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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 Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments
Inverness
Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments
4.4
(5)
· Mid-Range
Glen Mhor's location on the banks of the River Ness isn't its only selling point—it's also the only hotel in Scotland with its own on-site brewery and distillery. The setting is ideal for exploring Inverness (guests can walk to the hilltop castle and the historic center in under five minutes),...
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 Toravaig House Hotel
Skye
Toravaig House Hotel
4.5
(2)
· Upscale
This Skye retreat feels more like a private country house than a hotel, with just 11 rooms and a devoted staff of two. The rural setting on Skye's Sleat Peninsula offers far-reaching views across the Sound of Sleat, and the nearest neighbor is the renowned Torabhaig Distillery, just a 10-minute...

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
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Scotland
Travel specialist Jane Davey
active 3 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 1 min 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 26 mins 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 Liz Chreist
active 4 mins ago

Liz Chreist

My favorite definition is- Travel (travel-ǝl)-noun- The only thing you buy that makes you richer. I have had the privilege of traveling to many countries around the world. Traveling close to...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Scotland

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

The perfect Scotland trip
Scotland | Jul 14 - Jul 20, 2026

A
Amber H.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jul 24, 2026
I have been waiting to have a moment to write you a note to say thank you for planning our Scotland trip. We all enjoyed every activity you chose for us! Every detail was absolutely perfect. You selected the most perfect tours/activities to maximize our time in each location and to see as much of Scotland as possible during our stay. I sincerely appreciate the way you planned everything to be so seamless. Our transportation arrangements were all perfectly timed, and it was easy to get to... Read more

I have been waiting to have a moment to write you a note to say thank you for planning our Scotland trip. We all enjoyed every activity you chose for us! Every detail was absolutely perfect. You selected the most perfect tours/activities to maximize our time in each location and to see as much of Scotland as possible during our stay. I sincerely appreciate the way you planned everything to be so seamless. Our transportation arrangements were all perfectly timed, and it was easy to get to our hotel accommodations from each train/bus station. We loved each of the hotels you booked for us in Scotland, and every one of your restaurant suggestions was delicious. Our two private tour guides, Jack in Edinburgh and Stuart in Inverness, were both wonderful. We especially enjoyed Stuart! I cannot say enough good things about our experience with you! I could never have planned such a perfect trip on my own!

Hotel Reviews
Maldron Hotel Glasgow City
Glasgow

Great location. Nice, comfortable room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lochiel Villa Guest House
Fort William

Very nice room that was comfortable for 2 adult and one teen. Note - luggage cannot be stored on site and must be stored about a mile away at another hotel. Not an issue if you know this before you arrive!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
There is no staff on site.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Glen Mhor Hotel and Uile-bheist Brewery & Distillery
Inverness

Beautiful location on the river. Perfect for our family of 3!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh
Edinburgh,

Nice sized room with enough space for 2 adults and 1 teen. Perfect location very close to the train station.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Edinburgh Castle & Old Town Private Tour
Edinburgh Castle & Old Town Private Tour
Edinburgh

Jack was very knowledgeable and informative.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jacobite Steam Train
Jacobite Steam Train
Scotland

This is a wonderful way to see the Highlands!

Quality of Experience
Transport
Half-Day Loch Ness Tour from Inverness City
Half-Day Loch Ness Tour from Inverness City
Inverness

This was one of our favorite parts of our time in Scotland! Our private guide, Stuart, was wonderful and made the experience fun for our whole family!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Real Mary King’s Close
The Real Mary King’s Close
Edinburgh
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The Ultimate Isle of Skye Tour from Inverness
The Ultimate Isle of Skye Tour from Inverness
Inverness
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Aleksandra Sheb

Scottish Western Highlands 2026
Scotland | Jun 29 - Jul 9, 2026

Lee
Lee E.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jul 16, 2026
First of all, we would like to thank Rachael from the bottom of your hearts. She did a wonderful job from the planning of the trip, the zoom call to finalize, and checking on us during the trip. Everything was perfect. Each room was perfect from the Apex in Edinburgh, Tall Pines in Pictlockary, Raasay House, and Glenview B and B in Luss. The castles were amazing from Stirling to Inverary. The scenery along the trip was breathtaking. We hike several trails on Raasay. The climb from the ocean... Read more

First of all, we would like to thank Rachael from the bottom of your hearts. She did a wonderful job from the planning of the trip, the zoom call to finalize, and checking on us during the trip. Everything was perfect. Each room was perfect from the Apex in Edinburgh, Tall Pines in Pictlockary, Raasay House, and Glenview B and B in Luss. The castles were amazing from Stirling to Inverary. The scenery along the trip was breathtaking. We hike several trails on Raasay. The climb from the ocean to the top of temptation was a great hike. Touring the distillary on Raasay and at Oban were wonderful. The tasting at Raasay with whiskey and chocolates was a highlight the trip. The town of Luss was beautiful with flowers blooming outside of the houses.
We would highly recommend Kim Kim and Rachael to everyone who is planning a trip. It will be several years before we can plan our next trip to England. We will be contacting Rachael and Kim Kim when we start planning that trip.

Hotel Review
Pine Trees Hotel
Pitlochry

The room was perfect and the breakfast was wonderful. We arrived at Pine Trees before the rain started. After we were in the room, the rain began and sitting in the room listening to the rain was so relaxing. The hotel had snacks set out and a tea pot in the room. So afternoon tea was so enjoyable.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful interior
Location
Peaceful
Staff
Very friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Perfect
Activity Review
 Raasay Whisky, Gin and chocolate tour
Raasay Whisky, Gin and chocolate tour
Scotland

The chocolates were perfect with the whiskey

Quality of Experience
Staff was great
Guides, Drivers and Staff
All were great
Transport
Local specialist: Rachel Long
Rachel
Rachel Long
Local specialist in Wales | Replied on Jul 26, 2026
Dear Lee and Rick,
We were absolutely thrilled to read your wonderful review! Designing your Scotland adventure was an absolute joy and hearing how much you enjoyed walking on the Isle of Raasay is super. I am delighted that you enjoyed your experience, from castle visits to touring the distilleries of Raasay and Oban. We took great care in hand-picking your accommodations for their location, unique character and service, so we are delighted they suited you perfectly.
Thank you for travelling...
Read more

Dear Lee and Rick,
We were absolutely thrilled to read your wonderful review! Designing your Scotland adventure was an absolute joy and hearing how much you enjoyed walking on the Isle of Raasay is super. I am delighted that you enjoyed your experience, from castle visits to touring the distilleries of Raasay and Oban. We took great care in hand-picking your accommodations for their location, unique character and service, so we are delighted they suited you perfectly.
Thank you for travelling with us, we would love to welcome you back in the future and welcome your friends and family too!
Warmest wishes,
Rachel, Elisa & The Team at High Point Holidays

49 Martial Artists from Colorado Can't be Wrong!
Scotland | Jun 24 - Jul 2, 2026

J
James S.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Jul 09, 2026
This was our 10th world tour for our Taekwondo group, and it was the best! We have had several good agents in the past, but dealing with KimKim has been, by far, the best! Jane Davey and Celina were so helpful and on top of everything, that with my wife's skills, made this the most hassle-free trip we have ever been on.

Even during our trip to Scotland, the incredible agents were there for us, ready to answer any questions, or take care of any little problems that came up (which was...
Read more

This was our 10th world tour for our Taekwondo group, and it was the best! We have had several good agents in the past, but dealing with KimKim has been, by far, the best! Jane Davey and Celina were so helpful and on top of everything, that with my wife's skills, made this the most hassle-free trip we have ever been on.

Even during our trip to Scotland, the incredible agents were there for us, ready to answer any questions, or take care of any little problems that came up (which was minimal).

Jane's suggestions and guidance, and Celina's excellence in coordinating the hotels and activities was amazing! If there was some kind of special award in the travel field, they should be the winners hands down!

Thanks so much KimKim for being at the right place at the right time when we were searching for experts to help us on our complicated journey of our group 49 martial artists travelling so far from Colorado!

When we plan our next trip, there is no question of where we will start!

Hotel Review
Boat Country Inn and Restaurant
Aviemore

The friendliest, helpful staff in Scotland! We will be back! They made our time so memorable!

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful!
Location
Staff
The kindergarten teacher who did our breakfast time was incredible! Thanks!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Stirling Castle Tickets
Stirling Castle Tickets
Scotland
Quality of Experience
Dolphin Watching Expedition
Dolphin Watching Expedition
Inverness

It was obvious there were going to be no dolphins to see, but the boat ride was fine.

Quality of Experience
Three Isles Tour – Mull, Iona & Staffa
Three Isles Tour – Mull, Iona & Staffa
Oban
Quality of Experience
Private Driver Guide - Heritage Tour - Fully Bespoke
Private Driver Guide - Heritage Tour - Fully Bespoke
Scotland

Can't beat James Gray! He took care of and energized us during our time in Oban! Knowledgeable and fun! I'd love to play music with him anytime!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jane Davey
Jane
Jane Davey
Local specialist in United Kingdom | Replied on Jul 14, 2026

Hi James

Wow, thank you a million times over from Celina, The Team and I. It was an absolute pleasure to work with you both. I second that Mindy's planning skills were exceptional - the best!!!

Working with you both in the planning and organisation of this trip was a dream. We simply loved the pictures of your wonderful Scotland adventure, and it truly was a memorable experience for us as a team.

Wishing you many more travel adventures.

All the best, from Celina, The Team and I :-)

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
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You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.