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Introducing Scotland

The romantic landscapes and dramatic features of this small territory make travelers feel like the region is much larger than it actually is. Pair that with a friendly culture, plenty of outdoor adventure, and incredible seafood, and Scotland is the trip that stays with visitors long after they leave.

When is the best time to visit?
As a year-round destination with distinct seasons, travelers should pick the time they visit on what they plan to do. Spring, summer, and fall are better for outdoor recreation, while winter is a popular time to explore the holiday festivals and seasonal cheer.

Where to go in Scotland?
Delight your senses at the bright green rolling hills of the Isle of Skye, enjoy the fun-oriented culture of Glasgow, camp out or trek the mountains surround Loch Lomond, learn about the history and architecture of Edinburgh, and tour the distilleries of Islay.

Thinking about traveling around the United Kingdom? Learn more about planning a trip to England or Wales. Many travelers also combine their trip to the UK with a visit to Ireland.

How many days do I need?
You can briefly get to know Edinburgh in about 3 days, but to experience the breadth of opportunities Scotland has to offer, upwards of 1 or 2 weeks is much preferable.

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Scotland Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Etive Mor waterfall, Glencoe
Map of Scottish Highlands Self-Drive Tour: Edinburgh, Inverness & Loch Ness - 8 Days
Scottish Highlands Self-Drive Tour: Edinburgh, Inverness & Loch Ness - 8 Days

Discover the enchanting history and dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands with this 8-day self-drive itinerary. Starting in Edinburgh,  drive north to the rugged highlands, where you’ll explore ancient castles, visit important battle sites, sail Loch Ness, and ride the world’s most scenic railway.

Scotland's Edinburgh Castle has stood for over 1,000 years
Map of Scotland & Ireland - 14 Days
Scotland & Ireland - 14 Days

Fourteen days is ample time to experience the best of Scotland and Ireland, be it touring Edinburgh, hiking the Highlands, or reveling in the historic streets of Dublin. The adventures are almost too many to list: wildlife safaris in national parks, boating across Loch Ness, cycling around Glasgow, and exploring the untamed beauty of the Isle of Skye. If that's not enough, you'll hit the road on a drive to some of the most beautiful locales in southern Ireland, like the Wicklow Mountains and County Cork.

Neist Point at Isle of Skye
Map of Best of Scotland: Edinburgh & the Highlands - 7 Days
Best of Scotland: Edinburgh & the Highlands - 7 Days

This seven-day adventure combines Scotland's most memorable tourist destinations with a tour of the countryside in the magnificent Scottish highlands. You will start your trip by exploring Edinburgh's galleries, castles, and pubs before heading to the spectacular castles in Inverness. You'll spend two nights in Portree, where you'll visit castles and famous geological sites and tour the hiking routes before traveling to Glencoe, which is home to spectacular scenery.

The ruins of Castle Urquhart at Loch Ness
Map of Scenic Scotland: Edinburgh, Inverness & Skye - 7 Days
Scenic Scotland: Edinburgh, Inverness & Skye - 7 Days

This week-long itinerary perfectly introduces Scotland's most scenic locales—blending a self-drive adventure with unforgettable guided excursions and experiences. Beginning and ending in the charming capital of Edinburgh, you'll set off into the rugged Highlands for a road trip to remember. Step back in time at the Culloden Battlefield, cruise the legendary waters of Loch Ness, and tour whisky distilleries on the Isle of Skye.

Driving toward Ben Stack on the NC500
Map of The North Coast 500: Road Trip through the Scottish Highlands  - 5 Days
The North Coast 500: Road Trip through the Scottish Highlands - 5 Days

Experience one of the world's most scenic driving routes on this 5-day journey along Scotland's North Coast 500. Beginning and ending in the Highland capital of Inverness, you'll follow the loop counterclockwise as you wind your way past mist-shrouded mountains, hidden lochs, and rugged coastlines. A relaxed pace allows you to take your time and explore plenty of sandy beaches, charming fishing villages, and unspoiled nature.

The Old Man of Storr overlooking Skye's coast.
Map of Hike Scotland's Highlands & Islands: Glen Coe, Ben Nevis & the Isle of Skye - 9 Days
Hike Scotland's Highlands & Islands: Glen Coe, Ben Nevis & the Isle of Skye - 9 Days

This active 9-day hiking itinerary travels through some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes. Starting in the heart of the Highlands, you’ll walk along the West Highland Way, experiencing the wild beauty of Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe. The first leg of your walking journey ends at the adventure capital of Fort William, where you’ll get the chance to scale Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak. After a memorable ride on the historic Jacobite Express Steam Train, board a ferry for the Isle of Skye, where you’ll have three days to explore the rugged mountains, secluded coves, and idyllic villages of the Inner Hebrides.

Make the Most of Your Time in Scotland

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
A Scot plays the bagpipes in Edinburgh
How Many Days to Spend in Scotland

From ancient castles to whisky distilleries and Highland Games (not to mention a mythical monster in Loch Ness), there's a reason bonnie Scotland is awash with "Outlander" fans....

Scotland Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
Sunrise, Loch Lomond
Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in Scotland

Conjuring up romance effortlessly and with subtlety, Scotland is a stunning destination in which to celebrate your love for each other. For the backdrop to your honeymoon here,...

Our Latest Scotland Content

Start your trip with a walk along Edinburgh's Royal Mile, home of the Scotch Whiskey Experience
Map of Scottish Whisky Adventure in  Edinburgh, Inverness & Glasgow - 8 Days
Scottish Whisky Adventure in Edinburgh, Inverness & Glasgow - 8 Days

Spend eight fun-filled days indulging in the finest whisky Scotland offers, starting in Edinburgh with a visit to the Johnnie Walker distillery and a private whisky and artisan food tour. From there, pick up your rental car and drive to Inverness for a tour of two Speyside distilleries. This is where you can admire the natural beauty of the Isle of Skye while you taste smoky whiskies characteristic of the island's terroir. Finish the adventure in Glasgow by creating your own bottle of Clydeside whisky to take home.

Look for iconic Highland cows as you explore the rugged Isle of Skye
Map of Soul-Stirring Scotland: Edinburgh, Stirling, Fort William, Skye & Pitlochry - 11 Days
Soul-Stirring Scotland: Edinburgh, Stirling, Fort William, Skye & Pitlochry - 11 Days

This action-packed 11-day itinerary squeezes the best of Scotland into a fast-paced trip. Starting in Edinburgh, you'll strut down the Royal Mile before renting a car and beginning an epic road trip. Wander the halls of Stirling Castle, hike up Conic Hill for views of Loch Lomond, and admire dramatic Highland scenes in Glen Coe. Cross to the Isle of Skye to discover nature's beauty and meet a local artist. Then join a whisky tasting and wildlife safari around Pitlochry before returning to the capital.

Cover a lot of ground as you explore Scotland's Westy Highland Way and overnight in Bridge of Orchy
Map of 16 Days in Scotland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
16 Days in Scotland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With over two weeks in Scotland, you can visit up to 11 towns and cities on a fast-paced itinerary. First-timers will want to hit the highlights like castles in Edinburgh, Stirling, and Aberdeen, while whiskey lovers should experience Scottish culture by distillery-hopping. For a hiking focus, walk some of the scenic West Highland Way or have adventure experiences like canyoning at Bruar Falls. Add a trip to Ireland to drive its scenic southern coast that includes the famous the Ring of Kerry.

Scotland Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 5 Days in Scotland - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Scotland - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 1 Week in Scotland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Scotland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 10 Days in Scotland - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Scotland - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Scotland
Travel specialist Jane Davey
active 1 min ago

Jane Davey

Born and raised in the UK, I’ve always had a love affair with the great outdoors. It’s no wonder I ended up in travel! Growing up, family holidays meant exploring the UK with my parents and...

read more...
Travel specialist Stephen Molloy
active 1 min ago

Stephen Molloy

Urbanist by training, he spent most of his twenties traveling and living overseas. Bitten by the bug, he lived in Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, California, Australia, DRC, Kenya, Pakistan...and...

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Travel specialist Aleksandra Shebaltseva
active 1 min ago

Aleksandra Shebaltseva

As a passionate traveler, my approach is anchored in the belief that every journey is an opportunity for exploration and growth. With a penchant for immersing myself in diverse cultures and seeking...

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Travel specialist Kateryna Garkavenko
active 1 min ago

Kateryna Garkavenko

Travel is truly one of the most rewarding experiences we can have. It's amazing how much we can learn and grow from every trip, and I believe that most people will benefit from exploring new...

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Trip Reviews for Scotland

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Amazing 12 person family trip to Scotland
Scotland | Jun 22 - Jun 30, 2025

A
Anne W.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 08, 2025

Our 12 person family trip to Scotland was amazing! A trip of a lifetime! And Kateryna our travel agent was incredible! She helped us plan a trip for 12 to 5 different towns and cities, starting in Edinburgh, and ending in Glasgow. We had two amazing drivers, Marco and Eri, who helped make the trip and excursions seem less. From the Inns to the restaurant suggestions, tours and hikes we couldn’t have asked for a better trip. I highly recommend visiting The isle of Skye, hiking its magical hills and mountains and its small towns like Portree. We will definitely use Kimkim and Katyrina again!

Local specialist: Kateryna Garkavenko
Kateryna
Kateryna Garkavenko
Local specialist in London | Replied on Jul 11, 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 It truly was a pleasure working with your wonderful group, and I’m so glad to hear that your family trip to Scotland was a trip of a lifetime! From Edinburgh to Glasgow and all the magical spots in between, it sounds like everything came together perfectly. Your photos filled me with so much joy, and I’ll be carrying that happiness with me for the year ahead 😁 I’m so glad that Marco, Eri, and I could help make your journey smooth and memorable, and... Read more

Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 It truly was a pleasure working with your wonderful group, and I’m so glad to hear that your family trip to Scotland was a trip of a lifetime! From Edinburgh to Glasgow and all the magical spots in between, it sounds like everything came together perfectly.

Your photos filled me with so much joy, and I’ll be carrying that happiness with me for the year ahead 😁

I’m so glad that Marco, Eri, and I could help make your journey smooth and memorable, and that you enjoyed exploring places like the Isle of Skye and Portree!

I can’t wait for the opportunity to help plan your next adventure – I’ll be here whenever you’re ready!

Warmest wishes,
Kateryna 🌟

We had a wonderful time on our recent self-dr...
Scotland | Jun 20 - Jun 28, 2025

K
Kathleen E.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 07, 2025

We had a wonderful time on our recent self-driving tour of Scotland and Shetland! Aleksandra was incredibly responsive and worked with me to create a trip that worked with our budget. Adding the extra trip to Shetland made this a unique experience for us and having someone that helped with the planning and deciding where to stay was really helpful.

Local specialist: Aleksandra Shebaltseva
Aleksandra
Aleksandra Shebaltseva
Local specialist in England | Replied on Jul 08, 2025

Dear Kathleen,

Oh, what a joy to read this! 🥰
Thank you so much for trusting me with your adventure and for letting me play a small part in your beautiful story. Wishing you many more journeys just as memorable — and if the road ever winds back this way, you know where to find me!

Warmly,
Aleksandra

An unforgettable trip to Northern Ireland and Scotland thanks to Salome and kimkim!
Scotland | Jun 22 - Jul 5, 2025

J
John C.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA | Reviewed on Jul 06, 2025
We had an absolutely wonderful time on this trip to Northern Ireland and Scotland! Salome did an extraordinary job planning the trip, and patiently took into account our many updates and requests. We ran into just a couple of minor hiccups during the trip, but Salome and kimkim were instantly reachable and quickly (within minutes) resolved them. I would highly recommend kimkim to anyone, and will definitely use them again in the future. During this trip, we visited Belfast, Glasgow,... Read more

We had an absolutely wonderful time on this trip to Northern Ireland and Scotland! Salome did an extraordinary job planning the trip, and patiently took into account our many updates and requests. We ran into just a couple of minor hiccups during the trip, but Salome and kimkim were instantly reachable and quickly (within minutes) resolved them. I would highly recommend kimkim to anyone, and will definitely use them again in the future.

During this trip, we visited Belfast, Glasgow, Inverness, Isle of Skye, and Edinburgh. Kimkim reserved excellent hotels for us at each location, with the highlight being the Tigerlily in Edinburgh. Of these locations, Isle of the Skye was the only one where we ran into any difficulties. Not only is Isle of Skye out of the way, it is also not equipped for the large number of tourists it receives. We stayed in Portree, the largest town on the Isle, and found it very difficult to find restaurants with availabilities for dinner. Most restaurants and shops there close relatively early. Private transportation and taxi service is difficult to arrange as well.

One other note is that while kimkim arranged for private transportation for most transition points, we did have to move our own luggage to and from the train stations to our local hotels. This was typically a 10 to 20 minute walk that could be uphill over ragged streets. We probably would have chosen this over any additional expense, but others may feel differently.

Hotel Review
Tigerlily
Edinburgh

This is a truly exceptional hotel! The lobby is absolutely gorgeous, the room was massive and elegant, and the hotel and wait staff could not have been more gracious and helpful. I could not give a higher recommendation for this hotel!

Authenticity & Character
Very modern and elegant boutique hotel
Location
Great location in the newer part of Edinburgh near many shops, restaurants, and pubs.
Staff
I have never felt more welcomed than by Tigerlily's hotel and wait staff. They were incredible!
Cleanliness & Comfort
A true 5-star experience!
Activity Review
Eat Walk Glasgow
Eat Walk Glasgow
Glasgow

The food and drinks on this tour were fabulous, and each stop presented a unique view of Glasgow. However, the true highlight of the tour was Megan, our tour guide. Megan was full of personality and highly knowledgeable about the venues, the food, and Glasgow in general. She made the tour a very enjoyable experience for all of us.

Quality of Experience
Great choice of venues
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Megan was exceptional. She was so fun to talk to and had an impressive knowledge of Glasgow.
Local specialist: Salomé Deroyer
Salomé
Salomé Deroyer
Local specialist in Lyon | Replied on Jul 07, 2025

Hi John,
Thank you so much for your heartfelt review. It was a pleasure to create such a memorable trip for all 6 of you!
I'm especially glad you liked the Tigerlily hotel, it is one of the team's favorite in Edinburgh!
Thank you again for traveling with us, and I do hope to hear from you soon for future trips! 😊
All the best,
Salomé & the High Point Holidays Team

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