Things to see and do in Scotland

Who hasn’t heard the legend of Nessie? One of the must-see highlights of any trip to Scotland is Loch Ness—where you can decide for yourself whether the famous lake monster is real. Scotland’s second-largest lake offers a captivating blend of folklore, history, and stunning natural beauty.

Surrounded by the picturesque Highlands, Loch Ness reaches depths of up to 755 feet and features scenic hiking and biking trails that are perfect for outdoor exploration. Keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of Nessie during a boat tour, and be sure to visit the impressive locks at nearby Fort Augustus.

Another can’t-miss stop is the village of Drumnadrochit, where you can enjoy peaceful walks and take in the sweeping views of the iconic Urquhart Castle overlooking the water.

Situated directly on the legendary Loch Ness, the fantastic ruins of Urquhart Castle now delight its many visitors. Walk amidst the historic remains of this impressive castle. Learn more about the former Scottish and English lords of the castle, the influence of the MacDonald clan and the castle's strategic location.

Stop for a moment to enjoy the breathtaking view of the deep blue Loch Ness from the green headland. Afterwards, you can enjoy the impressive natural surroundings of Urquhart Castle to your heart's content by hiking, walking or picnicking. And who knows, maybe you'll actually catch a glimpse of Nessi?

Anyone traveling to Scotland should plan time for a stay in Edinburgh, as the attractive city awaits its visitors with a fantastic offer. Stroll through the medieval streets of the Old Town and follow the Royal Mile to Holyrood Palace.

Explore the modern New Town with its numerous museums and art galleries or visit Edinburgh Castle on the impressive Castle Rock, a long-extinct volcano. The historic castle is not only the city's landmark, but also offers you an insight into Scotland's turbulent history and a magnificent view over the Old Town. You can end your stay in Edinburgh by mingling with the locals in one of the countless pubs.

Edinburgh isn’t just perfect for a city getaway—it also makes a great base for outdoor adventures. Just outside the historic Old Town, you’ll find one of the city’s most iconic natural landmarks: Arthur’s Seat. Standing 823 feet tall, this ancient volcano is one of the highlights of Holyrood Park.

A hike to the summit offers a peaceful escape into Scottish nature and rewards you with sweeping views over Edinburgh. It’s especially magical at sunrise or sunset, when the sky lights up in vibrant color—making for an unforgettable experience just minutes from the city center.

The enchanting Rosslyn Chapel awaits you not far from Edinburgh. This fascinating building is not only brimming with beauty, but also attracts visitors with numerous stories and legends that surround the graceful church walls.

Take a leisurely stroll through the fantastic building. Marvel at the Scottish craftsmanship and discover many a fabulous ornament in Rosslyn Chapel, which was founded by Sir William St. Clair in 1446, as the mysterious symbolism and ornate stonework of the chapel have captivated many a writer and artist. But see for yourself!

Set in a lush landscape of rolling meadows, woodlands, and rugged peaks, the striking Glenfinnan Viaduct is a must-see on any trip to Scotland. Located on the scenic rail line between Fort William and Mallaig, the viaduct stretches nearly 1,300 feet and is supported by 21 towering concrete arches—each standing about 100 feet high.

But what truly brings the viaduct to life is the “Hogwarts Express.” The historic Jacobite steam train, made famous by the Harry Potter films, crosses the bridge on its journey past the stunning shores of Loch Shiel and up to Glenfinnan. Once there, you’ll find excellent hiking trails that take you deep into the hills for a true Highland adventure.

The beautiful Eilean Donan Castle is one of Scotland's most important sights. Located directly at the confluence of three lochs, the historic castle is situated on its own small island, which can only be reached via a stone bridge.

Surrounded by the impressive Scottish Highlands and blessed with breathtaking views, the castle, which was built around 1200, captivates many visitors today. While Eilean Donan Castle was long the seat of the Macrae clan, the old walls now house a history museum. Let one of the guides in a traditional kilt lead you through the castle and its history and enjoy an unforgettable journey.

Glencoe is one of Scotland's most famous valleys. Travelers who want to enjoy the magical landscapes of the region on impressive mountain hikes, skiing and snowboarding or even mountaineering should use this valley as a starting point for unforgettable tours.

Lush meadows, an impressive mountain landscape and many other natural highlights make a visit here a spectacular travel experience. You can also go kayaking on the beautiful Loch Leven. Learn more about the region's eventful history. Or simply enjoy the fresh air while you relax or go for a walk in the surrounding area.

Visit the beautiful Trossachs National Park and explore the impressive surroundings around Loch Lomond. Just an hour's drive from Glasgow, this natural paradise attracts more than just outdoor enthusiasts. Look forward to enchanting landscapes full of forests, lakes, islands and mountains and explore the surroundings on one of the numerous hiking trails or by bike along the Loch Lomond Cycle Path.

Hike up to Conic Hill and enjoy the magical views. Enjoy the magnificent view of the surrounding mountain landscape from the water while kayaking or canoeing. Discover one or two Scottish castles along the way. The medieval Stirling Castle near Loch Lomond is also well worth a visit.

Whether you arrive by ferry from Mallaig or drive across the dramatic bridge connecting Lochalsh and Kyleakin, a visit to the Isle of Skye is a must on any trip to Scotland. With its wild coastline, towering cliffs, and stretches of white-sand beaches, the island’s natural beauty is breathtaking—but there’s even more to explore.

Head north from Portree to hike to the Old Man of Storr, a striking 165-foot rock formation set in a surreal landscape. Explore the haunting ruins of Duntulm Castle, or follow the cliffside trail to the remote Neist Point Lighthouse. If you're lucky, you might spot dolphins, seals, or even whales off the coast—making your Isle of Skye adventure one to remember.

On the western side of the Isle of Skye, you’ll find a truly magical place to pause and take it all in: the Fairy Pools. These crystal-clear natural pools, fed by a series of cascading waterfalls, create an enchanting backdrop in the heart of Scotland’s rugged landscape.

Lace up your hiking boots for a scenic trek to the Fairy Pools, located near the village of Carbost. The trail is about 1.5 miles long and offers stunning views of Skye’s wild terrain along the way. Feeling brave? If you don’t mind the cold, you can even take a refreshing dip in the clear, icy waters—an unforgettable way to experience this natural wonder.

Also located on the Isle of Skye, the historic Dunvegan Castle makes for an unforgettable visit. For more than 800 years, this impressive castle has been owned by the Scottish MacLeods clan, one of the oldest families in the country.

So Dunvegan not only guarantees a breathtaking view, but also plenty of history. Cycle along Loch Dunvegan all the way to the castle. Join a guided tour and learn more about local legends, the turbulent family history and the individual clan members. Afterwards, you can relax in the beautiful castle garden and reflect on all your impressions.

The magical Glen Nevis valley captures the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts year after year. Nestled in the stunning Scottish Highlands, this region is home to one of Scotland’s most iconic mountain ranges—drawing hikers, skiers, and climbers alike. Looking for adventure? Hit the slopes at the Nevis Range ski area or enjoy a relaxing panoramic ride on the scenic mountain gondola.

For those up for a challenge, the Mountain Track (also known as the Pony Track) leads to the summit of Ben Nevis—the tallest peak in the UK at 4,413 feet. Prefer something more laid-back? Take a peaceful walk to Steall Waterfall, just outside Fort William. No matter how you choose to explore, Glen Nevis offers a breathtaking glimpse into Scotland’s one-of-a-kind natural beauty.

Follow in the footsteps of the Vikings and explore the islands of Lewis & Harris in the west of Scotland. Be inspired by white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and breathtaking views of the sea. Learn more about the vibrant local Gaelic culture and take advantage of the extensive range of first-class activities to experience the impressive landscapes up close.

From guided boat tours and a whole host of cycling and mountain biking trails to horse riding excursions and hikes, there's something for everyone. Even those who want to enjoy the fabulous surroundings while playing golf will not be disappointed on the Lewis & Harris Isle.

Of course, a visit to the multifaceted city of Glasgow is a must on your trip to Scotland. Scotland's largest city awaits you with a lively art scene, plenty of culture, a comprehensive range of restaurants and lots of flair. Explore some of the city's highlights such as the Riverside Museum, the impressive Saint Mungo's Cathedral or the beautiful Kelvingrove Park.

Stroll along the banks of the Clyde River or relax in the Botanical Gardens. Take a look at the impressive Necropolis Cemetery above the city and round off an eventful stay in one of the pubs in the bustling Ashton Lane.

Myths and legends beckon in Callanish on the Isle of Lewis. Similar to Stonehenge in England, a historic stone circle and numerous impressive rock formations await you here. The stone circles, which are almost 3,000 years old, are probably one of the oldest stone formations of the megalithic culture.

According to historical records, the huge boulders were primarily used for cultural rites and the calculation of various events. So take the opportunity to immerse yourself in Scotland's mystical history and culture with a visit to Callanish. Learn more about the region and get a feel for the country's ancient customs.

Just north of Deerness in the Orkney Islands, the Mull Head Nature Reserve offers a truly unforgettable experience. Spanning nearly 400 acres, this stunning reserve features dramatic coastal landscapes, rich plant life, and rare wildlife species—making it a must-visit for nature lovers.

Walk through maritime grasslands blanketed with wild heather, herbs, and water lilies while spotting seabirds like guillemots, fulmars, and gulls nesting along the cliffs. Follow the Gloup Path to explore 400-million-year-old sedimentary rock formations, where pounding waves have carved spectacular sea caves over time. And don’t miss the historic remains at the Brough of Deerness—an evocative glimpse into Orkney’s ancient past.

Castles and palaces are simply part and parcel of Scotland. However, one palace that is particularly impressive due to its size and history is Scone Palace in Perth. The ancient walls from the 19th century not only housed the parliament for a long time, but also numerous Scottish kings such as Macbeth and Robert the Bruce were crowned here.

In addition to the breathtaking view over the River Tay, you can currently admire fantastic antiques, paintings and fabulous artifacts in Scone Palace. So don't miss out on a visit to this unique manor house, visit the beautiful gardens and the old prison and take a moment to reminisce about times long past.

The majestic Stirling Castle is enthroned high up on Castle Hill. Due to its strategic location in the north of the country, the impressive medieval castle was repeatedly besieged or occupied by Scots and Englishmen between the 12th and 14th centuries.

However, the stately interior of the castle also served as a residence for the Stuarts. Visit this relic from times long past. Marvel at the beautiful carvings and ornate artifacts. Take a look behind the scenes in the castle kitchen. Stroll through the beautiful Queen Anne Garden to enjoy the enchanting surroundings of Stirling Castle.

The spectacular St. Kilda archipelago is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason. Located in the middle of the Atlantic, this archipelago boasts fascinating nature and unforgettable landscapes full of rugged cliffs, lush green meadows and seemingly endless stretches of coastline.

A visit is particularly worthwhile for birdwatching. Whether by boat or from the picturesque mainland, you have the opportunity to observe not only seagulls, but also gannets, puffins and many other birds at close range. Last but not least, you should also use your time on the unique St. Kilda archipelago for unforgettable walks through Scotland's impressive nature.