Start your trip in Edinburgh, gateway to Scotland. Edinburgh Castle is an iconic landmark and a must-see attraction to start exploring the historic city. You'll see the Scottish Crown Jewels, visit the One O'Clock Gun and experience stunning views of the city from this historical fortress.
Drive through the stunning national park, home to beautiful lakes, forests, and mountains. Take a hike or a bike ride around the beautiful Loch Lomond, the largest lake in Great Britain by surface area.
Take a scenic drive to the legendary Loch Ness. Enjoy boat rides, explore castles, and, of course, try to spot Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster.
One of Scotland's best-kept secrets, the Isle of Skye is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the stunning coastline, take a boat tour to see the seals, and hike to the Old Man of Storr, a stunning rock formation.
Explore the tourist-friendly city of Glasgow and visit world-renowned museums. Enjoy the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum or the Riverside Museum, a transportation museum with a collection of vintage cars and ships.
Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most historically significant sites. With stunning views, this former royal palace is full of history and is well worth exploring.
Nature lovers should not miss the gorgeous Cairngorms National Park, the UK's largest national park. Enjoy some of the best hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting in the country.
End your trip with a drive through the Scottish Highlands, a land of fairytale castles, misty lochs, and dramatic scenery.
It's best to rent a car to explore Scotland since public transportation options are limited, and driving through the highlands is an experience in itself. Consider booking your car rental in advance to save money. Driving time between locations can vary depending on traffic, distance, and weather conditions, so give yourself extra time while planning. Estimated travel cost for petrol, rental car and parking fees start at £450 per person for 8 days with several passengers.
If you have more time, you can explore more Islands around Scotland, such as Orkney, Mull or Isle of Arran. If you have less time, consider dividing your trip in half by skipping Cairngorms National Park and the Scottish Highlands to give yourself more time to explore attractions on your itinerary. Make sure to bring layers for unpredictable weather, wear comfortable walking shoes, and don't forget your camera to capture unforgettable moments.
The primary airport in Scotland is Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located 8 miles (12.9 km) west of Edinburgh's city center. Glasgow Airport (GLA) is the second-largest airport, located approximately 6 miles (10 km) from the city center. Both airports have excellent transport links to the rest of Scotland.