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Introducing Scotland

The romantic landscapes and dramatic features of this small territory make travelers feel like the region is much larger than it actually is. Pair that with a friendly culture, plenty of outdoor adventure, and incredible seafood, and Scotland is the trip that stays with visitors long after they leave.

When is the best time to visit?
As a year-round destination with distinct seasons, travelers should pick the time they visit on what they plan to do. Spring, summer, and fall are better for outdoor recreation, while winter is a popular time to explore the holiday festivals and seasonal cheer.

Where to go in Scotland?
Delight your senses at the bright green rolling hills of the Isle of Skye, enjoy the fun-oriented culture of Glasgow, camp out or trek the mountains surround Loch Lomond, learn about the history and architecture of Edinburgh, and tour the distilleries of Islay.

Thinking about traveling around the United Kingdom? Learn more about planning a trip to England or Wales. Many travelers also combine their trip to the UK with a visit to Ireland.

How many days do I need?
You can briefly get to know Edinburgh in about 3 days, but to experience the breadth of opportunities Scotland has to offer, upwards of 1 or 2 weeks is much preferable.

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Scotland Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Etive Mor waterfall, Glencoe
Map of Scottish Highlands Self-Drive Tour: Edinburgh, Inverness & Loch Ness - 8 Days
Scottish Highlands Self-Drive Tour: Edinburgh, Inverness & Loch Ness - 8 Days

Discover the enchanting history and dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands with this 8-day self-drive itinerary. Starting in Edinburgh,  drive north to the rugged highlands, where you’ll explore ancient castles, visit important battle sites, sail Loch Ness, and ride the world’s most scenic railway.

Scotland's Edinburgh Castle has stood for over 1,000 years
Map of Scotland & Ireland - 14 Days
Scotland & Ireland - 14 Days

Fourteen days is ample time to experience the best of Scotland and Ireland, be it touring Edinburgh, hiking the Highlands, or reveling in the historic streets of Dublin. The adventures are almost too many to list: wildlife safaris in national parks, boating across Loch Ness, cycling around Glasgow, and exploring the untamed beauty of the Isle of Skye. If that's not enough, you'll hit the road on a drive to some of the most beautiful locales in southern Ireland, like the Wicklow Mountains and County Cork.

Neist Point at Isle of Skye
Map of Best of Scotland: Edinburgh & the Highlands - 7 Days
Best of Scotland: Edinburgh & the Highlands - 7 Days

This seven-day adventure combines Scotland's most memorable tourist destinations with a tour of the countryside in the magnificent Scottish highlands. You will start your trip by exploring Edinburgh's galleries, castles, and pubs before heading to the spectacular castles in Inverness. You'll spend two nights in Portree, where you'll visit castles and famous geological sites and tour the hiking routes before traveling to Glencoe, which is home to spectacular scenery.

The ruins of Castle Urquhart at Loch Ness
Map of Scenic Scotland: Edinburgh, Inverness & Skye - 7 Days
Scenic Scotland: Edinburgh, Inverness & Skye - 7 Days

This week-long itinerary perfectly introduces Scotland's most scenic locales—blending a self-drive adventure with unforgettable guided excursions and experiences. Beginning and ending in the charming capital of Edinburgh, you'll set off into the rugged Highlands for a road trip to remember. Step back in time at the Culloden Battlefield, cruise the legendary waters of Loch Ness, and tour whisky distilleries on the Isle of Skye.

Driving toward Ben Stack on the NC500
Map of The North Coast 500: Road Trip through the Scottish Highlands  - 5 Days
The North Coast 500: Road Trip through the Scottish Highlands - 5 Days

Experience one of the world's most scenic driving routes on this 5-day journey along Scotland's North Coast 500. Beginning and ending in the Highland capital of Inverness, you'll follow the loop counterclockwise as you wind your way past mist-shrouded mountains, hidden lochs, and rugged coastlines. A relaxed pace allows you to take your time and explore plenty of sandy beaches, charming fishing villages, and unspoiled nature.

The Old Man of Storr overlooking Skye's coast.
Map of Hike Scotland's Highlands & Islands: Glen Coe, Ben Nevis & the Isle of Skye - 9 Days
Hike Scotland's Highlands & Islands: Glen Coe, Ben Nevis & the Isle of Skye - 9 Days

This active 9-day hiking itinerary travels through some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes. Starting in the heart of the Highlands, you’ll walk along the West Highland Way, experiencing the wild beauty of Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe. The first leg of your walking journey ends at the adventure capital of Fort William, where you’ll get the chance to scale Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak. After a memorable ride on the historic Jacobite Express Steam Train, board a ferry for the Isle of Skye, where you’ll have three days to explore the rugged mountains, secluded coves, and idyllic villages of the Inner Hebrides.

Make the Most of Your Time in Scotland

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
A Scot plays the bagpipes in Edinburgh
How Many Days to Spend in Scotland

From ancient castles to whisky distilleries and Highland Games (not to mention a mythical monster in Loch Ness), there's a reason bonnie Scotland is awash with "Outlander" fans....

Scotland Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
Sunrise, Loch Lomond
Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in Scotland

Conjuring up romance effortlessly and with subtlety, Scotland is a stunning destination in which to celebrate your love for each other. For the backdrop to your honeymoon here,...

Scotland Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Photo courtesy of Prestonfield House
Edinburgh
Prestonfield House
5.0
(1)
· Luxury
Michelin Key-awarded Prestonfield House is a historic estate hotel in Edinburgh set within 20 acres of peaceful gardens and parkland at the foot of Arthur's Seat. Travelers stay in a countryside-like setting, among wandering peacocks and Highland cows, just a 10-minute drive from the Royal Mile....
Photo courtesy of Rocpool Reserve
Inverness
Rocpool Reserve
4.5
(2)
· Upscale
Rocpool Reserve, a colorful boutique retreat set within a restored Georgian mansion, sits on a quiet residential street above the River Ness. Guests will be within a short walk of Inverness Castle, the city center's shops and restaurants, and convenient routes to Highland highlights like Loch...
Edinburgh
The Raeburn
Upscale
The Raeburn, a stylish Georgian family home-turned boutique hotel in Edinburgh's sought-after Stockbridge neighborhood, blends historic character with a lively local bar and dining scene. Guests stay on a relatively quiet residential street surrounded by independent shops, popular bakeries, and...

Our Latest Scotland Content

Start your trip with a walk along Edinburgh's Royal Mile, home of the Scotch Whiskey Experience
Map of Scottish Whisky Adventure in  Edinburgh, Inverness & Glasgow - 8 Days
Scottish Whisky Adventure in Edinburgh, Inverness & Glasgow - 8 Days

Spend eight fun-filled days indulging in the finest whisky Scotland offers, starting in Edinburgh with a visit to the Johnnie Walker distillery and a private whisky and artisan food tour. From there, pick up your rental car and drive to Inverness for a tour of two Speyside distilleries. This is where you can admire the natural beauty of the Isle of Skye while you taste smoky whiskies characteristic of the island's terroir. Finish the adventure in Glasgow by creating your own bottle of Clydeside whisky to take home.

Look for iconic Highland cows as you explore the rugged Isle of Skye
Map of Soul-Stirring Scotland: Edinburgh, Stirling, Fort William, Skye & Pitlochry - 11 Days
Soul-Stirring Scotland: Edinburgh, Stirling, Fort William, Skye & Pitlochry - 11 Days

This action-packed 11-day itinerary squeezes the best of Scotland into a fast-paced trip. Starting in Edinburgh, you'll strut down the Royal Mile before renting a car and beginning an epic road trip. Wander the halls of Stirling Castle, hike up Conic Hill for views of Loch Lomond, and admire dramatic Highland scenes in Glen Coe. Cross to the Isle of Skye to discover nature's beauty and meet a local artist. Then join a whisky tasting and wildlife safari around Pitlochry before returning to the capital.

Cover a lot of ground as you explore Scotland's Westy Highland Way and overnight in Bridge of Orchy
Map of 16 Days in Scotland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
16 Days in Scotland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With over two weeks in Scotland, you can visit up to 11 towns and cities on a fast-paced itinerary. First-timers will want to hit the highlights like castles in Edinburgh, Stirling, and Aberdeen, while whiskey lovers should experience Scottish culture by distillery-hopping. For a hiking focus, walk some of the scenic West Highland Way or have adventure experiences like canyoning at Bruar Falls. Add a trip to Ireland to drive its scenic southern coast that includes the famous the Ring of Kerry.

Scotland Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 5 Days in Scotland - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Scotland - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 1 Week in Scotland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Scotland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 10 Days in Scotland - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Scotland - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Scotland
Travel specialist Jane Davey
active 10 hours ago

Jane Davey

Born and raised in the UK, I’ve always had a love affair with the great outdoors. It’s no wonder I ended up in travel! Growing up, family holidays meant exploring the UK with my parents and...

read more...
Travel specialist Kateryna Garkavenko
active 3 hours ago

Kateryna Garkavenko

Travel is truly one of the most rewarding experiences we can have. It’s amazing how much we can learn and grow from every trip, and I believe that most people benefit greatly from exploring new...

read more...
Travel specialist Aleksandra Sheb
active 9 hours ago

Aleksandra Sheb

As a passionate traveler, my approach is anchored in the belief that every journey is an opportunity for exploration and growth. With a penchant for immersing myself in diverse cultures and seeking...

read more...
Travel specialist Stephen Molloy
active 21 hours ago

Stephen Molloy

Urbanist by training, he spent most of his twenties traveling and living overseas. Bitten by the bug, he lived in Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, California, Australia, DRC, Kenya, Pakistan...and...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Scotland

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Where to start: the guides, Gareth in Edinbur...
Scotland | Jun 10 - Jun 22, 2026

Rosemary
Rosemary C.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jun 27, 2026
Where to start: the guides, Gareth in Edinburgh, William and Dr Murray in Stirling, and Nathan in Glencoe were all amazing. They were quite knowledgeable in their fields , full of funny and interesting stories and set their pace so Grandma could keep up, Favorite large city Stirling was the best. We were lucky enough to be touring on Armed Forces Day. Not only did we have Stirling Castle and Wallace Monument but the joy of the marching soldiers, bagpipes and dancers. It was wonderful. We... Read more

Where to start: the guides, Gareth in Edinburgh, William and Dr Murray in Stirling, and Nathan in Glencoe were all amazing. They were quite knowledgeable in their fields , full of funny and interesting stories and set their pace so Grandma could keep up,

Favorite large city Stirling was the best. We were lucky enough to be touring on Armed Forces Day. Not only did we have Stirling Castle and Wallace Monument but the joy of the marching soldiers, bagpipes and dancers. It was wonderful. We also had a great meal at the Allen Park. Almost forgot, we also had a fun evening at a pub with many sailors who were heading out to sea the next day.

Accommodations; loved them all but one. Inverness hotel was not our favorite. No parking except a couple of blocks away. Our family room was not in the main building. We had to walk upstairs into the building then downstairs to our basement room. Not the best situation. We really liked the No 17 Promenade in Plockton. Nice rooms, great meal, pretty town to walk about.

Best Day: Isle of Mull. As you know our search for the “hairy coos” was not going well. The girls kept doing internet searches and found the beach for swimming and coos roaming about. Love Scotlands right to roam because that’s what we did. We were on roads that were nothing more than cow paths but finally arrived and were rewarded with lots of coos. Jennifer headed to the Laggnan (sp) beach and swam in the Irish Sea. Carol Ann and I spent lots of time communing with the coos. Such gentle, curious animals. We then joined Jen on the beach and the coos followed us. The babies played then they all laid down for a rest. It was perfect . After so much time there, We only had time to visit the weavers on Mull and spend lots of money. Never even made it to Iona

The Tallisker distillery tour was not very good. The guide spoke too fast and was quite hard to understand.

We did all the hikes. I had some difficulty at the end of Arthur’s Seat and old man of Stor and didn’t quite make it to the top. The girls did though. The downhills were very hard on my old knees. The Fairy Pools were rushing with water. We never saw Divitch (sp) falls but we hiked to the top and down for 6 miles. Loved the gentle stroll with Nathan in Glencoe and the hike we did near Luss and Loch Lomond.

Greatest disappointment other than leaving Scotland was the lack of time we had walking around all the little towns we stayed in. We were always exhausted at the end of our day.
We wish we had more time at Culloden and Cawder Castle. One hour at each was not enough time.

I’m sure I have missed something but I think you get the idea it was a wonderful holiday for all of us. Your team did a great job helping us plan this marvelous visit to Scotland. So much so, we want to come back. Thank you.

Now for the business end. Can I get an itemized account of our trip? Also, since we didn’t do the Jacobite Train do we get a refund? Will definitely use KimKim again. Rosemary Carrico

Local specialist: Liam McGirr
Liam
Liam McGirr
Local specialist in UK and Spain in the Summer | Replied on Jun 30, 2026
Hi Rosemary, I'm so happy you all fell in love with Scotland. Having you, Carol Ann and Jennifer as travellers was a real pleasure, and opening the chat each morning to find photos of your day became a little highlight of mine. The Isle of Mull story made me smile, days of searching and then finally being rewarded with all those coos in their own habitat. Good things really do come to those who wait! And Stirling on Armed Forces Day sounds like it captured the very best of Scotland and its... Read more

Hi Rosemary,

I'm so happy you all fell in love with Scotland. Having you, Carol Ann and Jennifer as travellers was a real pleasure, and opening the chat each morning to find photos of your day became a little highlight of mine.

The Isle of Mull story made me smile, days of searching and then finally being rewarded with all those coos in their own habitat. Good things really do come to those who wait! And Stirling on Armed Forces Day sounds like it captured the very best of Scotland and its culture.

Thank you also for the honest feedback, the good and the bits that fell short. It genuinely helps me improve things for next time.

On the business side, I've gone ahead and processed the refund for the Jacobite Train since you weren't able to do it.

Wishing you a lovely day, and I really hope you travel with us again. It was a joy from start to finish.

Thanks,
Liam

Aleksandra,Sorry it has taken me so long to ...
Scotland | May 21 - Jun 6, 2026

S
Sandra M.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2026
Aleksandra,
Sorry it has taken me so long to post, really busy..
Our trip was amazing. We love the places we went. On Isles of the Sky we got re-routed because 2 vans got stuck on a one car road, they were going opposite directions.. It was the best we then decided to go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens (stunning) and Neist Point Cliff Lighthouse... It was great... Our favorite was Ireland, we are outdoor people and it was beautiful... We did like CLiffs of Moher, but loved Clifs of... Read more

Aleksandra,
Sorry it has taken me so long to post, really busy..

Our trip was amazing. We love the places we went. On Isles of the Sky we got re-routed because 2 vans got stuck on a one car road, they were going opposite directions.. It was the best we then decided to go to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens (stunning) and Neist Point Cliff Lighthouse... It was great... Our favorite was Ireland, we are outdoor people and it was beautiful... We did like CLiffs of Moher, but loved Clifs of Kilkee more. You had less people and got closer to the cliffs...

It is quite interesting how the people of Northern Ireland speak alot of the history. It is still very fresh in their minds, even though the rest of the world it seems to have happened a long time ago..

Loved the people in Scotland and Ireland very kind people...

Thank you so much for making the trip special, you did a great job...

Activity Reviews
The Johnnie Walker Signature Experience
The Johnnie Walker Signature Experience
Edinburgh
Causeway Coast & Antrim Adventure Private Tour
Causeway Coast & Antrim Adventure Private Tour
Scotland
Belfast Private Walking Tour
Belfast Private Walking Tour
Belfast
Private Glasgow Essentials Tour
Private Glasgow Essentials Tour
Scotland
Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle
Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle
Scotland
Local specialist: Aleksandra Sheb

Fabulous tour of Scotland
Scotland | Jun 8 - Jun 19, 2026

G
Gary R.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jun 20, 2026
Every guided tour was excellent. Every transfer was on time with helpful & courteous people. Everything was as planned; expectations met and exceeded. Read more

Every guided tour was excellent. Every transfer was on time with helpful & courteous people. Everything was as planned; expectations met and exceeded.

Hotel Reviews
The Haymarket Hotel
Edinburgh

Great location, great breakfast

Authenticity & Character
Built 1850s
Location
Walking to center city, near train station, near trolly stop
Staff
Clean daily, quick breakfast
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds not the best, very stiff
Bearnock Lodge

Charming, beautiful, fully equipped, extremely comfortable beds

Authenticity & Character
150 years old
Authenticity & Character
150 years old
Location
Deep in the Highlands country
Location
Deep in the Highlands country
Staff
No staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private Transfer
Private Transfer
Scotland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Transfer
Private Transfer
Scotland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bambough and Alnwick Castles & the Borders
Bambough and Alnwick Castles & the Borders
Edinburgh
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Best of York
The Best of York
Edinburgh
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Highland Coo Tour
Highland Coo Tour
Scotland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Edinburgh Castle & Old Town Private Tour
Edinburgh Castle & Old Town Private Tour
Edinburgh
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
None
Highlands Day Tour from Inverness
Highlands Day Tour from Inverness
Inverness
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Isle of Skye Tour including the  Eilean Donan Castle, Portree and other attractions
Isle of Skye Tour including the Eilean Donan Castle, Portree and other attractions
Inverness
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Loch Ness Tour
Loch Ness Tour
Scotland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Aleksandra Sheb

Why travelers love kimkim

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