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Scotland Travel Guide

Scotland, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, stands out as a premier touring destination. Known for its rugged highlands, serene lochs, and historic castles, Scotland offers a journey through a land steeped in legend and beauty. Tours to Scotland often include exploring the atmospheric streets of Edinburgh, the scenic beauty of the Isle of Skye, and the cultural richness of Glasgow. Guided tours provide insights into Scotland's turbulent history, from ancient battles to clan legends. The country's appeal also lies in its natural wonders – the serene Loch Ness, the majestic Glencoe, and the remote beauty of the Outer Hebrides. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into history and culture, Scotland's diverse landscapes and rich heritage offer a captivating experience for all travelers. With tour operator volume buys plus our low everyday prices you can save up to 40% versus assembling the same itinerary on your own! Book your Scotland tour today with AffordableTours.com, your discounted tour headquarters. View Scotland Tour Deals and Discounts

Scotland Travel Guide
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Scotland Travel Guide

Scotland Tours Highlights

Iconic Sites and Attractions of Scotland

Edinburgh Castle - Perched atop an extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle is an emblem of Scottish heritage. Tours to this historic fortress offer panoramic views of Edinburgh and insights into Scotland's tumultuous history, including the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

Loch Ness - Famed worldwide for the mythical Loch Ness Monster, or 'Nessie,' Loch Ness is a stunning freshwater loch surrounded by picturesque scenery. Guided tours often include boat trips on the loch and visits to the nearby Urquhart Castle, offering a blend of natural beauty and folklore.

The Royal Mile - Stretching from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile is the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town. Tours along this historic street take in numerous sites of interest, including St. Giles' Cathedral and the Scottish Parliament Building.

Skara Brae - Part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site, Skara Brae, is a well-preserved prehistoric village. Tours to this ancient site offer a unique glimpse into the lives of people from over 5,000 years ago.

The Highlands - The Scottish Highlands are synonymous with breathtaking natural beauty. Tours to this region often include visits to iconic sites like Loch Ness, known for its legendary monster, and Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak. The Highlands' dramatic scenery is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, wildlife watching, and a glimpse into traditional Highland culture.

The Scottish Isles - The Isles, including Skye, Orkney, and the Outer Hebrides, offer some of Scotland's most stunning landscapes. Tours to Skye feature its dramatic mountain ranges and coastal scenery, while Orkney is known for its ancient Neolithic sites. The Outer Hebrides are celebrated for their remote beauty and traditional Gaelic culture.

The Lowlands - The Lowlands, encompassing the southern part of Scotland, offer a gentler landscape with rolling hills, peaceful abbeys, and the famous Borders region. This area is perfect for those interested in Scotland's literary heritage and pastoral scenery.

The Isle of Skye - Renowned for its rugged landscapes and coastal beauty, the Isle of Skye is a top destination for outdoor tours. Attractions like the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, and the Fairy Pools are popular among hikers and photographers.

Cairngorms National Park - The largest national park in the UK, Cairngorms National Park, offers a variety of outdoor activities. Tours here include hiking, mountain biking, and, in winter, skiing and snowboarding.

The West Highland Way - Scotland's most famous long-distance hiking trail, the West Highland Way, offers an immersive experience in the Scottish countryside. Guided walking tours along this route showcase the natural beauty and tranquility of rural Scotland.

Scotland Tours Travel Tips

  • Scotland is an independent nation that is part of the United Kingdom (the other countries in the UK are England, Wales, and Northern Ireland). The currency in Scotland is the British Pound. However, the banknotes look different than elsewhere in the UK. If you're heading from Scotland to the rest of the UK, know that shops outside Scotland may not accept Scottish banknotes even though they're legal tender throughout the UK. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even in rural areas.
  • Haggis, Scotland's national dish, is a must-try for any culinary explorer. Made from sheep's offal mixed with oats and spices, it's often served with ‘neeps and tatties' (turnips and potatoes). Tours to traditional Scottish pubs and restaurants in Edinburgh and Glasgow often feature this iconic dish. Scottish seafood is another highlight, with the country's extensive coastline providing fresh fish and shellfish. The smoked salmon from Scotland, especially from areas like the Isle of Skye, is renowned worldwide. Tours along the coast typically include visits to local smokehouses and seafood restaurants.
  • The Scottish Gaelic language, though less spoken now, remains a vital part of Scotland's cultural heritage. Tours in the Highlands and the Isles often include encounters with Gaelic speakers and an introduction to the language's rich history and literature. Scots, another linguistic heritage of Scotland, adds to the country's linguistic diversity.
  • Whisky enthusiasts will find Scotland to be a paradise, with guided tours available through the famous whisky regions, including Speyside and Islay, known for their distinct single malts.
  • The kilt, bagpipes, and Scottish clans are symbols of Scotland's cultural identity, often explored in cultural tours. Visits to historic castles and clan lands offer insights into the clan system and its impact on Scottish society.
  • Scotland is renowned for its festivals. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world's largest arts festival, showcases performances from around the globe, while traditional events like the Highland Games and Burns Night celebrate Scotland's history and the legacy of poet Robert Burns.
  • The convenience of having transportation and accommodation arranged allows you to relax and enjoy the journey without the stress of planning logistics. This is particularly beneficial in rural areas of Scotland where public transport can be limited.
  • One of the key benefits of an escorted tour is the knowledge of local guides. They bring Scotland's history and culture to life with their stories and expertise, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of each site. Additionally, guided tours often provide exclusive access to certain attractions or experiences not easily available to independent travelers.

Scotland Tours Things To Do

  • Follow the Castle Trail from Aberdeen
    Follow the Castle Trail from Aberdeen

    With more than a dozen of Scotland's best-preserved and most dramatic castles, the Castle Trail in Aberdeenshire can be anything from a single day to a six-day sojourn. Marvel at the spectacular Craigievar Castle, a 15th-century masterpiece with oriental windows, towering gables, and conical rooftops. Or visit the fairytale-like Crathes Castle, standing amidst picturesque rolling hills and home to elaborately painted ceilings, fine antique furniture, and grand portraits.  

    You Should Know

    The 311-mile Castle Trail from Stonehaven to Craigievar in the north of Scotland gives you the chance to discover 19 different castles and magnificent coastal and mountain scenery. If you're driving, follow the distinctive brown and white Castle Trail signs that can be spotted throughout Aberdeenshire.

  • Take a Distillery Tour on Islay
    Take a Distillery Tour on Islay

    Islay (pronounced eye-luh) is a spectacularly beautiful island located off the west coast of Scotland in the Inner Hebrides. Islay's claim to fame is its fine single-malt Scotch whisky produced at nine distilleries, which have earned it the nickname of whisky island. The distilleries, located in picturesque secluded glens, welcome whisky aficionados for guided tours. Ardbeg, the most popular, and Bowmore, the oldest dating back to 1779, are both well worth a visit.  

    Best Time To Visit

    The distilleries are open year-round but the best time to go to Islay is during the weeklong whisky festival held in the last week of May. It's a chance for visitors to taste the unique smoky, peaty whiskies with a hint of seaweed and salty sea air. There are also Celtic music concerts, ceilidhs (social events with traditional music and dance), cooking-with-whisky evenings, charity events, golf, and Gaelic lessons.

  • Experience Beautiful Edinburgh
    Experience Beautiful Edinburgh

    Scotland's capital, Edinburgh, is one of Europe's most beautiful cities with majestic gardens, wonderfully preserved buildings, and narrow cobbled passageways that give it a rare charm. Browse the city's many fascinating museums, including the People's Story Museum to see how Scots lived in the middle ages or the Surgeon's Hall Museum to see the evolution of medicine. Or visit the grandiose Edinburgh Castle, a historic landmark that watches over the city the top of an extinct volcano.  

    Best Time To Visit

    If you don't mind jostling with 250,000 other revelers, the Edinburgh Festival Fireworks Concert, held at the end of August, is not to be missed. It's the world's largest pyrotechnic display with 400,000 fireworks set off during a 45-minute show, accompanied by synchronized live music by the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. Pack a picnic and snag a vantage point from the many viewing spots scattered around the city. Needless to say, you'll have to get there early to bag a good spot.

  • Encounter Unique Wildlife
    Encounter Unique Wildlife

    Scotland's rich and diverse landscape is home to a wide variety of animals and birds, some of which can't be found anywhere else in the world. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot graceful white-tailed sea eagles, fluffy red squirrels, playful dolphins, majestic humpback whales, bushy-tailed Scottish wildcats, and of course, the shaggy highland cows with protruding horns that have become synonymous with Scotland.  

    You Should Know

    The Loch Garten Osprey Center, located about 10 miles from Aviemore, is a nature lover's paradise, home to red squirrels, red deer, crested tits, and the elusive white-bellied osprey, a species of fish-eating seahawks that can be viewed up close from a "hide" that is open from April to August.

  • Discover the Magnificent Isle of Arran
    Discover the Magnificent Isle of Arran

    Dramatic mountain peaks, rolling moorlands, secluded beaches, and charming fishing harbors makes the Isle of Arran a startlingly beautiful place to visit all year round. Add to this delicious local produce and great cultural festivals, and you have a place that is something of a miniature Scotland. Taste local ice creams and cream cheeses, traditional oatcakes, and refreshing beers. Book a tour of the Arran Distillery and sample a dram of malt whisky or the creamy Arran Gold liqueur. And work off all that culinary indulgence with a bracing hike up Goatfell mountain, the island's tallest peak at just over 2,800 feet.  

    You Should Know

    The ferry crossing from Ardrossan Harbor on the mainland (located 32 miles from Glasgow) to Brodick, the main village on the Isle of Arran, takes 55 minutes. If you're bringing your car, it's advisable to book the car ferry in advance. In the summer months, you can also sail from the Kintyre Peninsula to Lochranza in the north of Arran, which a shorter crossing and takes only 30 minutes.

  • Spend the Night in a Lighthouse
    Spend the Night in a Lighthouse

    For a truly unique experience, you can spend the night at a lighthouse in Scotland. The Rua Reidh Lighthouse, located at the end of a 12-mile single-track road, is perched on top of black rocks, overlooking the churning North Atlantic with the Isle of Skye on the horizon. To spend a few days at this remote but breathtakingly scenic location, you don't have to give up modern conveniences. The keeper's quarters have been transformed into comfortable bedrooms with en-suite facilities. There is a self-catering apartment as well as a choice of guest rooms available on bed and breakfast and evening meal basis.   

    You Should Know

    There is no mobile phone signal, TV, or wi-fi, so be prepared to leave the trappings of modern life behind and enjoy a digital detox. Rua Reidh is a great place to relax and revel in the peace and tranquility of the area. There are plenty of walking paths and abundant opportunities to spot wildlife in this stunning location.

  • Get Active in the Outer Hebrides
    Get Active in the Outer Hebrides

    With just 12 inhabited islands and over 200 uninhabited islands, the Outer Hebrides in Scotland are a paradise waiting to be explored. Connected by bridges, causeways, and ferries, a journey through the islands is a fascinating experience. Imagine paddling to a deserted island and enjoying a barbeque on the beach with nary a soul in sight. This dreamy archipelago is best explored by water. Our recommendation? The crystal-clear waters are ideal for sea kayaking. If you don't have prior experience, local professionals can take you out.  

    Best Time To Visit

    The best time to go to the Hebrides is April through October when the weather is mild. June, July, and August, in particular, are delightful with the wildflowers in bloom.

  • View the Spectacular Burrell Collection in Glasgow
    View the Spectacular Burrell Collection in Glasgow

    Amassed by the shipping magnate, Sir William Burrell, the Burrell Collection is a magnificent cornucopia of objects from Asia and Europe representing five millennia of history and art. Located in the beautiful woodland setting of Pollok Country Park, the collection includes everything from Chinese ceramics and Islamic art to Rodin sculptures, impressionist works by Cézanne and Degas, a self-portrait by Rembrandt, and Bellini's Madonna and Child. Best of all, the museum has free entry.  

    You Should Know

    The Burrell Collection is a 10- to 15-minute walk from the Pollokshaws West train station. The train journey from Glasgow Central to Pollokshaws West takes about 10 minutes.

Scotland Tour Packages

Choosing the best time to tour Scotland depends on your interests and the type of experience you're looking for, as the Scottish climate varies throughout the year.

  • Spring/Fall - March to May - Best Season

    Spring (March to May) is a delightful time for touring, with longer daylight hours and the countryside blooming with flowers. This season is ideal for visiting historic sites and cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow, as the weather is generally mild and the tourist crowds are fewer.

  • Summer - June to August - High Season

    Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Scotland, offering the warmest weather and numerous cultural festivals, including the famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe. It's the perfect time for outdoor activities like exploring the Highlands or visiting the Isle of Skye. However, be prepared for more tourists and higher prices during this period.

  • Autumn - September to November

    Autumn (September to November) sees Scotland transform with stunning fall colors, making it a great time for scenic drives and countryside tours. The weather can be unpredictable, ranging from warm sunny days to chilly and wet conditions.

  • Winter - December to February

    Winter (December to February) is cold, and days are short, but it's a magical time for those who enjoy cozy experiences and winter landscapes. Touring the Christmas markets in Edinburgh and Glasgow can be particularly enchanting.

  • Are You Ready to Tour Scotland?

    Are you ready to embark on a journey through Scotland's enchanting landscapes and rich history? This touring destination beckons with its rugged highlands, serene lochs, and historic castles, each telling a story of a bygone era. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow, and discover the tranquil beauty of the Scottish countryside. Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality, the joy of traditional music, and the taste of authentic cuisine. Scotland is more than a destination; it's an adventure into the heart of Celtic heritage.

Scotland Tours Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which side of the road do they drive in Scotland?

    Road trips are a great way to experience Scotland. Driving in Scotland is on the left side of the road (opposite to the US). This means you need to focus a bit more. Sounds obvious, but if you're driving, don't stop suddenly to take photos. The views are sumptuous and you'll be tempted to admire them at every turn. However, it can be dangerous if you don't follow local traffic laws, including the proper use of single-track lanes. Better still, book yourself a Scotland tour and sit back and enjoy the views while your experienced local driver takes you around.

  • What’s included on a Scotland tour?

    Your Scotland tour includes accommodation, transportation, many meals, and lots of guided sightseeing, along with the services of an experienced tour director to ensure your comfort and safety.

  • How much do Scotland tours cost?

    Scotland tours start at around $200 per person per day. Check our website for the latest offers and deals on Scotland vacations.

  • Which is the best Scotland tour?

    It depends on your interests. If you love the outdoors, choose a Scottish Highlands tour or a tour of the glens and isles. If you'd like a mix of urban adventures and nature, we recommend a highlights of Scotland tour. Of course, you can combine your Scotland tour with Ireland, England, and Wales.

Learn More About Scotland Tours

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