Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Dream Vacation in Scotland

With its stately castles, glass-like lochs, and voluptuous glens, Scotland has always been a showstopper. The country’s magic extends from its quaint small towns to the snow-capped peaks of its romantic, rugged Highlands to its dynamic modern cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh. It’s home to some of the best national parks in the U.K. and more than 900 offshore islands with extraordinary wildlife.

The raw, poetic beauty of this ancient land — formerly known as Caledonia — is difficult to overstate. If you’re hoping to head to the U.K.’s ravishing northern nation, read on for our guide to planning the perfect Scotland vacation.

Best Times to Go to Scotland

The bad news is that, like the rest of the U.K., Scotland’s weather is far from reliable, even at the height of summer. However, as long as you’re prepared to accept that and pack a raincoat for the odd shower or two, then you’ll be fine from May to September. The smart money is on visiting in June and the first two weeks of July, when Scotland basks in seemingly endless summer evenings.

For winter travelers, Scotland has the U.K.’s best ski resort at Cairngorm Mountain, while the capital, Edinburgh, hosts one of the world’s biggest New Year’s Eve parties, Hogmanay.

Best Things to Do in Scotland

If you like the great outdoors, you’ll love Scotland. It’s an ideal place for hiking, biking, and generally embracing the wildly beautiful landscape. You can summit magnificent Ben Nevis in a day, take a ferry out to explore the Hebrides archipelago, and dive into a quirky food scene encompassing traditional Scottish dishes.

Scotland is also a mecca for both golfers and whisky lovers, with some of the world’s best distilleries available to tour.

8 Best Small Towns in Scotland — From Bucolic Islands to the Rugged Highlands

If you enjoy driving, you’ll find some of the U.K.’s emptiest, most dramatic roads here, including the North Coast 500, an action-packed 500-mile route featuring breathtaking scenery.

And if you prefer your challenges on foot, check out the magnificent West Highland Way, the country’s best-loved long-distance walking route.

Meanwhile, history buffs will also be agog on any visit to Scotland, thanks to its 3,000-plus castles. If you can, make time to visit Perth, the former Scottish capital, and infamous Glen Coe, known for the brutal clan massacre of 1692.

Where are the Scottish Highlands — and what is the best way to get there?

The Highlands cover 10,000 square miles of picturesque scenery. The region’s lively capital is Inverness, which sits centrally and is a superb base from which to explore.

The easiest way to reach the Highlands is to fly into Inverness Airport from London or elsewhere in the U.K., or rent a car and drive from Glasgow or Edinburgh. However, for a stylish arrival, consider the Caledonian Sleeper train from London Euston, recognized as one of the world’s best train journeys.

Where to Stay in Scotland

The major cities have an abundance of hotels for every budget, from boutique properties to traditional country house hotels. Scotland also offers a unique experience with many castles converted into hotels and B&Bs.

Wherever you stay, you’ll get a warm welcome — not to mention a hot bowl of Scottish porridge or a plate of bacon, eggs, and haggis to start the day.