FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SCOTLAND IN JULY
If you want to know more about Scotland tours in July, read on for our expert advice. We’re here to answer your most commonly asked questions so you can plan for your trip to Scotland in July.
What are the best things to do in Scotland in July?
Many of Scotland’s amazing attractions are accessible all year long. But as July is a summer month, there are longer opening hours, daylight hours and better weather. This allows you to enjoy and take on more of the fun travel experiences Scotland offers.
Here are the 10 best things to do in Scotland in July:
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Drive around the beautiful Scottish Highlands
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Admire the natural scenery, including stunning beaches
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Go hiking in the rugged hills and national parks
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Sail to one or more of the Scottish islands
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Explore picturesque, ancient ruins and castles
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Learn about Scotland’s Viking heritage
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Taste the various whisky flavours and local food
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Walk along the lochs and glens
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Immerse yourself in Gaelic culture
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Visit the buzzing cities, charming towns and fishing villages
What are the most popular events in Scotland in July?
Travel to Scotland in July and you could attend some of the varied events hosted around the country. Why not go along to some Highland games on the weekends, taking place all over Scotland? These involve a series of traditional athletic competitions (with lots of kilts and bagpipes!).
As well as the Highland games, you might like to attend some music concerts, food festivals, sporting events or agricultural shows. There is a lot going on up and down the country at this time of year, making July a great month to visit Scotland!
Are there any festivals in Scotland in July?
Take your pick from an array of festivals in Scotland in July. These are the most popular ones:
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TRNSMT
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Lomond Folk Festival
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Hebridean Celtic Festival (“HebCelt”)
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Eilean Dorcha Festival
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Fèis an Eilein: The Skye Festival
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Stonehaven Folk Festival
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Edinburgh International Jazz & Blues Festival
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Speyfest
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Edinburgh Art Festival
Can I attend Highland games in Scotland in July?
Yes, you can attend the Highland games in July. These traditional events involve a series of traditional athletic competitions (with lots of kilts and bagpipes!). They are usually held throughout the Highlands on weekends and are a great Scottish cultural experience.
You’ll find games held across the country, from Oban and Stirling to the Isle of Skye and northern Highlands.
What are the best places to visit in Scotland in July?
With fair weather and long days, you can see a lot of Scotland in July. Take advantage of these good conditions to get to know its towns, historic sites and natural highlights.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Scotland in July:
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Pop by
St Andrews to visit Scotland’s oldest university and the home of golf
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What is the weather like in Scotland in July?
July is a summer month in Scotland, so you can usually expect some of the warmest temperatures of the year. On average, there are highs of 18°C (64°F) and lows of 9°C (49°F). You can also get some lovely warm days in the low to mid 20s°C (68°F).
Bear in mind that you might experience all sorts of weather, as Scotland’s climate can be a little unpredictable. It could rain, be windy or very sunny!
What are July temperatures in Scotland?
Scotland has average high temperatures of 18°C (64°F) and average lows of 9°C (49°F) in July.
What to wear in Scotland in July?
Like in many of the Nordic countries, Scots have the saying: “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing”.
Since the weather is changeable in Scotland, even in July, we recommend layers. That way you can remove or add clothes depending on the day’s weather. Make sure to bring some lightweight and warm under layers as well as a rain jacket.
What are the daylight hours in July in Scotland?
You’ll get to experience the lovely long summer days when you visit Scotland in July. Depending on where in the country you go and the time of month you visit, you’ll have between 16 and 19 daylight hours per day in July.
As the summer solstice occurs on 20 or 21 June, the longest days of July are at the start of the month. In Edinburgh, the sun rises at 4:30 AM and sets at 10 PM. In Lerwick, the capital of the Shetland Islands, the sun rises at 3:45 AM and sets at 10:30 PM.
Does it snow in Scotland in July?
It is very unlikely that it will snow during your July trip to Scotland, as this is the height of summer. However, it is possible to catch sight of some snow at the tops of the tallest mountains.
Are there midges in Scotland in July?
Yes, if you’re holidaying in Scotland during the summer months, you can expect midges to be out and about. Midges are tiny insects that bite, found especially in the Highlands and islands of Scotland. July and August is usually considered the worst period for midges in Scotland.
They are at their most active in the early mornings and evenings. You can try to avoid being outside in the countryside at those times of the day. Or we recommend carrying the Avon Skin-So-Soft body oil spray, the repellent of choice for Britain’s Royal Marines.
What to pack for Scotland in July?
For a trip to Scotland in July, it is best to be ready for all kinds of weather. From warm days to windy and rainy weather, make sure to pack all the necessary clothing. That way, come rain or shine, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the country.
Here is an essential packing list for your Scotland in July:
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Lightweight layers, including t-shirts, long sleeve shirts, and shorts
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Warm jumper or fleece
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Jeans or warm trousers
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Waterproof jacket or shell layers
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Waterproof trousers
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Wool socks for hiking
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Sun hat or cap
As well as these essentials, be sure to bring good sturdy hiking boots depending on what activities you may want to enjoy. In addition, you might like to pack an eye mask to help you sleep as the sun rises early in July!
How to tour Scotland in July?
There are various ways to travel on your Scotland tour in July. Depending on your personal tastes and requirements, you could either go for a guided or self-guided vacation.
Road trip around Scotland
July is a fantastic time to visit Scotland on a self-drive tour, which would allow you to stop at the sights you want to see at your own pace. At this time of year, the road conditions are good for touring and you’ll enjoy long daylight hours to drive and explore.
Pick up your rental car from Edinburgh or Glasgow and drive to iconic locations. You could visit St Andrews, Loch Ness, Inverness, the Isle of Skye and Fort William, amongst many more.
Depending on the amount of time you have, there are many options and regions of Scotland you could visit. Do an express tour into the Highlands in 5 days or take 2 to 3 weeks to do a complete tour, including the northern and western isles.
Driving in Scotland is an adventure that you won’t regret! Especially if you book with Nordic Visitor, as we offer collision damage waiver and a 24/7 helpline for emergencies.
Good to note: In Scotland, and the wider UK, motorists drive on the left. If you are not used to this, we recommend hiring an automatic car. Alternatively, you could choose a guided tour instead and have a local expert do all the driving.
Join a small group tour of Scotland
Do you want to leave the driving to someone else? Between May and September, you could opt to join a small group tour. This way you could explore the highlights of the Highlands and the Isle of Skye with like-minded travellers.
A small group tour offers an enriching experience, allowing you to get the most out of your trip thanks to the expertise of a local guide. What’s more, you’ll be travelling alongside 14 people at most, so the trip is still personal for you.
Learn about Scottish history and culture with a private guide
On the other hand, you might prefer to be accompanied by your very own local expert throughout your Scotland experience.
A privately guided tour is one of the most exclusive ways to see Scotland and learn all about this beautiful country. You’ll have your own personal guide to show you the best locations and teach you about the local history.
Whatever tour you pick, you’ll take advantage of all our signature benefits. These include charming accommodation, daily breakfast, transportation, such as car rental and ferries, our Nordic Visitor Scotland Travel Guide, and a hand-marked map with your route and highlights.
You’ll also have activities, like entry to castles and whisky distilleries, included in some packages.
Good to know: Our Scotland itineraries aren’t set in stone. Our Edinburgh-based Scotland experts know the country inside out. They’ll help you see the country your way, tailoring your itinerary and adding all the best excursions to suit you.
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