Scotland: Tailor-made

It’s no coincidence that Americans make up almost one-quarter of Scotland’s international visitors—and it’s not only for the kilts and bagpipes. Year after year, people flock to the land of the Scots for its epic landscapes, age-old castles, and single-malt whiskey, best enjoyed in the warmth of a local pub. From south to north, across its 30,000 square miles and population of five million people, bonnie Scotland packs history, nature, and hospitality into a blend that will have you visiting time and again. 

There are many ways to enjoy the land of the Scots. On the one hand, you could enjoy the urban joys of Edinburgh and Glasgow—the former enchants with its gothic architecture and endless history, while the latter thrills you with its port-city appeal and creative renaissance—drinking drams of whiskey with the chatty locals and touring through some of Europe's finest museums. But then you’d miss out on the other treasure of this enchanting country: the pastoral landscapes of the Highlands, where stunning Isles, serrated mountains, and epic cliffs offer total disconnection. 

Scotland is a magnificent place to visit during the autumn (September to November) and spring (late March to May) months. In the springtime, temperatures are warmer, and the country’s green landscapes once again take on their vivid shine. Autumn and spring are also the off-season in Scotland, and offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy Edinburgh and Glasgow. The warmest in the year (mid-60s to the high-70s), the months of July and August are generally also a good time to visit, especially if you're looking to hike in the Highlands.