Activities and Experiences in Scotland

Location: Glasgow

Experience Glasgow with all your senses on an exciting gastro tour. Not only will you get to know the city center and the charming West End, but you can also try 18 typical dishes and drinks.

So how about a portion of haggis, a Scottish island gin, a typical whisky, fresh scallops or local cheese? One thing is for sure, everyone will get a taste for it on this tour.

Best time to travel: All year round ✦ Budget: $$$

Location: Isle of Skye

With its dramatic mountain scenery and 282 Munros (Scottish peaks over 3,000 feet), the Isle of Skye is a favorite destination for hiking enthusiasts. Choose from one of the island’s top-rated trails and experience its breathtaking natural beauty at your own pace.

Start your outdoor adventure at Loch Slapin and hike up to Blà Bheinn, a striking peak standing over 3,000 feet tall. Looking for something more technical? Head to Clach Glas—often called the "Matterhorn of Skye"—for a challenging local climbing experience.

Best time to visit: June - September ✦ Budget: free of charge

Location: Loch Ness

Pay a visit to the legendary Loch Ness and explore the picturesque lake on a leisurely cruise from the water. Who knows, maybe you'll meet Nessi herself?

Afterwards, the historic Urquhart Castle on the north-western shore of the loch invites you on an exciting exploration tour. Follow in the footsteps of the past and take in the old walls on a guided tour.

Best time to visit: May - October ✦ Budget: $$

Location: Dufftown

Immerse yourself in the world of Glenfiddich tradition and take a look behind the scenes of the famous whisky distillery. Learn more about the exciting family history behind the company.

And then explore the traditional distillery on a guided tour. Not only can you watch the experienced whisky distillers at work, but you can also visit the warehouse. The crowning glory of the tour is the tasting of various single malts.

Best time to visit: All year round ✦ Budget: $

⭐TOURLANE RECOMMENDATION⭐

Location: Fort William

Explore some of Scotland’s most stunning sights aboard the historic Jacobite steam train. Along this scenic 84-mile route, you’ll pass the UK’s deepest freshwater lake (Loch Morar), its tallest mountain (Ben Nevis), and the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Travel tip: Ask the conductor to make a stop at Arisaig. On clear days, you can see the islands of Rum, Eigg, Muck, and Canna—as well as the southern tip of the Isle of Skye.

Best time to visit: Year-round Budget: $$$

Location: Easdale

The Firth of Lorn near Easdale is one of Scotland's most important protected areas. If you join a guided tour here, you have a good chance of seeing both local wildlife and whales up close.

While the whale season generally runs from late May to early September, you can see the gentle marine mammals foraging in the Gulf of Corryvreckan or south of the Garvellachs, especially in July and August.

Best time to visit: June - August ✦ Budget: $$

Location: Glasgow

The bagpipes are considered a Scottish landmark far beyond the country's borders. Travelers who are passionate about Scottish culture should therefore not miss out on a visit to the National Piping Centre in Glasgow.

After all, part of the national bagpipe collection awaits you in the quaint museum and you can also try your hand at playing the popular instrument yourself.

Best time to visit: All year round ✦ Budget: $$

⭐TOURLANE RECOMMENDATION⭐

Location: Cairngorms National Park

Visit a traditional farm in the Scottish Highlands and experience a typical working day for Highland shepherds.

Watch in amazement as the trained sheepdogs herd sheep, drive ducks and respond to a variety of commands.

Tip: Immerse yourself in everyday farm life as you bottle-feed young lambs and accompany the local shepherds in their work.

Best time to visit: All year round ✦ Budget: $$$

Location: Alexandria, Loch Lomond

Explore Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park on horseback. Experience the magnificent scenery on one of the sure-footedScottish ponies and enjoy the breathtaking views over the Bonny Banks, the imposing Ben Lomond and the surrounding moors and meadows.

Whether a private riding excursion or an exploratory tour in small groups - pony trekking in Loch Lomond will delight you.

Best time to visit: May - October ✦ Budget: $$

Location: Stirling, Stirlingshire

Visit one of Scotland's largest castles and discover Stirling Castle on your own during an exciting tour. Take in the architecture of the impressive building.

Walk through the Royal Palace, the Royal Chapel or the enchanting Queen Anne Gardens in the footsteps of important Scottish personalities such as William Wallace, Robert the Bruce and Mary Stuart. And enjoy the magnificent view over the region from Stirling Castle.

Best time to visit: All year round ✦ Budget: $