Scotland is one of my favorite road trip destinations in the world. Driving through the Highlands, you’ll hit the brakes every five minutes just to stare at the mountains rising from the mist. This is a place where ancient castles guard deep lochs, and the wildest beaches sit empty except for seals lounging on the sand.
But planning a trip here can be overwhelming…and expensive. I’ve curated this guide to help you cut through the noise in 2026! I’ve personally explored these 13 beautiful places and distilled everything you need to know: the best local hikes, vetted accommodations, and honest advice on when to visit (so you don’t end up on a tropical-looking beach in freezing rain). From moody glens where stags roam free to vibrant capital city streets, here is exactly where to go to experience Scotland at its absolute best.
My Favorite Places in Scotland at a Glance
Short on time? If you are trying to quickly map out your itinerary, use this cheat sheet to match your travel style with Scotland’s best regions before diving into the detailed guide below.
| Location | Best For… | The “Can’t-Miss” Experience | Ideal Time to Visit |
| Edinburgh | City breaks & History | Sunset hike up Arthur’s Seat | August (Fringe Fest) or Dec (Hogmanay) |
| Isle of Skye | Epic Photography & Road Trips | Sunrise at the Old Man of Storr | May – June (fewer midges!) |
| The Highlands | Adventure & Folklore | Searching for Nessie at Loch Ness | Sept – Oct (Stunning autumn colors) |
| The Outer Hebrides | Remote Escapes & Beaches | Walking the white sands of Luskentyre | June – August (warmest waters) |
| Cairngorms | Wildlife & Winter Sports | Skiing or Red Deer spotting | Dec – Feb (Snow) or Summer (Hikes) |
| Orkney Islands | Archaeology & Solitude | Exploring 5,000-year-old Skara Brae | May – Aug (longest daylight hours) |
Now that you know which spot fits your vibe, let’s explore the most important updates you should know in 2026. Then, we’ll get into the exact trails, viewpoints, and hidden gems that make these 13 destinations absolutely amazing.
What’s New in Scotland in 2026
Scotland is having a landmark year in 2026, with major sporting events, newly opened attractions, transformed visitor experiences, and exciting accommodation openings across the country. Whether you’re planning a first trip or returning for another adventure, here’s everything that’s new and noteworthy for travelers this year.
Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games (July 23 – August 2)
The biggest event on Scotland’s 2026 calendar is the return of the Commonwealth Games to Glasgow. After stepping in when Australia’s Victoria state withdrew from hosting duties, Glasgow is delivering a streamlined yet spectacular 11-day celebration of sport.
What to know:
- 10 sports including athletics, swimming, track cycling, gymnastics, netball, judo, boxing, weightlifting, lawn bowls, and 3×3 basketball
- Six fully integrated Para Sports — the largest Para Sport medal event program in Commonwealth Games history
- Four venues within an eight-mile corridor: Scotstoun Stadium, Tollcross International Swimming Centre, Emirates Arena (including Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome), and the Scottish Event Campus (SEC)
- 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories
- Over 500,000 tickets available to the public
A notable highlight: the iconic Mile race returns to the Commonwealth Games athletics program for the first time since 1966.
For schedules and ticket information, visit the official Glasgow 2026 website.
Inverness Castle Experience — Now Open
After a £47 million transformation, Inverness Castle has reopened as Scotland’s newest must-visit attraction. The former sheriff court and prison has been reimagined as an immersive storytelling experience celebrating Highland culture, history, and landscapes.
Highlights include:
- Interactive installations and immersive exhibitions following the voices of the seanchaidh (traditional storyteller)
- The restored Rose Window, originally from a Victorian Methodist church in the city
- The Spirits of the Highlands whisky experience in the West Tower
- Panoramic rooftop terrace views across Inverness and the River Ness
- The Saltire Bistro and North Tower Bar featuring Highland-inspired food and drink
- Cèilidh Rooms and Gallery diving deep into Highland culture (including a section on Scottish rock legends Runrig)
Practical info:
- Advance tickets: £20 adults | Walk-up: £22
- Highlander Pass available for Highland Council residents
- Expected to welcome 400,000 visitors annually
Book tickets and plan your visit at invernesscastle.scot.
Calanais Standing Stones Visitor Centre — Reopening Spring 2026
The 5,000-year-old Calanais Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis are already one of Scotland’s most atmospheric prehistoric sites — predating Stonehenge. In spring 2026, a completely transformed visitor centre will enhance the experience with a £10.1 million redevelopment.
What’s new:
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👉 Send me cheap 2026 flights- State-of-the-art exhibition exploring the dramatic history and astronomical significance of the Neolithic monument
- New café and expanded shop showcasing Outer Hebridean artists and makers
- Improved accessibility with wheelchair-accessible pathways and assisted transport to the stones
- Enhanced parking facilities
Note: The stones remain open 24/7 and free to visit during construction. Until the centre reopens, parking is limited to the shore road, and visitors must walk up the hill to reach the site.
Follow progress and plan your visit at calanais.org.
My #1 tip to save money on your trip to Scotland
Before jumping into all my favorite spots, let’s cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Scottish adventure.
- FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Edinburgh for just $380 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
- Food: Save by shopping at Lidl, Aldi, or Tesco. For eating out, try local chippies and kebab shops where a filling meal costs £5-7. Traditional pubs often have great lunch deals for around £8-10. Skip the touristy Royal Mile restaurants – they’re often triple the price!
- Transport: Get a Ridacard in Edinburgh or Subway Smartcard in Glasgow for city transport. For exploring the country, book ScotRail tickets well in advance – they offer ‘Advance’ tickets from £5. Look into Highland Rover or Spirit of Scotland passes for longer trips. Between using public transport and booking advance train deals, this has saved me hundreds of pounds on each trip.
Scotland can be surprisingly expensive, especially during festival seasons and in tourist hotspots. But if you follow the strategies above, you can explore this stunning country for much less.
I know Scotland covers a lot of ground, so I mapped out all the must-see spots from this guide below. Save this map to your phone so you can easily navigate between the Highland castles and Isle of Skye viewpoints!
👉 Find Your Perfect Scotland Accommodation
👉 My Favorite Tour in Scotland
- Read also: My Ultimate Scotland Road Trip Guide
1. Edinburgh
- 📍 Location: Edinburgh, Scotland
- 🏆 Best For: City views 🏰, history buffs 📚, castle lovers 🏯
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking up Arthur’s Seat, exploring Edinburgh Castle, wandering Victoria Street
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for festivals and clear skies 🎭
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Cheval Old Town Chambers – Stylish serviced apartments steps from the Royal Mile
Edinburgh blends old-world charm with modern energy, making it one of Scotland’s most amazing cities. You can kick off the day with a hike up Arthur’s Seat, where the panoramic views of the city skyline make the climb totally worth it. On clear days, you can even spot the coast in the distance.
Down below, walk the cobblestone streets of the Royal Mile and explore the underground alleys that twist beneath the city. Edinburgh Castle towers above, offering both epic views and a crash course in Scottish history.
Whether you’re sipping coffee in a quiet bookshop or grabbing a pint in a centuries-old pub, Edinburgh has a knack for making everyday moments feel cinematic. It’s pretty much a city that balances lively festivals and deep heritage, and it’s easy to explore on foot.
- Read next: Things to Do in Edinburgh at Night
2. The Isle of Skye
- 📍 Location: Inner Hebrides, Scotland
- 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, nature photographers 📷, road trippers 🚗
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to the Old Man of Storr, swimming in the Fairy Pools, exploring Quiraing
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for milder weather 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Cuillin Hills Hotel – Lakeside stay with views of the Cuillin Mountains
The Isle of Skye feels like it belongs in a fantasy movie. This rugged island is all dramatic cliffs, windswept moors, and moody skies that shift by the hour. The Old Man of Storr hike is a must, to witness the breathtaking jagged rock formations, especially when the mist rolls through.
Further south, Fairy Pools offer icy-blue waterfalls where bold travelers take the plunge, even when the water chills you to the bone. You’ll also want to take a road trip around the Trotternish Peninsula, where you can stop at Quiraing, a landslip full of twisting landscapes that feel straight out of another planet.
Skye’s charm lies in its raw, untouched beauty. Even on a rainy day, the scenery looks magical. The winding roads, scattered sheep, and sudden loch views will slow you down in the best way. Pack warm layers and a camera, this is Scotland at its wildest.
3. Glenfinnan Viaduct
- 📍 Location: Glenfinnan, Highlands
- 🏆 Best For: Harry Potter fans 🧙♂️, trainspotters 🚂, landscape photographers 🌄
- 📸 Top Experiences: Watching the Jacobite steam train, hiking to the viaduct viewpoint, visiting Glenfinnan Monument
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for train schedules and clear skies ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Prince’s House Hotel – Cozy Highland inn close to the viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is iconic for a reason. With 21 graceful arches stretching across lush Highland scenery, it looks like something pulled from a dream. Well, it kind of is, especially for fans of the Harry Potter films. That’s where the Jacobite steam train, aka the Hogwarts Express, chugs its way through the hills.
Time your visit to catch the train crossing, usually late morning or early afternoon. The best photo spot is a short hike up the hill behind the visitor center. You’ll get sweeping views of the viaduct with Loch Shiel shimmering in the background.
Beyond the train hype, Glenfinnan has its own rich history. The nearby Glenfinnan Monument marks the site where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745. Whether you’re into epic shots or quiet walks, this Highland gem delivers both atmosphere and adventure.
4. The Scottish Highlands
- 📍 Location: Northern Scotland
- 🏆 Best For: Scenic drives 🚗, castle lovers 🏰, outdoor adventurers ⛰️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Eilean Donan Castle, exploring Glencoe, searching for Nessie at Loch Ness
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for mild weather and open trails 🌦️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: The Torridon – Luxurious Highland retreat with loch and mountain views
The Scottish Highlands stretch across a wild, epic landscape that feels custom-built for road trips and soul-searching hikes. If you’re driving through Glencoe, pull over often because every bend reveals a new scene of towering cliffs and moody skies. It’s easy to see why filmmakers love this place.
One of the standout stops is Eilean Donan Castle, a postcard-perfect fortress perched at the meeting point of three lochs. It’s even more stunning at golden hour, when the light hits the water just right. If you’re into folklore, Loch Ness is worth a detour, monster or not.
The Highlands aren’t just scenery, they’re full of little villages, sheep-dotted hills, and trails that disappear into fog. Whether you’re hiking, castle-hopping, or just slowing down, this region invites you to unplug. Bring snacks, layers, and a good playlist. The journey here is as unforgettable as the destinations.
- Read next: Family-Friendly Spa Hotels in the UK
- You may also like: My Favorite Must-See Places in the Highlands
5. The Isle of Mull
- 📍 Location: Inner Hebrides, Scotland
- 🏆 Best For: Wildlife spotting 🦅, beach lovers 🏖️, colorful towns 🌈
- 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling Tobermory’s harbor, exploring Calgary Bay, joining a sea eagle safari
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for wildlife and beach weather 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Western Isles Hotel – Hilltop stay with views over Tobermory Bay
The Isle of Mull is one of those places that surprises you in the best way. After a short ferry ride from the mainland, you’ll land in Tobermory, a harbor town with candy-colored buildings and a super chill vibe. It’s the kind of spot where you slow down without even trying.
Mull is perfect if you’re into nature without the crowds. Calgary Bay is a stunning stretch of white sand and clear water that almost feels tropical, until the wind reminds you it’s still Scotland. You’ll find coastal trails nearby that lead to hidden viewpoints and quiet spots for a picnic.
For something more adventurous, hop on a wildlife boat tour. Mull is one of the best places in the UK to spot white-tailed sea eagles, and you might even see dolphins or puffins depending on the season. It’s peaceful, scenic, and a total win for anyone craving nature.
6. The Cairngorms National Park
- 📍 Location: Northeast Highlands, Scotland
- 🏆 Best For: Hikers ⛰️, wildlife lovers 🦌, winter sports fans 🎿
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Cairn Gorm Mountain, relaxing at Loch Morlich, visiting Highland Wildlife Park
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for hiking or December to February for skiing 🌦️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: The Boat Country Inn – Cozy lodge-style stay near Aviemore
The Cairngorms National Park is the UK’s largest national park, and it packs in everything from rugged peaks to peaceful lochs. Whether you’re here to hike, ski, or just breathe some seriously fresh air, this place has range. One of the best spots to start is Loch Morlich, a calm lake framed by pine forest, perfect for paddleboarding or a laid-back walk.
More into hiking? Tackle Cairn Gorm Mountain, where panoramic views stretch across the Highlands. You can either hike up or take the funicular railway, which gets you close to the summit with less effort. In winter, nearby slopes turn into a go-to destination for skiing and snowboarding.
Wildlife is a huge draw here too. You might spot red squirrels, deer, or even golden eagles if you’re lucky. The Highland Wildlife Park also offers a closer look at native and endangered species.
7. Glen Coe
- 📍 Location: Highlands, Scotland
- 🏆 Best For: Landscape photographers 📸, hikers 🥾, moody nature lovers 🌫️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the Three Sisters, visiting the Glencoe Visitor Centre, catching sunrise over the glen
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for clear trails and fewer midges 🍂
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Kingshouse Hotel – Remote Highland stay surrounded by dramatic mountain views
Glen Coe hits different—it’s dramatic, haunting, and easily one of the most photogenic places in Scotland. Driving through the glen, you’ll pass sheer cliffs, winding roads, and sweeping valleys that shift with every change in weather. It’s the kind of landscape that sticks with you long after you leave.
The Three Sisters hike is a solid intro to the area’s terrain. It’s not too long, but the views are unreal, especially when the mist rolls in over the peaks. For context and history, stop at the Glencoe Visitor Centre, where you’ll learn about the 1692 massacre that gave the glen its eerie stories.
Sunrise here is wild. We’re talking golden light pouring over ancient hills that feels straight out of a fantasy novel. Whether you’re into photography, hiking, or just soaking in the atmosphere, Glen Coe delivers raw, unforgettable beauty in every direction.
- Read Next: Top 12 Things to Do in Glasgow, Scotland
8. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
- 📍 Location: Central Scotland
- 🏆 Best For: Lake views 🌊, casual hikers 🥾, weekend escapes ⛺
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Conic Hill, exploring Inchcailloch Island, cruising Loch Lomond
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for sunny hikes and clear lake days ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Loch Lomond Arms Hotel – Traditional inn with cozy rooms near the water
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs is one of Scotland’s most accessible national parks and still feels like a proper wilderness escape. It’s just over an hour from Glasgow, but you’ll quickly trade city noise for quiet lochs and rolling hills. The park is super versatile, whether you’re into hiking, biking, or just chilling by the water.
Climb Conic Hill for an amazing view of the loch dotted with little islands. It’s a short, satisfying trail that pays off big time. You can also catch a boat to Inchcailloch Island, where forest trails and old ruins make for a peaceful day out.
Loch Lomond itself is great for kayaking or taking a scenic cruise. The nearby villages, like Balmaha and Luss, have cafés and picnic spots worth stopping for. It’s a great intro to the Highlands vibe without going too remote, especially for a weekend adventure.
- Read next: Things to Do in Glasgow at Night
9. Stirling
- 📍 Location: Central Scotland
- 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏰, architecture fans 🧱, day-trippers 🚆
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Stirling Castle, climbing the Wallace Monument, walking Stirling Old Town
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for festivals and open attractions 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Colessio – Chic boutique hotel near the heart of Stirling’s Old Town
Stirling packs a ton of history into a walkable, castle-capped city. It’s like a highlight reel of Scotland’s past, with medieval streets and battle sites all in one place. Stirling Castle is the main attraction with massive halls, detailed tapestries, and hilltop views that stretch for miles.
Down the road, the National Wallace Monument honors one of Scotland’s most legendary figures. Climbing the spiral staircase inside is a workout, but the panoramic views at the top are worth every step. It’s also a great way to get a sense of the landscape that made Stirling so strategic back in the day.
Wander through the Old Town, where cafés, shops, and cobblestones make every corner photo-worthy. Stirling’s central location makes it perfect for day trips, but it’s got enough personality to hold your attention for longer. It’s a laid-back blend of historic and modern Scotland in one small, scenic package.
- Read next: Best Cities in Europe for Nature Lovers
10. The Orkney Islands
- 📍 Location: Off the northern coast of mainland Scotland
- 🏆 Best For: Ancient history 🗿, coastal walks 🌊, archaeology fans 🧭
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Skara Brae, hiking to the Old Man of Hoy, visiting the Ring of Brodgar
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to August for long days and cultural festivals ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: The Shore – Seafront hotel in Kirkwall with easy access to historical sites
The Orkney Islands feel like a completely different chapter of Scotland. This remote cluster of over 70 islands is packed with prehistoric ruins, rugged coastlines, and seriously peaceful vibes. If you’re into archaeology or just want to see something older than the pyramids, head straight to Skara Brae, a stone village that’s been chilling here for like 5,000 years.
Outdoor lovers will want to hike the trail on Hoy Island to see the Old Man of Hoy, a giant sea stack that rises straight out of the Atlantic. It’s one of the most dramatic coastal views in the country and well worth the ferry and hike combo.
Orkney isn’t just about ruins and cliffs though. The main town, Kirkwall, has cozy pubs, great seafood, and local art shops. You’ll find a strong sense of island culture here since its quiet, resilient, and full of character.
10. The Outer Hebrides
- 📍 Location: Northwest coast of Scotland
- 🏆 Best For: Remote escapes 🏝️, beach lovers 🐚, cultural travelers 🎶
- 📸 Top Experiences: Walking Luskentyre Beach, visiting the Callanish Stones, spotting puffins on the cliffs
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to August for clear skies and wildlife sightings 🐦
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Harris Hotel – Historic family-run stay close to Luskentyre Beach
The Outer Hebrides are a chain of islands where nature feels raw and the landscapes are wide open and quiet. On the Isle of Harris, Luskentyre Beach is the standout. You’ll find soft white sand, shallow turquoise water, and barely any people around. It’s ideal for a calm afternoon walk or just taking in the view.
Drive north to the Isle of Lewis and you’ll reach the Callanish Stones, a 5,000-year-old site that feels peaceful and mysterious. Unlike other ancient landmarks, this one isn’t fenced off or overly commercialized. You can walk right up to the stones and explore them at your own pace.
Life here moves slower. Gaelic is still spoken, Harris Tweed is handwoven by locals, and it’s common to spot puffins, seals, or even otters along the coast.
12. Dunnottar Castle
- 📍 Location: Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire
- 🏆 Best For: Castle explorers 🏰, history lovers 📖, dramatic coastlines 🌊
- 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the cliffside trail, exploring castle ruins, watching the sea from the ramparts
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for dry weather and calm seas 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Shorehead Guest House – Seaside B&B with views of the Stonehaven harbor
Dunnottar Castle sits on a rocky headland high above the North Sea, and the views are just as dramatic as the history. You’ll walk a steep path along the cliffs before reaching the ruins, where towers and stone walls cling to the edge of the land. It’s a place that feels like a movie set, but with real stories behind every wall.
Inside the ruins, you’ll find traces of medieval halls, dungeons, and battlements. This fortress once held the Scottish crown jewels during a siege, and even Mary, Queen of Scots, has ties to the site. Take your time wandering as there’s a sense of isolation here that adds to the experience.
The surrounding coastline is perfect for a walk after your visit. Waves crash below, seabirds circle overhead, and the wind carries that fresh, salty air. It’s a day trip that combines epic views with deep historical roots.
13. Ben Nevis and Glen Nevis
- 📍 Location: Near Fort William, Highlands
- 🏆 Best For: Mountain lovers 🏞️, hikers 🥾, adventure seekers 🧗
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Ben Nevis, crossing the wire bridge to Steall Falls, exploring Glen Nevis trails
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for clearer weather and open paths 🌄
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Glen Nevis Youth Hostel – Affordable stay right at the base of the mountain
Ben Nevis is the tallest mountain in the UK, and hiking it is a true bucket list experience. The main trail starts just outside Fort William and takes most people six to eight hours roundtrip. The views get better the higher you go, from forested trails to wide-open rock paths with sweeping Highland vistas.
If a summit isn’t your thing, Glen Nevis offers plenty of lower-elevation hikes that are just as scenic. One of the best routes leads to Steall Falls, where a wire bridge adds a bit of thrill before reaching the second-tallest waterfall in Scotland.
Both Ben and Glen Nevis are great for spotting red deer, golden eagles, or just catching your breath in peaceful surroundings. Whether you climb to the top or stay closer to the valley, this area gives you that classic Highland mix of fresh air, dramatic views, and serious bragging rights.
- Read next: Beautiful Places in the UK to Visit
Global Viewpoint is a personal blog. All content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional financial, medical, or legal advice.
