Explore Scotland: The Essential Guide

Exploring Scotland

Scotland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, where rugged mountains meet serene lochs, and windswept beaches stretch along dramatic coastlines. From the sweeping vistas of the Scottish Highlands to the enchanting Isle of Skye, the natural beauty is unparalleled. Hiking through vast forests, exploring ancient castles, or cruising across tranquil lochs, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had.

Whilst natural beauty might be Scotland’s shining star, it also has a deep and rich cultural heritage woven into every corner of the country. Historic sites like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile bring the nation’s storied past to life. The vibrant festivals, like the Edinburgh Fringe, and traditional artforms, such as bagpipes and ceilidh dancing, showcase the spirited culture that has captivated visitors for centuries.

Whatever kind of traveler you are, Scotland has something magical for you.

What should I know before I go to Scotland? 

What currency is used in Scotland? 

The currency used in Scotland is the British Pound (GBP). Symbolized as £.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, alongside Apple pay and Google Pay. Some establishments are cashless but it may be useful to carry a small amount of money for visiting small shops, markets or similar places. ATMs are commonly available and often free to use, though some may charge a small transaction fee (foreign exchange and withdrawal fees could also apply). Be sure to check your bank’s travel information to avoid any issues.

How Expensive is Scotland to visit? 

How Expensive is accommodation in Scotland?

Budget: Hostels or budget hotels can cost around £20–£50 per night. Airbnb rentals might be in a similar range, depending on location.

Mid-range: A 3-star hotel or private B&B could cost £70–£150 per night for a double room.

Luxury: High-end hotels or castle stays can run £200–£500+ per night.

How Expensive is food in Scotland?

Budget: You can grab a quick meal from cafes or takeaway spots for about £5–£10. Supermarkets for snacks and ready meals will also be cost-effective.

Mid-range: Dining at a mid-range restaurant might cost £15–£30 for a main course.

Luxury: Fine dining restaurants can easily cost £40+ for a meal, especially in major cities like Edinburgh.

How Expensive is transport in Scotland?

Public Transport: City buses in Edinburgh or Glasgow cost around £1.80–£2.50 for a single trip. Trains and buses between cities can be affordable if booked in advance, with prices starting from £10–£20.

Car Rental: Renting a car can cost £30–£50 per day, but gas prices and parking in cities can add up.

Taxis: Typically £2–£3 for the first mile, and around £1–£2 for every additional mile.

How Expensive are experiences in Scotland?

Free: Many museums, galleries, and outdoor attractions (like hiking) are free or low-cost, such as trekking up Arthur’s Seat, meandering down the Royal Mile, or even scaling Ben Nevis.

Paid: Attractions like Edinburgh Castle or the Palace of Holyroodhouse can cost £15–£20 for entry. Some tours, such as whisky distillery tours, might cost around £10–£25. Additionally, there are some great multi day trips leaving the cities to explore some of the remote areas of the Scottish Highlands although these tend to be on the pricier side 

What is the weather like in Scotland? 

Scotland is known for volatile weather for such a temperate part of the world. The winter can bring extremely cold snaps breaching -10°C (14°F) in some parts, there can also be extremely heavy rain and high winds. But for the most part, as long as you’re prepared to pack a raincoat and a thick jumper or two, the weather is unlikely to be too extreme.

Summer (June - August): 15°C (59°F) - 18°C (64°F)

Typically mild, with temperatures rarely reaching extreme heat. The warmest months are July and August, with average highs in the mid-teens to low twenties (°C).

Autumn/Fall (September - November): 6°C (43°F) - 14°C (57°F)

Cool, crisp days and the beautiful changing colors of the leaves. September can still feel relatively mild, but by October and November, you’ll feel a chill in the air. Expect rain.

Winter (December - February): 3°C (37°F) - 4°C (39°F)

Often cold, particularly in the Highlands and northern regions, with temperatures below freezing in many areas. Snowfall is common in the mountains. Rain and strong winds are frequent.

Spring (March - May): 5°C (41°F) - 12°C (54°F)

Spring weather can be variable, with chilly days, especially in early March. As the season progresses, temperatures rise, however, it’s still common to experience light to moderate rain.

What language do people speak in Scotland?

The primary language in Scotland is English (albeit with the unique Scottish accent). Some Scottish people also speak Scots and Scottish Gaelic, although these are significantly less common. Any tourist would be fine with just English.

Where to go in Scotland? 

Edinburgh

The capital of Scotland has a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Arthur’s Seat, a dormant volcano offering panoramic views, the city is home to iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle. Wander the medieval Royal Mile, explore the historic Old Town with its narrow alleys, or visit the elegant Georgian New Town. 

Edinburgh is also famous for its festivals, especially the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival, held every August. For history buffs, the National Museum of Scotland offers a fascinating look at the country’s past.

If you love the royal family, the Palace of Holyroodhouse provides insight into royal life. With a lively dining scene, cozy pubs, and beautiful green spaces, Edinburgh offers a mix of experiences perfect for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking history, nature, or vibrant arts, Edinburgh has something for everyone.

See more things to do in Edinburgh here

Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, is a vibrant mix of history, culture, green spaces, and exciting attractions. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, outdoor enthusiast, or visiting with family, there’s something for everyone in this lively city. Plus, with so many free attractions, it's a budget-friendly city to explore!

Explore some of Scotland's most culturally significant attractions, Glasgow cathedral and the Necropolis. Spend some time visiting the Celtic stadium or watch a West End production in the King's theatre. Roam the botanic gardens, or nearby Drummond safari park.

See our full Glasgow guide here

Inverness

Nestled along the banks of the River Ness, Inverness serves as the ideal gateway for exploring the Highlands, with world-famous sites like Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield, and the Isle of Skye all within easy reach. Whether you’re soaking in the city’s rich heritage at Inverness Castle, enjoying a scenic riverside walk, or setting off on a Highland adventure, Inverness offers a warm and welcoming base for travelers. With excellent accommodations, lively pubs, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to stay while discovering Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes.

See our full Inverness guide here

Saint Andrews

St Andrews, is renowned as the birthplace of golf and home to one of the world’s oldest universities. Visitors can explore the iconic St Andrews Links, where golf has been played for over 600 years, and visit the British Golf Museum to learn about the sport’s rich history. The town is also famous for its stunning medieval ruins, including St Andrews Castle and St Andrews Cathedral, both offering fascinating glimpses into Scotland’s past. Wander through the picturesque streets, discover independent shops, or relax on the beautiful West Sands Beach. St Andrews is also known for its vibrant university life, with historic buildings and lovely gardens to explore, such as the Botanic Garden. Whether you're a golf enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover, St Andrews offers a unique mix of heritage, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination in Scotland.

The Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands offer some of Scotland’s most dramatic and beautiful landscapes. The Highlands are renowned for towering mountains, deep lochs, and vast glens, ideal for hiking, cycling, and outdoor adventures. On the Isle of Skye, known for its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and mystical scenery, you can explore iconic spots like the Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Pools. For a more serene experience, take a scenic drive along the North Coast 500 route or visit Loch Ness to search for its legendary monster. The Highlands are steeped in history, with ancient castles like Eilean Donan and historic battlefields to discover. You can also visit traditional whisky distilleries and quaint villages like Plockton and Fort William. Whether you’re seeking outdoor exploration, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful retreat in nature, the Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye offer unforgettable experiences.

Things to do in Scotland you can’t miss 

Scotland offers thousands of exciting things to do, from exquisite dining to incredible hiking. Maybe even consider combining the two by climbing to the top of Arthur's seat and enjoying a picnic overlooking Edinburgh. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a bit of a history buff, here are some of the absolute best activities that cannot be missed on your trip.

Be an Edinburgh tourist

Go to Edinburgh, walk the Royal Mile, scale Edinburgh Castle, go on a ghost tour, do all of the classic things that your friends and family are going to ask about when you go home. Special mention here to the Camera Obscura museum which boasts some fantastic optical illusions and a fun afternoon to break up the culture overload. There's an overwhelming amount of things to do in Edinburgh, listing them all wouldn't do any of them justice

Experience some Harry Potter magic 

A large amount of the Harry Potter film series was produced in Scotland - and there are a lot of Harry Potter walking tours throughout Scotland showing off some of the best film sets, and telling you that J.K. Rowling had a coffee at this very cafe; but by far the most interesting Harry Potter experience in Scotland is seeing (and sometimes riding) the Jacobite Train - potentially more commonly known as the Hogwarts Express. There are tours for this attraction that pick up from Edinburgh, Glasgow and countless other places, you cant miss this tour.

Get into nature

The Scottish Highlands are a land of untamed beauty, where towering mountains rise above vast, rolling glens, and deep, mysterious lochs stretch into the mist. This rugged landscape, shaped by time and weather, is both breathtaking and humbling, a place where nature reigns supreme.

Winding roads lead through dramatic valleys like Glencoe, where steep cliffs and jagged peaks create a scene of almost otherworldly grandeur. The Isle of Skye, with its windswept cliffs and emerald-green hills, feels like a land pulled from myth. And standing proudly above them all is Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK, its summit often cloaked in swirling mist.

Either explore these lands yourself, or get a guide to take you along to the best bits - either single day trips or multi day adventures

Hopefully now you've got a better idea of the basics of this amazing country, check out some of our other articles to get a better feel for the stuff that really interests you!