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. At roughly the same size as South Carolina, Scotland is small enough to explore the highlights in one week. However, you'll need at least two weeks to explore the mainland and one or even two extra weeks to take in the major islands.
From touring ancient castles to sampling local whisky to walking along serene beaches, there's plenty to do on a five-day trip to Scotland. You can keep things basic with a three-stop tour that takes you from the beautiful city of Edinburgh to the mountainous region of Glencoe. Or, make the most of your stay by visiting five destinations, including the Highland capital of Inverness and the coastal village of John O'Groats.
Thanks to Scotland's size and well-maintained roads, you can visit 3-4 regions in six days. History buffs will appreciate a tour of Culloden Battlefield and a stop at the Clava Cairns, while whisky lovers will enjoy distillery-hopping from Edinburgh to Inverness. Those keen on culture and cuisine can attend a Royal Scottish National Orchestra performance and partake in a Glasgow tasting tour. Active travelers eager to immerse in the natural environment can hike the Highlands and snorkel at Ganavan Bay.
Seven days in Scotland gives you ample time to see its historic cities, breathtaking mountains, magnificent castles, and stunning coastlines. How you spend your week depends on just how adventurous you want to be. You can visit three to four destinations from Edinburgh into the Highlands or take an active trip to two natural areas like Cairngorms or Craignure.
You can hit at least four regions on an eight-day road trip around Scotland. Active travelers and outdoor enthusiasts can try canyoning at Bruar Falls, mountain biking in the Highlands, sea kayaking around the Isle of Skye, and hiking at Ben Vrackie. Whisky connoisseurs will enjoy a tasting at Clydeside Distillery and a whisky masterclass at Blair Atholl Distillery, while road-tripping photographers can drive through the Highlands to Scotland's northernmost tip on the scenic North Coast 500.
Well-maintained roads and Scotland's small size make it possible to visit at least three regions in nine days. Active travelers will enjoy a multiday trek on the West Highland Way and e-biking on the Isle of Skye. Whisky enthusiasts will appreciate a single malt masterclass at Dalwhinnie Distillery and the chance to visit the country's only cooperage. Those keen on culture can opt for a music or street art tour in Glasgow and consider timing their trip to partake in the Pitlochry Highland Games festivities.
Ten days in Scotland is a great amount of time to delve into the country's diverse beauty and deep history. Opt for a fast-paced self-drive tour and explore the dramatic Isle of Skye and the bustling cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow on a highlights tour. Or, embrace serene landscapes as you island-hop through Oban, Mull, and Skye. Leisurely travelers will love exploring by train, while those eager to see it all can whizz around on an itinerary featuring the North Coast 500.
You can visit at least six regions on an 11-day tour of Scotland. Whisky aficionados will savor tastings along the Raasay Whisky Trail and make a mini barrel at Speyside Cooperage. At the same time, history buffs will appreciate an Edinburgh historic tour and a visit to Culloden Battlefield. Active travelers can trek the West Highland Way or try sea kayaking at the Isle of Skye, and those keen on culture can try their hand at kilt-making or attend the Pitlochry Highland Games (if they time their travels right).
With 12 days in Scotland, you can experience the welcoming cities of Edinburgh and Inverness, the historic castles of Aberdeenshire, and the forested Cairngorms National Park on a well-rounded highlights tour. Or, focus your time on the dreamy islands of Arran, Mull, and Skye with a culture-infused itinerary. Other options include an active adventure featuring hikes in the Isle of Skye, Fort William, and Glen Coe, and a self-drive trip focused on Scotland's famed and lesser-visited whisky distilleries.
Scotland's size and efficient trains make it possible to visit at least four regions in 13 days. Whisky lovers will enjoy sampling spirits along the Speyside Whisky Trail. Arts and culture enthusiasts can experience Glasgow's music scene and go gallery-hopping in Aberdeen. Outdoorsy travelers can trek the West Highland Way and sea kayak off the Isle of Skye, while those seeking a multicountry adventure should consider a road trip that includes a Loch Ness cruise and a drive along Ireland's Ring of Kerry.
Two weeks in Scotland is enough time to experience the country's best adventures, from coast to coast. On a fast-paced self-drive highlights tour, tick off nine different destinations, or slow the pace but increase the activities on a West Highland Way tour or an active Scotland adventure. Those eager to see the highlights along the famous Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring can include Ireland in their itinerary, while travelers who prefer getting off the main trail will love an island-hopping adventure.
