Tours to Scotland: what to see. Guide with prices for vacations

Guide to Scotland

Basic Information

Scotland is a land steeped in history, natural beauty, and rich culture. From the green plains to the craggy mountains and historic castles, it offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. The legacy of figures like Robert Burns and the historical struggles for independence add depth to the country's charm. Exploring Scotland's rugged castles, coastline, and islands, many of which have their own unique characteristics, can be a truly memorable experience. Whether by land or by boat, Scotland has much to offer for those seeking adventure and a taste of its captivating heritage.

Photos of Scotland

Capital

Edinburgh

Language

English

Currency

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Time zone

UTC±0:00 (in summer UTC+1:00)

Population

5 347 600

Territory

80,077 km²

Dishes worth trying:

Huggies — is made from lamb giblets, which are finely chopped with onions and a whole bunch of seasonings.

Stornoway black pudding — one of Scotland's main national dishes. It is essentially a blood sausage with oatmeal added to it

Scottish pie — puff pastry, traditionally filled with offal (lamb or beef) and vegetables (carrots and leeks). There are also variants with finely chopped sirloin.

Scottish breakfast — a plate of eggs, sausage, bacon, fried tomatoes and mushrooms. It will be served with traditional beans and potato pancakes. The meal can be finished with toast with jam.

Scotch Broth — is a lamb broth with the addition of peas, peas, onions, carrots, turnips and parsley. The rest of the ingredients vary: sometimes cabbage, potatoes and even tomatoes are added to the soup.

Cranahan — is prepared on the basis of whipped cream and toasted oat flakes with the addition of whiskey, honey and wild berries.

Things to do in Scotland

Walking around crowded Edinburgh.
Explore historical sites in the Orkney Islands.
Enjoy the unique nature of Scotland on the Isle of Skye.
Visit Loch Ness.
Attend a whisky tasting of the most aged whisky varieties
Visit Fingal's Cave on Staffa Island
Run the entire North Coast 500.
Visit Scottish castles.
A walk through the most picturesque valley of Glencoe

Tips

The timing of your trip to Scotland is essential for making the most of your experience. The period from May to September is generally considered the best time to visit. While Scotland's summers are cool, they offer more favorable weather conditions and longer daylight hours. However, it's essential to keep in mind that even during this season, rain can be frequent. August is a popular month due to various festivals, but it can also be crowded and accommodations may be more expensive. Early spring often brings heavy rains and occasional frosts, so it might not be ideal for outdoor activities. In the autumn, you can witness the stunning display of colorful foliage in Scotland, but the weather can be chilly. Choosing the right time for your visit will depend on your preferences for weather and the type of experiences you want to enjoy in Scotland.

Traveling with a bank card in Scotland is generally convenient, especially in larger towns and cities where most supermarkets and cafes accept contactless payments. However, it's also a good idea to carry some cash, particularly if you plan to visit rural areas or smaller towns. In such places, you may encounter difficulties with larger bills like £100 notes or may find limited options for currency exchanges. Having smaller bills in your wallet can be helpful for such situations.

Stock up on an adapter for an English socket. Of course, you can buy it locally, but it will be 3-4 times more expensive than at home.

There are plenty of ways to travel around this country: hitchhiking, buses, high-speed trains and airplanes. But since trains and planes do not reach many parts of the country, the most popular means of transportation among tourists in Scotland is a car, which can be rented at any airport or found in any, even small towns. Likewise, you can leave it at any office of the same company, even in the opposite corner of the country.

Scotland is famous for its unpredictable weather. Don't trust a clear blue sky - it can change very quickly. It is said that a person can experience all four seasons in one day. Although it can provide an opportunity to see some stunning views. So one should dress warmly and carry both an umbrella and sunglasses.

If a tourist plans to use public transportation, it is necessary to choose buses, as well as trains, as they are often much cheaper. If one is traveling for a few days, it is worth considering a ScotRail pass . They have passes covering most trains, buses and ferries which can be cheaper than individual tickets.

While Scotland is undoubtedly beautiful, there is one thing that can spoil this wonder. Scottish midges are everywhere, especially in the summer. These tiny biting flies are a real nuisance, but they can be repelled with either the traditional herbal bog myrtle or drugstore preparations.

When a tourist travels on foot, especially in the mountains, one should wear comfortable and waterproof shoes that will keep his feet warm and dry. In addition, one should go out as far as he or she can safely go back, as weather conditions can change very quickly. It is also advisable to let someone (friends, family or hotel staff) know your route and arrival time, as communication may not be available in all regions.

Tours to Scotland

Scotland indeed offers a variety of tours and experiences throughout the year. From winter skiing adventures to exploring historic castles and cities during the summer, there's something for every traveler's preference.

Considering the favorable weather conditions during the summer months, it's no surprise that it's a popular time for exploring the country. However, as you mentioned, the off-season can provide cost-saving opportunities for travelers.

Whether you're interested in outdoor activities, historical exploration, or simply relaxing on the beaches, Scotland offers a diverse range of experiences. And with tripmydream's assistance, you can find the best options to suit your interests and budget.

Where to go Scotland

Creating an itinerary for Scotland in advance is an excellent idea to make the most of your trip and ensure you don't miss out on the incredible places this country has to offer. Scotland's diversity, from charming towns and historic castles to breathtaking beaches and natural wonders, requires careful planning to cover your desired destinations. Using tripmydream to assist you in choosing where to go in Scotland can be a valuable resource to help you make the most of your journey and create unforgettable memories.

When to go Scotland

The ideal time to visit Scotland can indeed depend on your interests and preferences. Summer is great for enjoying the seaside and outdoor activities, while spring offers blooming gardens and parks. Avoiding rain for castle visits is a good idea, and late autumn may not be ideal for that. Consider your priorities and decide whether you prefer the perks of each season or are looking to save with off-season travel. tripmydream can provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision on the best time to travel to Scotland based on your specific interests and budget.