Scotland Tourism

From stupefying castles and sceneries worth drooling over, to lush green gardens and museums that serve as a gateway to the times gone by, Scotland is a travel destination loved by millions. Scotland also embraces in its folds, some of the best whiskies, and hosts a number of vibrant festivals through the year welcoming people from around the world to join them in this celebration called life. 

Scotland is not just a country; it is an experience, one worth having at least once in your life. Here, we tell you every little detail you need to know about Scotland, if you are planning to head there for an exciting trip. Once you are done reading this, you will have no anxiety or worries about your vacation to Scotland. 

Highlights of Scotland

Cities to visit

When deciding which cities to visit in Scotland, the capital is unmissable. Edinburgh is the hub of culture in Scotland. All year long, various plays, musical evenings, literary meets and the rest, keep happening in this vivacious city. When in Edinburgh, you must plan a hike up to Arthur’s Seat to get the most splendid view of the city. Though the trek is not a difficult one, make sure you carry strong and comfortable shoes. Edinburgh is also widely known for its pub culture, and so, when in the city, take care to pop into a few.   

If you are in Scotland for its music, then the city you cannot miss out on is Glasgow. From SWG3, space where most of the creative events take place, to Sub Club, this city has some of the finest clubbing centres in Scotland. Apart from that, Glasgow is also famous for its breweries and distilleries, the most famous ones being Drygate Brewery and Clydeside Distillery where you can try some of the finest and some of the most experimental beers. The theatre scene at Glasgow is also what makes the city popular among culture lovers. The Kings Theatre, the Pavilion Theatre, and Theatre Royal Glasgow should definitely be on your list.  

The Scottish Highlands give you the real taste of Scotland. The sceneries are to die for, while the people warm your heart with their hospitability and tenderness. When in the Highlands, there are a million things to partake in because of the diversity of terrain. You have the isles, the castles, the steam train through the most beatific routes, and the hill circuit of Quiraing, among other experiences lined up for you when you are planning a trip to the Highlands. 

Tourist spots

In Scotland, one of the most iconic sites is the Edinburgh Castle. Built in the 12th century, the fortress was home to kings and queens for centuries. Today it is a spot that vacationers just cannot get enough of. The Margaret’s Chapel in the Castle is the oldest edifice in the city of Edinburgh, which makes the Castle even more of a tourist magnet. The other attractions within the Edinburgh Castle are the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. 

For travellers who want to get their thoughts arrested by stunning scenic sights, then Loch Lomond is the destination worth going to see. Northwest of the busy city of Glasgow, Loch Lomond, or the Queen of Scottish Lakes, is the largest Scottish loch. Once you make it there, visit the Trossachs National Park for a day of wildlife spotting. You can boat here and can also hike the regal Ben Lomond for even more splendid views of the lake and the national park. 

A trip to Skye, the largest Scottish inner isle is one of the most romantic getaways. Consider this: the greenest valleys that you have ever set eyes on, the most remarkable waterfalls that fill your senses with vigour, spotting over two hundred exquisite species of birds, sandy beaches that in sunlight look like powdered gold strewn across, doesn’t the sound of it all already relax you? Now wonder how it will feel to actually be there!   

Fort William with its meandering paths that lead you to other scenic sites, such as the 13th century Inverlochy Castle, and the Commando Memorial, a mile away from Spean Bridge, is a top tourist spot in Scotland. For Harry Potter fans, the biggest attraction here is a journey on the Jacobite steam train. This train will take you over the Glenfinnan Viaduct which also carried Hogwarts Express several times in the movie series. You might want to memorize a few spells before you get on this magical express! 

Shopping in Scotland 

Scotland makes for a great shopping destination, especially for winter wear. The tweed town of Scotland, Hawick is located in the Scottish Borders area. Once you arrive here, be sure to fill your shopping cart with some of the finest knitwear that you will ever set your heart on. The luxury wool that is available here will leave you spellbound. 

The Scottish cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh are rapidly developing into shopper’s paradises. The Princes Square in Glasgow will spoil you for choices with its display of international and local makes. From intricate accessories to stunning artworks, you will find everything you need here. To make the shopping experience even more splendid, try to end it with a bowl of delicious soup and a plate of scrumptious sandwiches from one of the cafes at the mall.  

Cuisine in Scotland 

Scotland does not make for a great vacation destination only because of its grand landscapes, regal monuments, vivacious music spaces, and shopping delights; the country is also known for its flavourful cuisine, that leaves your stomach and your heart full at the same time. 

When in Scotland, the first food item that you should be trying is the national dish. Haggis is spicy meat pudding that will overtake your senses with its aroma while the mashed potatoes and turnips that are served along will hearten you with their tender taste.  

The seafood in Scotland needs a special mention here. The traditional fish dishes that you must try includes the Scottish smoked soup called Cullen Skink, the baked Finnan Haddock, and the robust brunch special, Kedgeree. The Scots have a love affair with tender meat which is sure to rub off on you too! 

For vegetarians too, Scotland has a lot to offer. From smouldering mushroom preparations to grilled corn recipes and mozzarella koftas that will titillate your tongue, there is something special to eat for everyone in Scotland. There are several Indian restaurants and eateries in Scotland in case on some days you miss the taste of home. 

Interesting facts about Scotland

• The unicorn is Scotland’s national animal. Yes, you read that right! The mythical creature, which is a symbol of innocence and purity while also being associated with stories of bravery is the country’s national animal. 
• Scotland is considered the home of golf since the Scots have been playing the game since almost 15th century. 
• Scotland has the world’s shortest commercial flight. It flies you a distance of 1.5 miles which roughly takes 47 seconds! 

Location of Scotland

Scotland is located in the European continent. It is a part of the United Kingdom. It borders England in the southeast while the Atlantic Ocean nestles it from the north and the west. 

Best time to travel to Scotland

The good news about travelling to Scotland is that you can visit the country whenever you want. It is a good travel destination throughout the year. Nonetheless, the peak travel season to the Land of the Scots is in the months between April and September. It is during this time that Scotland welcomes visitors with open arms to come and embraces them in full bloom. Early summers are the best when it comes to wildlife spotting. In August, the capital city of Edinburgh hosts the Edinburgh Festivals which you must attend if you are a fan of culture and literature. The Highland Games, the renowned Scottish games, are also held in August in Dunoon, Scotland.  

The winters, that is November to March, is a good time too, however, it might get really chilly and so be sure to carry heavy cashmere and woollen garments along. Also, check in advance which of the attractions are open to travellers because during winters, owing to the weather, some famous spots might be closed. 

How to get to Scotland

By Air: The most convenient way to get to Scotland is definitely by air. The Edinburgh airport is considered one of the busiest in the United Kingdom. You have to cover a distance of about 8 miles from the city centre to get to the airport. If you are entering Scotland from Glasgow, then you should know that there are two airports in this city.   

By Train: For intercity travel, trains are a good option. All the major cities and tourist destinations of Scotland are well-connected through rails. In fact, this is a great way to see the country as you travel through its gorgeous landscapes, breathing in each sight as you move from one city to another. In Scotland, the First ScotRail runs a maximum of the trains. 

If you decide to choose this way of traveling through Scotland, then the first thing to keep in mind is the various types of tickets that are available. You have Single tickets, the ones that offer Day return, you can choose tickets that are super saver, among others. Choose the one that fits your requirements the best. 

By Road: You can tour through the country by roads too. If you want to do a road trip through Scotland, then there are many routes which are great to drive through plus give you some of the best views to capture. The most famous of these courses is the Snow Roads Scenic Route. A bus ride could also be an option as bus services are available in all the Scottish major cities. 

History of Scotland

Scotland has a very fascinating history which attracts people as much as its art, music, literature, and landscapes. You cannot expect anything less than extraordinary from a story that involves skilled Romans, resilient Vikings, commanding Monarchs, and free thinkers all of whom called Scotland home at one point or the other in history.  

Scotland was founded in as early as the 843 AD. Since then, the country has seen several rulers who came and added to the country and its culture. In 2014, a historic referendum was passed to determine Scotland’s independence from the British Union. 45 per cent of the population voted in favour of it.

Did reading about Scotland make you want to book your vacation immediately? If so, let us do the needful for you. Write to us about your requirements and your queries, and we will plan the most remarkable trip to Scotland.