epic locations along the way - check it out here.
3. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
Discover the natural beauty of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. This stunning region offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities and is home to the famous Loch Lomond. There are plenty of easier hikes around the area with spectacular views of the loch like Conic Hill (Viewpoint pictured below).
4. Edinburgh
No trip to Scotland is complete without a visit to its capital city, Edinburgh. From the historic Edinburgh Castle to the charming streets of the Old Town, this city is rich in history and culture.
Check out our article: The Royal Mile and Beyond: 8 Can't-Miss Attractions in Edinburgh, to learn more.
5. The Isle of Skye
Explore the Isle of Skye, Scotland's most popular island destination. With its dramatic landscapes, rugged cliffs, and scenic beauty, Skye is a true marvel. Check out Lealt falls, Duntulm castle and the Old man of Storr (pictured below) amongst many other incredible locations.
To see an itinerary for heading to the Isle of Skye and getting the most out of it, click here.
6. Fife and St Andrews
Visit Fife and the historic town of St Andrews, known as the home of golf and the place where Prince William and Kate Middleton met. This vibrant town is steeped in history and tradition.
Not far from Edinburgh, it’s enough to head out for the day to see St. Andrews and the surrounding area. Check out our day tour itinerary here.
7. Ben Nevis and Fort William
Challenge yourself to climb Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, and explore the outdoor capital of Scotland, Fort William. This area is perfect for adventure seekers.
To learn more about Fort William, click here.
8. The Cairngorms National Park
Discover the vast beauty of The Cairngorms National Park, the largest national park in the UK, covering over 4,500 square kilometers. It's a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts.
Learn more about the Cairngorms here.
9. Lewis & Harris
The Outer Hebrides of Scotland are a place of solitude, beauty and a reflection of the ruggedness found elsewhere in our beautiful country. It’s also a top place to hear Gaelic spoken - and if you’re brave enough, to practice some yourself.
Incredible ancient history, local traditions and the most beautiful beaches in Scotland!
We’ve got a 5-day tour itinerary to see the best the islands have to offer while travelling up through the incredible Highlands of Scotland, check it out here.
10. Orkney Islands
Sail across to the Orkney Islands and uncover 5,000 years of history. This beautiful archipelago offers a unique blend of natural beauty and ancient heritage.
Click here for a 5-day itinerary that takes you up through the BEST of the Highlands of Scotland and onto Orkney to explore the ancient mysteries there!
Scotland is a land of breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you're drawn to its bustling cities, tranquil lochs, or rugged landscapes, there's something for everyone to enjoy. These top 10 locations are just the beginning of what Scotland has to offer.
Check out our 25+ EPIC locations to visit to get more specific and see what’s out there!
