I believe I’m not mistaken in saying that Scotland is a bucket-list destination for many! The Scottish lifestyle, nature all make Scotland a magical country.
Scotland is the second largest part of the United Kingdom, located north of England. It has been part of Great Britain since 1707. Its history and natural features make it a unique country for visitors.
In a separate article, I present Scotland’s most beautiful castles and fortresses!
Table of Contents
Best natural places, cities in Scotland
Edinburgh
Referred to as the „Athens of the North” the vibrant cultural life of the Scottish capital makes it an excellent choice for a few days’ visit.
If visiting in August, you can experience the Edinburgh Festival and The Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival.
Its most famous landmark is Edinburgh Castle, perched on a hill above the Old Town. Here, you’ll find the Scottish National War Museum and the coronation jewels.
To reach the castle, you’ll walk the renowned Royal Mile, flanked by fantastic historic buildings like St. Giles Cathedral.
At the other end of the Royal Mile is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the Scottish Queen. When the Queen is not in residence, its historical apartments are open for viewing.
Glasgow
Scotland’s largest city is situated on the banks of the River Clyde. Just 80 km from Edinburgh, it’s a must-visit.
The city’s Celtic name translates to „green place”, hinting at the roughly 70 parks and green spaces in Glasgow.
One of its most famous buildings is the nearly 1000-year-old St. Mungo Cathedral. Nearby, you can explore the Necropolis, a Victorian cemetery with nearly 3500 memorials, including graves and mausoleums of the wealthy and leaders of that era.
In the West End, you’ll find the Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Scotland’s most visited attraction.
The botanical garden features a huge Victorian cast-iron greenhouse with a vast array of plants from around the world.
St. Andrews
A small town on Scotland’s eastern coast (in Fife county), renowned for its tradition-rich university and as the birthplace of golf.
Here lies the unique St Andrews Links golf facility. In 1754, one of the first golf clubs, The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, was established. The famous clubhouse is adjacent to the Old Course, one of the world’s most famous golf courses.
Outside the town are the ruins of the cathedral, built between the 13th and 16th centuries and destroyed during the Reformation by followers of John Knox. It’s presumed that relics of Apostle Andrew were placed here, leading to the incorporation of the St. Andrew’s Cross in the Scottish flag.
Glencoe Valley
A volcanic valley on the Scottish Highlands, a popular destination for hikers.
Tall peaks, misty valleys, and numerous streams make this landscape breathtaking. In summer, it’s a haven for hikers and climbers, while in winter, it attracts winter sports enthusiasts.
Also known as the „Valley of Tears” referencing the historical event of the 1692 Glencoe Massacre (where English soldiers killed 38 people).
Glenfinnan Viaduct
One of the most famous railway bridges in the world, popularized by the Harry Potter films.
This is where the scenes were shot where the Hogwarts Express passes through the landscape. This bridge has now become a cult attraction among fans, attracting thousands of tourists each year.
The viaduct consists of 21 arches, each 15 meters wide. The total length of the bridge is 380 meters, and it arches about 30 meters high over the Glenfinnan valley.
Cairngorms National Park
The United Kingdom’s largest national park, dominated by the Cairngorms mountain range.
Its central part is the Glenmore Forest Park, which also serves as a visitor center. Located on the shores of Loch Morlich, it’s an ideal starting point for a hike. From here, you can also reach the uppermost car park, where you can hike to the highest mountain peaks.
A visit to the Highland Wildlife Park is a must, where you can see various animal species, including tigers, wolves, and polar bears, living freely in a beautiful forested and hilly environment.
Don’t miss stopping in the charming town of Aviemore! From there, you can travel by steam train or taste excellent beers at the local brewery.
Aberdeen
Scotland’s third-largest city, it’s also the center of the northeastern region.
It boasts a long, sandy coastline, making it popular among tourists. These beaches extend north of the city for several kilometers.
The city also offers plenty of cultural attractions. The most popular is the Aberdeen Art Gallery, showcasing Victorian, Scottish, and 20th-century British paintings. Another notable institution is the Maritime Museum, which presents centuries of history with the North Sea.
Melrose Abbey
Located in the town of Melrose, its name symbolizes a combination of ‘mell’ (mason’s hammer) and ‘rose’ (a symbol of the Virgin Mary), to whom the Cistercians dedicated the abbey.
The abbey was founded by the Cistercian order under the command of King David I of Scotland in the early 12th century. It’s one of Britain’s most beautiful abbey ruins. Here lies the heart of King Robert I of Scotland.
Nearby are the Roman-era Trimontium fort and Dryburgh Abbey.
Mousa Broch
Part of the Shetland Islands, northeast of the mainland, Mousa Island hosts the best-preserved ancient building.
The double-walled tower (broch) is 12 meters high and 15 meters in diameter, likely built around 100 BC. The original staircase is still visible inside.
Loch Ness
Scotland’s most famous and second-largest lake, known primarily for the mythical monster said to inhabit it.
The legend has circulated for centuries, with the first known mention in Saint Columba’s legend from 565 AD.
In 1934, a photo depicting a long-necked monster emerging from the water was taken. Although later revealed as a hoax, the fame has since made the lake a popular attraction.
On its western side is Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s largest fortresses.
Lerwick
If you’re in the Shetland Islands, the region’s center is a must-visit! Those who have seen the crime series „Shetland” will recognize the town. 🙂
It’s home to one of the most famous festivals, Up Helly Aa. Costumed participants parade with torches, culminating in burning a Viking-like ship.
Isle of Skye
Located in the northwest of Scotland within the Hebrides archipelago, it’s considered one of the most beautiful areas.
The small island, with steep mountain ranges, cliffs plunging into the sea, and deep inlets, is rich in natural beauty.
Inhabited since the Mesolithic era, it has a history of Viking rule and was owned by the MacLeod and MacDonald clans.
The ancestral home of the MacLeod family, Dunvegan Castle, is also here.
Orkney Islands
A group of about 70 islands (around 20 inhabited), located 16 kilometers north of the Scottish mainland’s Caithness. The main island is called Mainland (Pomona).
For those who love stunning natural attractions, the coastal areas are a must-visit. The towering cliffs provide breathtaking scenery.
On the main island is the „Heart of Neolithic Orkney” part of the World Heritage Site. This group includes a large burial chamber (Maes Howe), two stone circles (the Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar), and the Skara Brae settlement.
The Ring of Brodgar, located on Bodgar Headland, predates Stonehenge and ancient Egyptian architectural wonders by thousands of years. Millennia ago, the Orkney Islands were the center of Britain.
Anstruther
This picturesque little fishing town is situated on the coast of the Firth of Forth.
The settlement is filled with beautiful, well-maintained old buildings, among which stands out the centuries-old St. Adrian’s Church. One of its most popular attractions is the Scottish Fisheries Museum, which presents the history of Scottish fishing through detailed exhibitions.
The town hosts numerous cultural and music events throughout the year, including the famous Anstruther Harbour Festival, which celebrates local traditions and the community with music, dances, and boat races.
