Scotland has a lot to offer those looking for an unforgettable family vacation or perhaps a romantic couples' trip. There are several enjoyable activities to partake in in this tiny nation to the north of England, from touring the nation's main attractions to taking part in thrilling outdoor experiences.
There are so many options for those who enjoy sightseeing and taking pictures, especially if you decide to stay in Scotland's cities. And while Scotland's larger cities, like Edinburgh and Glasgow, are among the best places to visit, don't pass up the chance to also travel to some of the region's more charming smaller towns.
Historic Stirling, known as the site of the Battle of Bannockburn, and St. Andrews, the location of the world's most renowned golf course, are favorites among tourists willing to travel further away.
Please have a look at our ranking of the top Scottish cities to ensure that you get the most out of your vacation plans to Scotland.
1.Edinburgh, UK
There are countless things to do in Edinburgh, whether you're staying for a weekend or a week. Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh, is most known for its magnificent medieval castle, which constantly ranks among the most popular tourist destinations in the UK. Nevertheless, there are many more fascinating areas of this lovely city to discover.
The Royal Mile is a lengthy cobblestone boulevard that connects the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It is bordered with various beautiful old townhouses and historic structures, including churches and museums. Also, it's a terrific area to visit whether you want to do some serious souvenir buying or just want to take a break at a top-notch restaurant or café.
Once you've had time to recover, indulge your curiosity and climb some of the steep stairs leading from the Royal Mile into the crannies and courtyards. It's a relaxing distraction. Edinburgh is renowned for its festivals, which include the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the renowned Edinburgh Fringe.
2. Glasgow
Glasgow has evolved from an industrial city to Scotland's cultural hub, making it one of the top travel destinations in the world. Former industrial area along the River Clyde that has been renovated and revitalized over the past few decades has played a role in some of this transition.
On foot, the neighborhood is a treat to explore. Take the opportunity to stop at popular sites along the road, such as the Riverside Museum with its many transportation-related displays and the Glasgow Science Centre, which features a striking titanium exterior and can remind you of a ship's hull.
Walking through Glasgow's main center is also recommended. Attractions include Merchant Square's shopping options, the pedestrian-friendly George Square, and Glasgow Cathedral. Don't forget to stroll through the city's many parks, which are perfect for picnics.
If you wish to base yourself here, day tours from Glasgow make it simple to see the nearby sites. The popular local locations Loch Ness and Loch Lomond.
3. Aberdeen
Aberdeen, often known as "The Flower of Scotland," is home to several parks and gardens, much like Glasgow. By far the most well-known is Duthie Park, the location of one of the largest indoor gardens in the UK and the critically praised David Welch Winter Gardens. You can come here and take in the year-round exhibits of tropical plants and exotic flowers that are housed in a number of sizable greenhouses.
If you go in the spring or summer, be sure to give yourself enough time to explore Duthie's outdoor attractions, which include ponds and flowerbeds. If you remain until dusk, you might even witness a performance of the attraction's well-liked Opera in the Park season.
The historical structures in this old city are attractive for a variety of reasons. The "Silver City" moniker for Aberdeen refers to the silver-gray structures made of local granite that are renowned for sparkling in the sunlight.
4. Dundee
Dundee is a short day trip from Edinburgh and is well-known for its breathtaking river crossings. The Tay Rail Bridge, which spans the Firth of Tay as far as the eye can see from Dundee to the village of Wormit, was built in 1887 and continues to be a stunning engineering achievement that is frequently photographed.
The views are breathtaking as you travel the two miles of steel that make up the structure, which is regarded as one of the best rail journeys in the world. If you can't cross by rail, two viewing platforms provide spectacular vistas of Dundee.
The city's waterfront is merely a short stroll away from the bridge. Top Dundee attractions like Discovery Point, a maritime museum, a number of historic vessels, as well as a family-friendly science museum are now located in this ancient port district, which has undergone a significant makeover.
If you still have the energy, explore Old Town before climbing Dundee Law, an extinct volcano that offers breathtaking views of the city and its iconic rail bridge.
5. Inverness,
A must-do on your trip to Scotland should be exploring the Scottish Highlands. The stunning Highland city of Inverness is the ideal location for your base.
In a nation that, honestly, is full with magnificent panoramas, you're only a short drive from such classic Scottish beauty as Lake Ness and Urquhart Castle, as well as some of the most spectacular views you'll ever experience. You should also bring your hiking boots because this breathtakingly picturesque area has many routes that crisscross its glens and mountains.
Of course, Inverness has its beauties as well. Visit Inverness Castle and the city's cathedral, both of which include areas that are accessible to the general public.
Built in 1890, the historic Victorian Market is a must-see for its fantastic shopping and provides a ton of enjoyable dining options. Searching for a good place to stay in the Highlands and Inverness? Consider making a reservation at the lovely Loch Ness Lodge.
6. Perth
The little city of Perth, which is only a short distance from Dundee and can be reached by train from Edinburgh, giving visitors the chance to cross the renowned Forth Rail Bridge, provides a welcome glimpse of a less hectic Scotland.
Make your way to the River Tay to get things started. The breathtakingly lovely sights can be partially seen from the train, but you'll want to walk back across the river with a camera (or smartphone) in hand to record them for posterity. The Old Town is one of the nicest vistas from Moncrieffe Island's park-like environment.
Speaking of the Old Town, don't forget to stop by the Church of St. Johns, which was built in the middle of the 15th century, as well as the Perth Museum and Art Gallery, which features fascinating local history and artwork displays.
Branklyn Garden is a well-liked destination to visit for its stunning flowerbeds and walking paths if you're there in the spring.
7.Stirling
Stirling, a charming university city, has a lengthy and rich history, particularly in relation to Scotland's ongoing quest for independence. Robert the Bruce, the Scottish monarch, dispatched the English in 1314 from Stirling, which is about 50 minutes' drive from both Edinburgh and Glasgow.
The Bannockburn Heritage Center honors the outstanding victory that became known as the Battle of Bannockburn. The history of the conflict and William Wallace's victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge are presented in excellent displays and exhibits.
The National Wallace Monument, which is nearby on the route to the University of Stirling and the charming town of Bridge of Allan, also honors Wallace. The ramparts of Stirling Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortification that offers entertaining tours by docents in period garb, provide some of the best views of the Wallace Monument.
8. Ayr
The Scottish city of Ayr, which is best known for being the birthplace of Robbie Burns, is well worth seeing. Here, the greatest Scottish poet is honored everywhere.
Follow the Burns' Heritage Trail to Alloway on the outskirts of Ayr to make sure you don't miss any of the best locations associated with this illustrious Scotsman. The cabin where Burns was born is located here, along with a top-notch museum devoted to his life and times.
Dwight Eisenhower is another American icon who will always be associated with the city of Ayr. The renowned general spent some time after the war at Culzean Castle, which is south of the city.
The original apartments he occupied are still available for rent today for a vacation to remember. The property, which is surrounded by over 560 acres of breathtaking scenery, is becoming a popular tourist destination, particularly with Americans.
9. Dumfries
It takes only a short journey from Ayr to reach Dumfries, which is home to several Robbie Burns-related attractions. The poet's previous residence on Burns Street is at the top of the list.
Burns spent his final years in this house, which is now a superb museum devoted to the poet and his life. The museum is regarded as the best thing to do in Dumfries for nothing because it offers free entrance.
The Robert Burns Center and the adjoining St. Michael's Churchyard, which is known for being the poet's final resting place, are also noteworthy. This intriguing site is housed in a mill constructed in the 1700s and offers authentic texts, relics, and exhibits.
The Dumfries Museum is one of the other must-see sights. You may learn a lot about local history and the oldest working camera obscura in the world here. After that, enjoy a wonderful afternoon tea at the famous Molly May's Tea Shop.
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10. St. Andrews
Everybody who has even the slightest interest in golf should make the trip to St. Andrews. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club in St. Andrews, Scotland, was founded in 1754, making it the oldest and most prominent course in the world. It is now considered something of a paradise for golfers. Together with its seven golf courses, the world-class British Golf Museum is also well worth a visit.
There is a lot more to see and do in this area that is unrelated to golf. The oldest university in the nation is located in St. Andrews, which is also one of the best places to stay when classes are out.
There are many wonderful beaches in the vicinity of St. Andrews, with West Sands Beach being the most well-known. Its two-mile stretch of sand is only a short distance from the golf course and is perfect for a stroll.
11. Fort William,
At the southern end of the Caledonian Canal, the bustling coastal resort of Fort William serves as a fantastic jumping off place for excursions into the pristine Northwest Highlands and Ben Nevis.
During the First Jacobite Rising, Fort William itself—after which the town subsequently took its name—was constructed in 1654. The West Highland Museum, which is well-known for its vast collections of historical paintings, weapons, furniture, and Highland garb, is one of the town's attractions.
Glenfinnan Viaduct is a fantastic day trip from Fort William and is well known for appearing in several Harry Potter films. Also, you can take a steam excursion on the Jacobite steam train over the bridge, which is regarded as one of the most breathtaking rail journeys in the entire world.
Ben Nevis, one of Scotland's most well-known natural wonders and a major lure for outdoor enthusiasts, is also easily accessible.
12. Dunfermline
Famous as Scotland's former capital, Dunfermline later prospered via coal mining and damask textile production. The 11th-century foundation walls of Malcolm Canmore's Tower in Pittencrieff Gardens make it an ideal place to start a tour of the town. The historic Benedictine Abbey in the city, built in the 12th century, is very interesting to see.
The little cottage on Moodie Street where Andrew Carnegie was born in 1835 is now home to the Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum, another well-liked tourist attraction. The story of how this underprivileged weaver's son became one of history's richest industrialists and greatest philanthropists is told in detail in a vast array of photographs and papers.
13. Oban
The charming village of Oban, which is about an hour's drive from Fort William, is well worth considering on your Scotland vacation itinerary. Its bay and harbor area, which are protected by the nearby island Kerrera, complete the area's gorgeous backdrop (be sure to include the ferry ride to the island in your visit).
Whatever your hobbies, Oban has a ton of exciting things to offer, and the town itself makes a fantastic starting point for trips to the nearby islands, notably Staffa and Iona, which are well-known for sea kayaking and other outdoor activities.
Oban is also incredibly walkable, whether you decide to take a leisurely stroll along the lovely Corran Esplanade or up McCaig's Tower by way of its 144 steps. Even better, visit both locations because they both have breathtaking vistas.
For those who prefer to spend more than one day visiting Oban and its surroundings, there are several wonderful little inns and classic B&Bs.
Falkirk 14.
The town of Falkirk is worth a visit and is only a 30-minute train ride away from Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland (and on the rail line to Stirling). The Falkirk Wheel and the renowned Kelpies are two of the main attractions in this area.
The Falkirk Wheel, which connects the old Union Canal to the Forth and Clyde Canal, was constructed in 2002 and is a wonder of contemporary engineering. It can hoist eight boats at once. A cruise and a behind-the-scenes tour of the Wheel should definitely be scheduled in addition to seeing the attraction's educational visitor center.
The renowned Kelpies are about a 15-minute drive away from here (or a fun canal tour). These towering 30-meter-tall statues, which resemble horses' heads, dominate the landscape and make for a truly original selfie backdrop.