15 Days in Scotland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Self-Drive Scotland Highlights Tour: Cities, Castles & Countryside

Embark on a captivating road trip featuring unspoiled coastlines, storied villages, and lively cities on this classic Scotland highlights tour. Starting in Edinburgh, venture north along the coastline of Fife to Aberdeen, continue west through Cairngorms National Park to Inverness, and visit Fort William and Glasgow before completing the loop. Stops at the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, Stirling Castle, and Clava Cairns make the itinerary perfect for first-time visitors

Welcome to Scotland! Your adventure kicks off in the enchanting city of Edinburgh, where a two-hour tour unveils Old Town's picturesque streets and courts. Then, upon collecting a rental car, you'll begin your three-day east coast drive to Aberdeen, stopping along the way to admire Stirling's iconic castle and in St Andrews to hike a lovely portion of its Fife Coast Path. Once in Aberdeen, a three-night stay gives you unhurried time to visit a few of its 263 castles and charming fishing villages. Afterward, venture northwest through Cairngorms National Park to Aberlour and pause here for a whisky-tasting tour.

Next, delve into the history of the Jacobite Rising in Aviemore before continuing to Inverness, where a full-day tour featuring a kiltmaking workshop and Cawdor Castle awaits. A scenic drive complete with a stop at the legendary Eilean Donan Castle brings you to Fort William, and while here, you'll visit the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct. On Day 13,  cruise along Loch Linnhe in search of seals prior to returning to the south to Glasgow. A quick overnight introduces you to the city's lively pubs, but soon, it'll be time to make the hourlong drive to Edinburgh to enjoy a celebratory end-of-adventure dinner following a trek up to Arthur's Seat. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Ultimate Scotland Tour of Glasgow, the Highlands & Shetland Islands

This alternative self-drive tour skips Edinburgh and takes you as far north as Lerwick in the Shetland archipelago, ideal for history and culture enthusiasts eager to delve deeper into Scotland's highlights. Throughout, guided tours of Culloden Battlefield, Glasgow, and the Isle of Skye showcase centuries of stories and off-the-beaten-track landscapes, while free time in Oban and the Shetland Islands allows for self-guided activities. In addition, explore Stirling Castle, cruise Loch Ness, and zip through lush landscapes onboard the Jacobite Steam Train.

An overnight in Glasgow marks the start of your grand Scotland adventure, then, with keys in hand, you'll hit the road to Stirling. Pause here to uncover its layered history and visit the impressive Stirling Castle before conquering a remarkable drive from Aviemore into the Highlands and through Cairngorms National Park to Inverness. After a fast-paced few days, a three-night stay in Inverness allows you to hand the reins over to a guide and delve into the final Jacobite Rising at Culloden Battlefield. You'll also cruise the legendary Loch Ness and roam the ruins of Urquhart Castle, followed by a quick flight to the Shetland Islands.

Your home in the Shetland Islands is Lerwick, which gives you easy access to explore the cliffs at Eshaness and the archaeological sites of Scatness. Afterward, transfer by plane and rental car to Fort William, where a ride aboard the "Harry Potter" famous Jacobite Steam Train awaits, followed by a day trip to the Isle of Skye. Next on your agenda is Oban, and with only a traditional ceilidh experience planned, you'll have plenty of free time to taste whisky and explore nearby small islands. Lastly, stop by Loch Lomond for a scenic cruise before wrapping up your adventure in Glasgow. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Active Scotland Self-Guided Road Trip

Crafted for active explorers, this fast-paced Scotland road trip gets you out cycling, hiking, canyoning, cruising, and paddleboarding amid unspoiled landscapes. Scenic drives and hearty pub dinners offer time to relax, while guided excursions allow you to forget about the logistics and enjoy an immersive time in nature. Throughout, conquer part of the John Muir Way route, soar above Cairngorms National Park in a hot-air balloon, snorkel at Ganavan Sands, and more.

Upon arriving in Edinburgh, an extended cycling tour and a hike along the John Muir Way kicks off your trip. Then, load up your rental car and don your activewear for a three-day road trip north to Inverness, complete with stops to go canyoning at Bruar Falls, search for wildlife in Cairngorms National Park, and experience a hot-air balloon ride. Once in Inverness, a leisurely evening ensures you're rejuvenated for the following days' excursions, including a Loch Ness cruise and a River Spey fishing experience. Afterward, continue to Fort William, which will serve as your starting point to explore western Scotland.

Your first destination in western Scotland is Portree, the capital of the Isle of Skye, and thanks to a half-day e-bike tour, you'll get an excellent introduction to its geological wonders and castle ruins. Back behind the wheel, your next stop is Oban, where a fascinating snorkel experience at Ganavan Sands and a wildlife cruise let you in on its underwater secrets. Afterward, make the short drive to Glen Coe and dedicate your time in this deep valley to kayaking, paddleboarding, and exploring on foot. Lastly, spend two days in Glasgow, checking out its art scene and cozy pubs before returning to Edinburgh. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Great Scottish Whisky Adventure

Get behind the scenes of Scotland's finest distilleries on this 15-day whisky-tasting adventure. From the historic whisky-producing Scottish Lowlands and the single malt haven of the Speyside Area to the distinct flavors of Isle of Skye and Oban, each stop reveals the nuances and techniques that have long stood the test of time. When you're not taste-testing, visits to Blair Castle and Scone Palace, a river fishing experience, and a 4WD adventure through Loch Lomond immerse you in the country's affluent history and lush landscapes.

Begin your journey in Edinburgh and delve straight into the country's fine whisky through tasting sessions at Explorers' Bothy Bar and the Scottish Lowlands' finest distilleries. Then, on the morning of Day 3, hit the road to Pitlochry, where a two-day stay promises time to explore Blair Castle, visit the historic Blair Athol Distillery, and walk off your indulgences at The Hermitage park. Back behind the wheel, you'll find yourself in Inverness, the perfect base to learn about single malt whisky and the art of barrel making in the beautiful Speyside area. 

Week two of your adventure brings you first to the Isle of Skye, where an educational tasting tour through Torabhaig Distillery is followed up with a leisurely day of fishing. Afterward, pause in Fort William to visit the iconic Ben Nevis Distillery before continuing to Oban for a two-night stay. Upon arrival, spend the afternoon at the lovely Oban Distillery, then dedicate the following day to discovering the nearby islands of Mull, Iona, and Staff. Lastly, drive east to Stirling for a thrilling Loch Lomond off-road excursion and tuck into a celebratory end-of-adventure meal in Edinburgh. Learn more

Itinerary #5: Discover the Best of Ireland & Scotland

Uncover natural wonders, imposing castles, and delightful towns on this well-rounded tour of Ireland and Scotland. Perfect for those seeking a fast-paced trip overflowing with activities, you'll overnight in 10 different destinations and conquer drives through the countryside, under mountains, and alongside coastlines. En route, pause at must-see sights, including the Kylemore Abbey, Cliffs of Moher, Edinburgh Castle, and Loch Lomond.

Dublin is bursting with Irish charm and energy, making it the perfect place to shrug off travel fatigue while hopping between highlights, local eateries, and beloved pubs. Yet, the west coast city of Galway is equally enchanting. Over a two-day stay, you'll explore its bustling Latin Quarter and venture to the nearby Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey. Then, pause in County Clare to take in the majestic Cliffs of Moher and overnight in Doolin before catching a flight to Edinburgh. A delightful afternoon tea at Edinburgh Castle greets your arrival while a fun-filled music tour showcases its rich history. 

From Edinburgh, collect a rental car and drive north through Pitlochry to Inverness, stopping en route to walk amid nobility in Scone Palace and explore the dramatic Killiecrankie Gorge. Once in Loch Ness, break from driving to cruise its legendary waters, then continue to Fort William. Here, a guided walk brings you along the forested shores of Glencoe Lochan, while an overnight in Oban introduces you to the region's fine whisky. Next, drive to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, Scotland's first national park, and onward to Glasgow for a walking tour before wrapping up your journey in Edinburgh. Learn more

More Great Scotland Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Scotland? Check out these other Scotland itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.