Start your Scottish adventure at the iconic Edinburgh Castle, which offers stunning views of the city from its hilltop location. After exploring the castle grounds and learning about Scotland's history, head down the cobblestone streets of the Royal Mile. This charming thoroughfare is filled with shops, cafes, street performers, and historical landmarks like St Giles' Cathedral.
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Scotland at the National Museum of Scotland. This museum offers a combination of interactive galleries, stunning objects, and exciting events, including family-friendly activities like storytelling and art workshops. After soaking up some history, visit Arthur's Seat, a rocky peak in Holyrood Park that provides panoramic views of the city.
Take a road trip to the Isle of Skye, which is known for its rugged landscapes and dramatic coastlines. Start your exploration in the charming town of Portree, which offers colorful buildings, cute shops, and seafood restaurants. Then, visit the Old Man of Storr, which is a massive rock formation that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
Explore Scottish whisky at its source with a visit to the Talisker Distillery in Carbost. This distillery offers guided tours, tastings, and an opportunity to buy souvenirs like bottles of Talisker single malt. After sampling some whisky, head to Dunvegan Castle, which is home to the MacLeod Clan and offers a rich history, wild gardens, and sea views.
Experience the natural magic of Scotland with a visit to the Fairy Pools, which are crystal-clear waters nestled in the shadow of the Black Cuillin mountains. After a refreshing swim or hike, drive to Neist Point Lighthouse, which is perched on a cliff over the sea and offers stunning sunsets and lighthouse tours.
You will need a car to travel from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye and around the island. Car rental prices vary depending on the company, but you can expect to pay around £120 per day. The journey from Edinburgh to Skye takes around 4 hours, so make sure to plan your breaks and take your time on the winding country roads.
If you have more time, you can explore other parts of Scotland like Glasgow, Aberdeen or Inverness. These cities offer a range of attractions, including museums, parks, and restaurants. If you have less time, you can skip some of the destinations listed above or combine them into a shorter itinerary.
Scotland has several airports, but the main international airport is Edinburgh Airport (EDI), which is located 6 miles west of the city center. From the airport, you can take taxis, buses, or trams to get to Edinburgh city center. Taxi rides cost around £20-25 and take approximately 30 minutes.