Scotland Tours

The best time to visit Scotland is during the summer months, which typically run from June through August. During this time, the weather is usually mild, and the days are long, with daylight lasting until 10 pm or later in some parts of the country. This makes it a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching.

However, Scotland's weather can be unpredictable, even in the summer, and rain is always a possibility, so it's important to be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear. Additionally, summer is peak tourist season in Scotland, so popular destinations can be crowded and prices can be higher.

For those who prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) can also be good times to visit Scotland. During these months, the scenery is often at its most beautiful, with spring flowers or autumn foliage adding extra color to the landscapes.

Overall, the best time to visit Scotland depends on personal preferences and interests, but summer is generally considered the most popular time for visitors.

Scotland has a wealth of attractions, ranging from its stunning natural landscapes to its fascinating history and culture. Here are some of the main attractions that visitors to Scotland should not miss:

1. Edinburgh Castle: This iconic castle dominates the skyline of Edinburgh and is home to the Scottish crown jewels.

2. Loch Ness: This famous loch is home to the legendary Loch Ness Monster and is surrounded by stunning scenery.

3. The Isle of Skye: This beautiful island is a popular destination for its dramatic landscapes and rich history.

4. The Scottish Highlands: The rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands is a must-see for any visitor to Scotland.

5. Stirling Castle: This historic castle played a key role in Scotland's history, including being the site of several important battles.

6. The Royal Mile: This famous street in Edinburgh is lined with historic buildings and is home to many of the city's top attractions.

7. Glasgow: Scotland's largest city is known for its vibrant culture, impressive architecture, and lively nightlife.

8. The Whisky Trail: Scotland is famous for its whisky, and visitors can take a tour of some of the country's top distilleries.

9. The Caledonian Canal: This impressive engineering feat stretches from Inverness to Fort William and is a popular destination for boating and hiking.

10. The Orkney Islands: These remote islands off the north coast of Scotland are home to some of the country's most important archaeological sites.

These are just a few of the many attractions that Scotland has to offer. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, there is something for everyone in Scotland.

Scotland has many beautiful islands that are worth visiting. Some of the most famous ones include:

1. Isle of Skye - Located in the Inner Hebrides, the Isle of Skye is known for its rugged landscapes, medieval castles, and picturesque villages.

2. Orkney Islands - This group of islands off the north coast of Scotland is rich in prehistoric history, with ancient standing stones and Neolithic settlements.

3. Isle of Mull - The second-largest island of the Inner Hebrides, Mull is home to beautiful beaches, towering mountains, and diverse wildlife.

4. Isle of Islay - Known as the "Queen of the Hebrides," Islay is famous for its peaty whisky distilleries, as well as its stunning coastal scenery.

5. Shetland Islands - Located off the northeast coast of Scotland, the Shetland Islands are a unique blend of Scottish and Scandinavian culture, with a rich Viking heritage.

6. Isle of Arran - Often referred to as "Scotland in miniature," Arran is a small island off the west coast of Scotland that boasts a range of landscapes, from rugged mountains to sandy beaches.

7. Lewis and Harris - The largest island in the Outer Hebrides, Lewis and Harris is home to some of Scotland's most beautiful beaches, as well as ancient standing stones and other prehistoric sites.

8. Isle of Iona - A tiny island in the Inner Hebrides, Iona is known for its historic abbey and its role in the spread of Christianity throughout Scotland.

These are just a few of the many beautiful islands that Scotland has to offer. Each island has its own unique history, culture, and natural beauty, making them all worth exploring.

Scotland has a rich culinary heritage and is known for its hearty and warming dishes that are perfect for the country's cooler climate. Some of the most famous Scottish dishes include haggis, a savory pudding made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, which is traditionally served with "neeps and tatties" (turnips and potatoes). Other popular dishes include Cullen skink, a creamy smoked haddock soup, and Cullenbie, a fish pie made with smoked haddock and boiled eggs.

Scotland is also known for its seafood, with dishes such as smoked salmon, oysters, and langoustines being popular choices. The country is also home to a thriving whisky industry, and many visitors to Scotland enjoy sampling the different varieties of Scotch whisky on offer.

In addition to its food and drink, Scotland has a lively pub culture, with traditional pubs serving local ales and craft beers alongside classic whisky cocktails. Cider and gin are also popular drinks in Scotland, and the country has a growing number of microbreweries and distilleries producing high-quality artisanal beverages.

Overall, Scottish cuisine and drinks are a unique and flavorful part of the country's culture, and visitors to Scotland are sure to enjoy exploring the local food and drink scene.

Whether or not you need a visa to travel to Scotland will depend on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your stay. As of 2021, citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland can travel to Scotland without a visa for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days.

If you are not a citizen of one of these countries, you may need a visa to travel to Scotland. The specific requirements will vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. For example, if you are traveling for tourism or business purposes for less than six months, you may be eligible for a standard visitor visa. If you are coming to Scotland to work or study, you may need a different type of visa.

It is important to check the visa requirements for your specific situation before you travel to Scotland to ensure that you have the necessary documentation in place. The UK government's website has up-to-date information on visa requirements for all nationalities.

The best way to travel to Scotland depends on your location and budget. Scotland is easily accessible by air, rail, road, and sea.

If you are traveling from overseas, the most common and convenient way to get to Scotland is by air. Scotland has three international airports in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen, and there are direct flights from many major cities around the world.

If you are coming from elsewhere in the UK, you can travel to Scotland by train, bus, or car. Scotland is well connected to England by a network of motorways and major roads, and there are frequent bus and train services between major cities.

Once you are in Scotland, the best way to get around depends on your itinerary and personal preferences. If you are planning to explore the cities and major attractions, public transport is a good option, including trains, buses, and the Glasgow Subway. If you plan to explore the countryside or visit the islands, you may want to consider renting a car or taking a guided tour.

Overall, Scotland has a good transportation system, and getting around the country is relatively easy and convenient.

The currency of Scotland is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Scotland is part of the United Kingdom, and as such, it uses the same currency as England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The pound is divided into 100 pence, and there are coins in denominations of 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1, and £2. Banknotes come in £5, £10, £20, and £50 denominations. It is important to note that while Scottish banknotes are legal currency in Scotland and the rest of the UK, some businesses may not accept them outside of Scotland.

The cost of food and drink in Scotland can vary depending on the type of establishment you visit and the region you are in. Generally, meals at restaurants and pubs can range from £10-20 per person for a main course, and drinks can cost £3-5 for a beer or glass of wine. In larger cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow, prices may be slightly higher. However, there are also many affordable options for food and drink, such as cafes, sandwich shops, and supermarkets, where you can find meals for around £5-10 per person. It's also worth noting that Scotland is famous for its whisky, and while the cost of a bottle can vary widely depending on the brand and age, you can often find tastings or tours of distilleries for a reasonable price.

The general costs of traveling around Scotland can vary depending on your mode of transportation and the level of comfort you prefer. Here are some estimated costs to give you an idea:

1. Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Scotland can range from budget hostels at around £15-25 per night, to mid-range hotels at around £70-100 per night, to luxury accommodations that can cost upwards of £200 per night.

2. Transportation: If you're planning to travel around Scotland, you have several options, including renting a car, taking the train, or using public transportation. Renting a car can cost around £30-50 per day, while train fares can vary depending on the distance and the time of day. Bus fares are typically more affordable, with single fares starting at around £1.50. It's also worth noting that some cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow have bike-sharing schemes which can be a cheap and fun way to explore the area.

3. Food and Drink: As mentioned earlier, the cost of food and drink can vary depending on the type of establishment you visit. However, you can generally expect to pay around £10-20 per meal at a restaurant, and around £3-5 for a beer or glass of wine.

4. Attractions: There are many attractions in Scotland that are free or have a low admission fee, such as museums, galleries, and historical sites. However, some popular tourist attractions like Edinburgh Castle or Loch Ness Cruise can be more expensive, with admission fees ranging from around £10-20 per person.

Overall, traveling in Scotland can be affordable if you plan ahead and are willing to look for deals on accommodations and transportation.

Scotland is generally a safe destination for travelers. It has a relatively low crime rate compared to many other countries, and violent crime is rare. However, as with any destination, travelers should take normal precautions to stay safe. It is advisable to stay in well-lit and populated areas at night, keep valuable belongings secure, and be aware of your surroundings. 

Visitors should also take note of any safety advice given by local authorities or tour operators. In remote areas, such as the Scottish Highlands, it is important to be prepared for changes in weather conditions and potential hazards, such as steep cliffs or slippery paths.

Make sure you follow your guide’s instructions when you are walking in the mountains. If you are on an independent adventure, ensure you have the right equipment and are confident reading maps. 

The emergency number is 999.

No specific vaccinations are required to visit Scotland. The country has a high standard of public health, and there are no major health risks or epidemics that would require visitors to get vaccinated before traveling there. However, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before traveling to any destination, particularly if you have any pre-existing health conditions or concerns. If you are traveling from a country with a high prevalence of certain diseases, such as yellow fever or polio, you may be required to provide proof of vaccination upon entry to Scotland.

Check with your GP before travelling as they’ll have the up to date information.

Travel insurance is mandatory on all our trips. 

Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. The official language is English, but Scottish Gaelic is also spoken in some areas. The emergency phone number in Scotland is 999, which can be used to contact the police, ambulance, or fire services in case of an emergency.

The country has a population of around 5.5 million people and is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Scotland is home to many famous attractions, including Edinburgh Castle, Loch Ness, and the Scottish Highlands.

The currency in Scotland is the British pound sterling (GBP), and most major credit cards are widely accepted. Scotland operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year, except for the period between late March and late October when daylight saving time (DST) is in effect, and the country is on British Summer Time (BST), which is GMT+1.

When visiting Scotland, it's important to keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to pack for all types of conditions. It's also important to be aware of the country's customs and traditions, such as wearing appropriate attire when visiting religious sites or attending formal events.

You can drink tap water in the UK without any problems. Increasingly places are also offering filtered water which is a great alternative to bottled water.

Pubs are an institution in the UK and Scotland has some of the most traditional ones in each town and village you will visit. If you are a whisky fan, why not ask what is local to the area and try it. 

Music is a huge part of Scottish culture and many pubs will have live music in the evenings. Why not ask your guide or hotel for some local recommendations. 

Bring lots of layers and a waterproof, even in summer. The evenings will be colder and rainfall can come along unexpectedly. 

The Internet and phone signal will be great in cities but the more remote you go, the more patchy it will become. Wifi should be available in most hostels and hotels.

Remember that people drive on the left in the UK which can be confusing for most of the rest of the world! Pay extra attention when crossing roads or if you are cycling or driving around the country. 

Our guided adventures will take you to places well off the beaten track and provide experiences that most people just won’t get, with that in mind we encourage you to check out our growing selection! We have a lot of trips and you may find something you like but if not, please do make contact and we can always tailor make a trip for you.

Scotland has several major cities, including:

1. Edinburgh: The capital city of Scotland, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant arts scene. Some of the popular attractions in Edinburgh include Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Arthur's Seat.

2. Glasgow: The largest city in Scotland, Glasgow is famous for its Victorian architecture, cultural attractions, and shopping. Glasgow Cathedral, the Riverside Museum, and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum are some of the top sights in the city.

3. Aberdeen: Located in the northeast of Scotland, Aberdeen is known as the "Granite City" due to its many buildings made of granite. It is also a hub for the North Sea oil and gas industry.

4. Inverness: Located in the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a popular base for exploring the surrounding countryside and visiting attractions such as Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield.

5. Dundee: Situated on the east coast of Scotland, Dundee is home to several cultural attractions, including the V&A Dundee museum and the Dundee Contemporary Arts Centre.

6. Stirling: Often referred to as the "Gateway to the Highlands," Stirling is a historic city located in central Scotland. It is home to Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument, which commemorate Scotland's storied history.

Other notable cities in Scotland include Perth, Paisley, and Livingston.