Flight Booking Tour Package
Best Things To Do In Scotland

Last Updated At: 01-Feb-2024

15 Best Things To Do In Scotland | Activities List With Location

Let's have a drink in the arms of enchanting castles. Scotland, the mind-blowing beauty, is a country with mesmerising scenery and fascinating tales woven with the threads of serenity. It is widely famous for Scotch whisky, giving tourists an excuse to spend more nights. Dive into the cultural richness and outdoor wonders, experiencing the essence of Scottish life. You can also play sports like golf there as the best time to visit Scotland for golf is April to October. From historic landmarks to lively festivals, there are endless things to do in Scotland, offering a delightful tapestry of experiences that enchant you.

List Of 15 Famous Things To Do In Scotland

Here is a long list of well-curated and popular things to do in Scotland:

  • Edinburgh Castle | Explore Historic Stronghold
  • Isle of Skye | Hike the Quiraing Trail
  • Loch Ness | Cruise the Mysterious Waters
  • The Royal Mile | Wander Historic Streets
  • Glencoe Valley | Embrace Highland Beauty
  • Scottish Highlands | Take a Whisky Tour
  • Stirling Castle | Step into Mediaeval History
  • Arthur's Seat | Hike to Panoramic Views
  • Glasgow Botanic Gardens | Enjoy Nature's Beauty
  • Isle of Arran | Discover Coastal Charm
  • Cairngorms National Park | Experience Nature Trails
  • Kelvingrove Art Gallery | Admire Diverse Art
  • Loch Lomond | Cruise Scotland's Largest Lake
  • Eilean Donan Castle | Marvel at Island Majesty
  • The Kelpies | Witness Iconic Equine Sculptures

1. Edinburgh Castle | Explore Historic Stronghold

Edinburgh Castle, perched on Castle Rock, invites visitors to explore Scotland's rich history. The castle offers family-friendly activities in Edinburgh and a glimpse into royal life. Families can enjoy events, view the Crown Jewels, and explore this iconic historic fortress.

  • Nearby Attractions: Holyrood Palace, The Real Mary King's Close, Scottish Parliament.
  • Activities: Crown Jewels viewing, historical reenactments, family-friendly events.
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer for outdoor events and festivals.

2. Isle of Skye | Hike the Quiraing Trail

The Isle of Skye boasts breathtaking landscapes and hiking trails in the Scottish Highlands. The Quiraing Trail, winding through unique geological formations, is a must for nature enthusiasts. A journey through this picturesque isle unveils historic castles and scenic wonders.

  • Nearby Attractions: Dunvegan Castle, Fairy Pools, Old Man of Storr.
  • Activities: Hiking trails, photography, exploring geological wonders.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring for blooming landscapes.

3. Loch Ness | Cruise the Mysterious Waters

Loch Ness, renowned for its mysterious depths, offers more than just myths. Planning a road trip around Loch Ness is a good option, as it provides stunning views and opportunities for family-friendly activities. Tour boats offer a chance to explore the lake and perhaps glimpse the elusive Nessie.

  • Nearby Attractions: Urquhart Castle, Fort Augustus, Caledonian Canal.
  • Activities: Loch cruises, Nessie spotting, road trips around the lake.
  • Best Time to Visit: Autumn for fewer crowds.

4. The Royal Mile | Wander Historic Streets

Edinburgh's Royal Mile captivates with historic charm. Lined with shops, street performers, and historic castles like Holyrood Palace, it's perfect for family-friendly activities. A stroll reveals cultural gems, including the Real Mary King's Close, providing insights into Scottish history.

  • Nearby Attractions: Holyrood Palace, St. Giles' Cathedral, Scotch Whisky Experience.
  • Activities: Street performances, shopping, cultural landmarks.
  • Best Time to Visit: Anytime for vibrant street life.

5. Glencoe Valley | Embrace Highland Beauty

The majestic Glencoe Valley is a highlight of the Scottish Highlands. Hiking trails lead through rugged terrain, allowing visitors to absorb the Highland beauty. With historic castles in Scotland like Kilchurn Castle nearby, it's a landscape steeped in Scottish history.

  • Nearby Attractions: Kilchurn Castle, Ben Nevis, Glen Etive.
  • Activities: Hiking trails, photography, exploring historic castles.
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer for clear mountain views.

6. Scottish Highlands | Take a Whisky Tour

A journey through the Scottish Highlands offers more than scenic vistas; it's a gateway to whisky distillery tours in Scotland. From Glenfiddich to Talisker, visitors can savour the spirit of Scotland. Guided tours provide insights into the whisky-making process and the rich history behind each distillery.

  • Nearby Attractions: Glenfiddich Distillery, Talisker Distillery, Ben Nevis.
  • Activities: Whisky distillery tours, tastings, Highland hikes.
  • Best Time to Visit: Autumn for golden landscapes.

7. Stirling Castle | Step into Mediaeval History

Stirling Castle, perched atop a volcanic crag, beckons with mediaeval grandeur. Family-friendly activities include exploring royal chambers and watching historical reenactments. The castle's strategic location provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

  • Nearby Attractions: Wallace Monument, Battle of Bannockburn, Argyll's Lodging.
  • Activities: Historical reenactments, castle tours, panoramic views.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring for blooming gardens.

8. Arthur's Seat | Hike to Panoramic Views

Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano, offers an urban hiking adventure in Edinburgh. Families can enjoy panoramic views of the city and beyond. A short hike provides a rewarding experience, making it an accessible outdoor activity for all ages.

  • Nearby Attractions: Holyrood Palace, Calton Hill, Scottish Parliament.
  • Activities: Hiking trails, panoramic views, outdoor picnics.
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer for clear views.

9. Glasgow Botanic Gardens | Enjoy Nature's Beauty

Glasgow Botanic Gardens provides a serene escape with diverse plant life and family-friendly activities. Amidst the greenery, visitors can participate in cultural festivals in Glasgow, creating a harmonious blend of nature and culture.

  • Nearby Attractions: Kelvingrove Art Gallery, West End, University of Glasgow.
  • Activities: Cultural festivals, family-friendly events, garden walks.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring for blooming flowers.

10. Isle of Arran | Discover Coastal Charm

The Isle of Arran, often called "Scotland in Miniature," boasts coastal charm and family-friendly activities. With hiking trails offering panoramic views and historic castles like Brodick Castle, it's an island that encapsulates Scotland's diverse landscapes.

  • Nearby Attractions: Kelvingrove Art Gallery, West End, University of Glasgow.
  • Activities: Cultural festivals, family-friendly events, garden walks.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring for blooming flowers.

11. Cairngorms National Park | Experience Nature Trails

Cairngorms National Park, the largest in the UK, is a haven for nature lovers. Hiking trails wind through stunning landscapes, offering a glimpse of wildlife. Families can immerse themselves in outdoor activities, creating lasting memories amidst Scottish nature.

  • Nearby Attractions: Balmoral Castle, Highland Wildlife Park, Loch Morlich.
  • Activities: Nature trails, wildlife spotting, outdoor adventures.
  • Best Time to Visit: Autumn for vibrant foliage.

12. Kelvingrove Art Gallery | Admire Diverse Art

Kelvingrove Art Gallery in Glasgow houses a diverse collection of art. Families can enjoy cultural festivals and events here, exploring exhibits from fine art to natural history. It's a hub where art and culture come together in Glasgow.

  • Nearby Attractions: Glasgow University, The Lighthouse, Riverside Museum.
  • Activities: Art exhibitions, cultural festivals, family-friendly events.
  • Best Time to Visit: Anytime for cultural experiences.

13. Loch Lomond | Cruise Scotland's Largest Lake

Loch Lomond, Scotland's largest lake, invites visitors to cruise its scenic waters. Family-friendly activities abound, from boat trips to exploring nearby hiking trails. The lake's tranquil beauty and historical sites, like Inchmurrin Island, make it a captivating destination.

  • Nearby Attractions: Inchmurrin Island, Balloch Castle, Trossachs National Park.
  • Activities: Loch cruises, hiking trails, water sports.
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer for outdoor water activities.

14. Eilean Donan Castle | Marvel at Island Majesty

Eilean Donan Castle, situated on a small island where three sea lochs meet, exudes island majesty. The castle, with its historic allure, provides a picturesque setting. Families can marvel at its architecture and explore the surrounding landscapes.

  • Nearby Attractions: Isle of Skye, Loch Ness, Plockton.
  • Activities: Castle tours, scenic photography, exploring nearby landscapes.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring for pleasant weather.

15. The Kelpies | Witness Iconic Equine Sculptures