10 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

With an abundance of places to visit in Scotland, we have compiled a list of the 10 best destinations using our local inside knowledge.

From Edinburgh in the south to the Isle of Skye in the north, Scotland is brimming with places to discover for all who visit her shores.

Whether you are still in the planning stages of your big adventure to Bonnie Scotland, or found yourself over here and are not sure where to explore, perhaps you are realising your lifelong dream of visiting one day, or embarking on an ancestral heritage tour, here we have listed for you 10 of the best must-see places to experience.

We have tried to incorporate something for everyone, but we would be more than delighted to offer more detailed bespoke private tour itineraries to suit every budget and every group’s needs.

So, for just now, kick off your shoes, relax with a dram or a coffee as we take you on a virtual tour of what could lie in store for you on your visit to our magical country, Scotland.

Map of Scotland’s Best Places to Visit

Use this interactive map to explore the locations of our 10 best places in Scotland. Click each marker for details about what makes each destination special, from Edinburgh’s historic castle to Skye’s dramatic landscapes.

From Edinburgh in the south to the Isle of Skye in the north, these destinations span Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes and historic sites. The colour-coded markers help you plan your route: red for cities, blue for lochs, green for mountains, yellow for castles, and purple for islands.

Undoubtedly, no trip to Scotland would be complete without a visit to our capital city, Edinburgh. The perfect place to start your trip, Edinburgh offers the best balance of tradition and modernity, entertainment and history.

The city is dominated by Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an extinct volcano and visible from across the city. The Royal Mile runs downhill from the castle through the medieval Old Town to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the monarch’s official residence when in Scotland.

Edinburgh’s Old Town, with its narrow closes and hidden courtyards, contrasts sharply with the elegant Georgian architecture of the New Town. Together, they form a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing centuries of Scottish history and architectural heritage.

Whether you’re winding your way up the Royal Mile, exploring the food and music scene in the vibrant neighbourhoods, or climbing Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views across the city, Edinburgh caters for all tastes and interests.

In August, the city comes alive with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, transforming the capital into a hub of theatre, comedy, music, military bands and performance from around the world.

Edinburgh is easily explored on foot, and we’re happy to recommend the best places to visit during your stay. Experience Edinburgh as part of our day tours from Edinburgh, where we can show you the capital before heading into the Highlands.

2. Stirling

The historic city of Stirling sits in the heart of Scotland, often called the gateway to the Highlands. Stirling Castle, perched atop a volcanic crag, was once home to the Royal Stewart Monarchy and offers commanding views across the surrounding landscape.

The city played a pivotal role in Scottish history. Just outside Stirling lies Bannockburn, where Robert the Bruce defeated the English in 1314, and the National Wallace Monument stands atop Abbey Craig, commemorating William Wallace and Scotland’s fight for independence.

The Holy Rude Church in Stirling’s old town is the only church in the United Kingdom, apart from Westminster Abbey, to have hosted a coronation and still be in use today. It was here in 1567 that Mary Queen of Scots’ son was crowned James VI, who later became James I of England.

Stirling’s old town features cobbled streets, historic buildings, and numerous places of interest. The city is easily accessible and makes an ideal base for exploring central Scotland.

Discover Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument on our Highland tours, or explore central Scotland on our multi-day tours.

Fans of Dan Brown’s ‘Da Vinci Code’ will be familiar with Rosslyn Chapel. Its intricate architecture and symbolic stonework has captured the imagination of those who have made the pilgrimage to its grounds since the fifteenth century.

The chapel, located just south of Edinburgh in the village of Roslin, was founded in 1446 by William Sinclair, Earl of Caithness. The interior features elaborate stone carvings depicting biblical scenes, pagan imagery, and mysterious symbols that have sparked centuries of speculation and legend.

Perhaps most famous is the Apprentice Pillar, an ornately carved column surrounded by tales of jealousy and murder. According to legend, a master mason killed his apprentice in a rage after the young man created a pillar of such beauty that it surpassed the master’s own work.

With a fascinating history and legendary myths and mysteries, Rosslyn Chapel is a must-see place to visit during a trip to Scotland, particularly for those interested in medieval architecture, Scottish history, or the legends that inspired modern storytelling.

The bonnie banks of Loch Lomond are a must-see for visitors to Scotland. Often called the “Queen of Scottish Lochs,” Loch Lomond serves as the gateway to the Highlands.

As Scotland’s largest freshwater loch by surface area, Loch Lomond sits within the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. The loch stretches for 24 miles and contains around 30 islands, some inhabited, others home only to wildlife and ancient ruins.

The surrounding landscape offers a wide variety of activities, from gentle lakeshore walks to challenging hillwalking on Ben Lomond, the most southerly of Scotland’s Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet). Water sports, boat trips, and scenic viewpoints make the loch accessible to visitors of all abilities.

The west bank road from Tarbet to Crianlarich offers some of Scotland’s most scenic driving, while the villages of Luss and Balloch provide access points for exploring the loch and surrounding hills.

With centuries of history, from Rob Roy MacGregor’s exploits to the famous folk song “The Bonnie Banks o’ Loch Lomond,” this location captures the essence of Highland Scotland while remaining easily accessible from Glasgow.

Experience Loch Lomond on our day tours from Glasgow, where we explore the bonnie banks and the surrounding Trossachs.

The legendary Loch Ness holds dark depths full of mystery and is, of course, home to Scotland’s most famous resident, “Nessie.” Scotland’s most voluminous body of water, Loch Ness holds more freshwater than all the lakes in England and Wales combined, reaching depths of over 750 feet.

Whether you believe in the legend of the Loch Ness Monster or not, the mystery surrounding Nessie has captivated imaginations worldwide since the 1930s. Boat cruises on the loch offer the chance to scan the dark waters while learning about the history of sightings and scientific expeditions.

For the best views and photo opportunities, the village of Dores at the northeastern end of the loch offers a peaceful beach and walks along the shore. The Dores Inn provides a perfect vantage point to gaze across the water, and the area remains quieter than the busier tourist spots further south.

The village of Fort Augustus sits at the southern end of the loch, where the Caledonian Canal connects Loch Ness to the Great Glen waterway. The town of Inverness, the Highland capital, sits at the northern end, making Loch Ness easily accessible as part of a Highland tour.

Few landscapes are so synonymous with Scotland’s rugged beauty as Glencoe. A visit to this Highland glen invokes a sense of melancholy, as the towering mountains remain haunted by the Massacre of Glencoe in 1692.

Government forces, who had been guests of Clan MacDonald for nearly two weeks, turned on their hosts in the night and killed 38 members of the clan in a brutal act of treachery. This violation of Highland hospitality remains one of Scotland’s darkest moments, and the brooding mountains stand as a perpetual reminder of that terrible betrayal.

Glencoe’s dramatic scenery is so iconic it has been the backdrop to many films including Harry Potter, Skyfall, The 39 Steps, and Braveheart.

Today, Glencoe attracts hillwalkers, climbers, and photographers drawn to its challenging peaks and ever-changing light. The A82 road passes through the glen, offering spectacular views, while numerous walking trails allow visitors to explore the landscape more intimately.

7. Fort William & Ben Nevis

Fort William sits at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the United Kingdom at 1,345 meters (4,413 feet). Known as the “Outdoor Capital of the UK,” Fort William attracts hillwalkers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.

Ben Nevis can be climbed via the Mountain Track, a challenging but achievable route that takes most people between 7-9 hours to complete the round trip. For those not attempting the summit, the surrounding area offers numerous lower-level walks with views of the mountain and surrounding glens.

The town serves as the western terminus of the West Highland Way, Scotland’s most popular long-distance walking route, and is also the starting point for the famous Jacobite Steam Train journey across the Glenfinnan Viaduct to Mallaig.

Fort William makes an excellent base for exploring Lochaber and the western Highlands, with easy access to Glencoe, the Road to the Isles, and ferry connections to the Inner Hebrides.

In any list of the best places to visit in Scotland, you will undoubtedly find the Isle of Skye, and this world-famous destination will not disappoint.

The largest of the Inner Hebrides, Skye is known for its dramatic landscapes, from the jagged peaks of the Cuillin mountains to the otherworldly rock formations of the Quiraing and the Old Man of Storr. The island’s rugged coastline, medieval castles, and ever-changing weather create an atmosphere that has captivated visitors for generations.

Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, has been the seat of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. The castle and its gardens offer insights into Highland clan history and stunning views across Loch Dunvegan.

The picturesque harbour town of Portree serves as Skye’s main hub, with colourful houses lining the waterfront, local seafood restaurants, and access to shops and accommodation.

Whether you cross the Skye Bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh or arrive by ferry from Mallaig, the journey to Skye is part of the adventure. The island rewards exploration, with hidden beaches, coastal walks, and mountain trails offering something for every visitor.

Discover the Isle of Skye on our Isle of Skye tours, departing from Edinburgh or Glasgow.

9. Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle is one of Scotland’s most photographed landmarks, and it’s easy to see why. Sitting on a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet, the castle is connected to the mainland by a stone bridge, a scene featured in countless postcards, calendars, and films.

Built in the 13th century as a stronghold for Clan Mackenzie and their allies, Clan Macrae, the castle was destroyed in 1719 during the Jacobite uprisings. Today’s structure is the result of a meticulous 20-year restoration completed in 1932, faithfully recreating the castle’s former grandeur.

Renowned for its dramatic setting, the castle has been a popular filming location, featuring in movies such as Highlander and The World Is Not Enough. Visitors can explore its furnished rooms, discover historical artefacts, and learn about its turbulent past.

Located near the village of Dornie on the road to the Isle of Skye. Eilean Donan is a natural stop between Fort William and Skye, offering stunning views across Loch Duich to the surrounding mountains.

Mount Stuart House is a must-see for art, heraldry, astrology and mythology lovers. It is arguably the most spectacular Victorian Gothic house in Scotland.

This outstanding architectural fantasy, the home of the 3rd Marquess of Bute, is located on the beautiful Isle of Bute on Scotland’s west coast. The house remains the ancestral home of the 7th Marquess of Bute, also known as Johnny Bute (or his nickname, Johnny Dumfries, from his Formula One racing adventures).

Immerse yourself in the astonishing history and marvel at the piece de resistance in the Marble Hall. Gaze at the glistening light shining through twelve stained glass windows depicting the signs of the zodiac. This is a truly remarkable and extraordinary house to visit on your trip to Scotland.

It is highly recommended to take the one-hour guided tour of the house, which concludes at the Bute Kitchens. The food is delicious, made fresh onsite, and the majority of ingredients are picked from the estate’s Kitchen Garden.

The extensive 300-acre gardens sit in luscious landscape and wild woodlands that offer a selection of different walks, catering for various abilities. You can stroll down to the inviting stretch of private beach, enjoy some peace and tranquility, whilst absorbing the panoramic views on offer of the splendid Clyde Riviera.

Discover more about the Isle of Bute and plan your visit to this hidden west coast gem.

Plan Your Scotland Adventure

If you’ve enjoyed reading our guide on the 10 best places to visit in Scotland, we hope it has inspired you to explore our bonnie country.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to discover more, these destinations showcase the diverse beauty and rich heritage that Scotland offers. From Edinburgh’s historic streets to Skye’s dramatic peaks, each place has its own story to tell.

We would be delighted to help you plan your Scottish adventure. Whether you’re interested in visiting these destinations on a guided tour, or would like to create a bespoke itinerary tailored to your interests, get in touch at info@kiltedpipertours.com or call +44 (0)7792 557776.

For more travel inspiration, explore our Scotland travel blog for insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations.

Hae a braw day!