Scotland at a Glance

WHY VISIT SCOTLAND?

Imagine landscapes straight out of movie sets, a rich cultural heritage stretching back generations, castles galore, villages with timeless charm and friendly locals. Or, instead of imagining, why not experience it for yourself? It’s all waiting for you here in Scotland.

As the northern part of the British Isles, it has its own unique characteristics that set it apart from the other nations. The sheer mention of Scotland evokes images of mist-shrouded hills, ancient stone circles, castle ruins and old settlements. This is where many of Scotland’s greatest stories come to life.

• Explore the wide range of Scotland travel packages

If you're a keen nature lover, hiker or photographer, you’re in for a treat. You’ll have to spend some time in the scenic Scottish Highlands or the numerous Scottish Isles.

Other popular natural sights include the Isle of Skye, Loch Ness, Glen Coe, the Cairngorms National Park and the dramatic North Coast 500.

As for city life, the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, boasts a variety of attractions within its historic Old Town. And in summer, you could attend one of the many international cultural festivals, including the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival. 

On the west coast, you'll find Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city. It is renowned for its high-street shopping, vibrant music scene, and internationally recognised museums.

As a whole, Scotland is well-known for being a welcoming and friendly nation, so it is particularly ideal for solo travellers. 

Thanks to the diversity of landscapes and mild weather, Scotland makes for a fantastic destination year-round. You pick your preferred way to travel, whether on a self-drive package, guided small group tour, or private itinerary, and you're in for a trip to remember.

HOW TO GET TO SCOTLAND

All Nordic Visitor tours in Scotland start and end in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city. Edinburgh Airport is serviced by a large number of airlines including: Air Canada, American Airlines, British Airways, Delta, and KLM, among others.

Scotland has five international airports: Edinburgh, Glasgow, Glasgow Prestwick, Inverness and Aberdeen.

• View Scotland privately guided packages
• Or explore small group guided tours in Scotland, only available in summer

GETTING AROUND

Scotland’s varied landscapes and good road connections really lends itself to a road trip. For that reason, we recommend you opt for a self-drive tour. Just keep in mind that driving is done on the left side of the road.

If you’d rather forego the driving, you could discover this rugged country by bus on a small group tour or with a private driver-guide. No matter the way you journey around Scotland, you’ll be enchanted by the scenery.

Within Edinburgh, it’s easy to navigate by foot. If you prefer a bus, tram or taxi, here’s what you need to know:

Public transport is provided by Lothian Buses and the main station is at Waverley Bridge. You can buy a single fare on the bus directly from the driver, either by card or cash. But be prepared with the exact amount as they don't issue change.

Travelling between Edinburgh and Edinburgh Airport

The city of Edinburgh has a great public transport system linking Edinburgh Airport and the city centre.

The Airlink bus (service 100) runs 24 hours day, departing from the airport every 10 minutes. The journey to Edinburgh Waverley Station in the city centre takes about 25 minutes. A single fare or open return ticket can be purchased from kiosks or directly from the driver.

The Edinburgh Tram also operates between the airport and York Place in the city centre. There are departures every 8–12 minutes and the average journey time is 35 minutes. A single fare or open return for “Airport Zone” can be purchased from vending machines (with exact change or card payment).

• Browse all self-drive tours in Scotland

WHEN TO VISIT & WEATHER

There really isn’t a bad time to visit Scotland, and Nordic Visitor offers tours year-round so you can pick what’s right for you.

When you travel to Scotland will depend on what you want to do and see most. Would you like to enjoy cultural events and go hiking? The summer and shoulder season are for you.

Come in June, July or August for the best weather of the year and a festival-packed calendar. You could go sailing to enchanting islands, enjoy some hikes to famous peaks, and even dip your toes in the North Sea.

Months on either side of the summer, April, May, September and October, are also big favourites with visitors who would rather have a quieter time. You’ll notice there is less traffic on the roads and more availabilities at attractions and accommodation. May to September is also when you could go on a small guided group tour.

Would you rather curl up by an open fire with a dram of whisky? Then come during the winter, November to March, to enjoy a more relaxed adventure. This lesser-travelled season is still a great time to see Scotland, with moody winter lights and a magical layer of frost.

As for the weather, Scotland is renowned for being changeable, but don’t be put off. It’s not a climate that you would call extreme, meaning it’s not too hot in summer or too cold in winter. But, you should keep in mind that weather conditions are known to change quickly and often in all regions of Scotland. 

• View all summer tours in Scotland
• Or visit Scotland in winter

 And what should you pack for your trip around Scotland? Like other Northern European countries, in Scotland it's best to be ready for any weather. That means that no matter the season, you need a warm jumper or fleece, a waterproof jacket and good walking shoes or boots for all sorts of terrain.

Prepare for your holiday to Scotland by reading our useful packing guide filled with local tips. 

TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO

There are countless things to see all around Scotland. Below are some suggestions for you:

• The Old Town and Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital
• Glasgow, with its Georgian architecture and vibrant nightlife
• The Scottish Highlands and its capital, Inverness
• As many castles as you can along the “Castle Trail” in Aberdeenshire
• Loch Ness, the alleged home of the monster Nessie
• The mythical rock formations of the Isle of Skye
• The white sand beaches on the west coast and in the Outer Hebrides
• UNESCO World Heritage-listed Neolithic ruins on Orkney
• The beautiful Trossachs National Park and Loch Lomond area
• The “Seafood Capital” Oban on the west coast
• Eagles soaring high above the Isle of Mull

See more Scottish attractions by region.

Scotland also offers a wide range of cultural and nature-based activities. Why not try one of these popular activities below?

Food & Culture

• Visit one of Scotland's local distilleries to get a taste of its "water of life"
• Photograph castles and learn about the way of life of ancient clans
• Sample traditional Scottish cuisine such as haggis, porridge and black pudding
• Learn about Gaelic culture and the megaliths on the Isle of Lewis
• Follow in the footsteps of your favourite Harry Potter or Outlander characters
• Experience a traditional afternoon tea
• Go to a local festival or attend typical Highland Games in summer

Nature & Adventure

• Stroll along the dramatic beaches of Scotland's north coast
• Spot wildlife like deer, red squirrels, seals, eagles, and even basking sharks
• Take a boat trip to the islands of the Outer Hebrides
• Lace up your boots and hike trails on the striking Isle of Skye
• Drive through the majestic Glen Coe valley
• See Scotland's highest peak, Ben Nevis from Fort William
• Swim, or dip a toe, in one of the country’s many lochs

With Nordic Visitor, you can add optional activities and day tours, either at the time of your booking or on location during your stay. Browse optional excursions when you’re booking your tour online. Or ask your dedicated travel consultant, who’ll be able to advise you on available activities, timings, what's doable on your itinerary, and more.  

If you would like to add more activities to your Scotland holiday, we recommend booking a package that includes more time at each overnight location (for example, with two or more nights at the same accommodation).

• Check out all classic tours of Scotland