10 Perfect Days in Scotland

Your trip around Scotland will start in Edinburgh, the country’s capital. Upon arrival, your driver will meet you at the airport to take you to your hotel, The Caledonian Edinburgh, one of Edinburgh’s most significant landmarks. After settling in, you may choose to grab a bite at one of the hotel’s two restaurants. Or, depending on your arrival time, you may wish to take a short taxi ride to the Royal Mile, where you can stroll through closes and monuments as you start to familiarize yourself with the heartbeat of the city. I recommend dinner at The Devil’s Advocate. Housed in a historic Victorian pump house, it features an extensive selection of whiskies and a menu that celebrates Scottish cuisine with a modern twist.

After a hearty Scottish breakfast at the hotel, head to Edinburgh Castle. Standing atop Castle Rock, it overlooks the city and houses centuries of history and legend. Once a royal residence and military stronghold, it now offers a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s past.

Walking through history can work up quite an appetite, so when you finish at the castle, walk down the Royal Mile to Deacon Brodies Tavern, built in 1806 and named after one of the city’s most famous sons, Deacon William Brodie—one of the inspirations behind Robert Louis Stevenson’s Jekyll and Hyde. Throughout the pub, you’ll see references to Brodie and his double life. Be sure to look up; the decorative wooden ceiling is impressive to see. Insider tip: try the cullen skink. It’s delicious!

After lunch, you will continue to explore your way down the Royal Mile as you head towards The Palace of Holyroodhouse, at the end of the Royal Mile. It is the official Scottish residence of the British monarch. Rich in history and elegance, it offers a captivating look into royal life, from grand state apartments to the haunting ruins of Holyrood Abbey. You can explore on your own or with the expertise of a guide.

Step back in time and discover the legends, landscapes, and landmarks that defined Scottish history with a guided tour of Loch Lomond National Park, the Kelpies, and Stirling Castle. This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to admire the beautiful scenery and learn about the heroes, tragedies, and landscapes that defined Scottish history.

Today you will head to Glasgow! This 50-minute train ride departs Edinburgh every 15 to 30 minutes, so take as much time as you like and arrive on your schedule. After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to do with what you will. By now, you may be ready for a little relaxation. I suggest a massage with a thermal experience to really unwind and reinvigorate yourself for the rest of your trip.

Today is a free day to explore Glasgow’s vibrant neighbourhoods as you wish. I recommend Merchant City, with its chic restaurants, galleries, and boutiques in historic warehouses. The West End has a bohemian vibe with cobbled lanes, vintage shops, and cafes, great for evening strolls. And Ashton Lane offers a fairy-light-covered cobblestone lane filled with pubs and eateries.

In the evening, you should definitely check out the music scene! Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music, so checking what gigs are on during your visit is a must—there’s almost always something happening. Here are some options that won’t disappoint:

• Barrowland Ballroom: Legendary live music venue

• King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut: Iconic small venue where Oasis was discovered

• The Stand Comedy Club: Scottish humor at its best

If you are an Outlander fan, no trip to Scotland would be complete without visiting some of the filming locations made famous by the show. A guided tour is the best way to see the can’t-miss sites, including Doune Castle (Castle Leoch), Midhope Castle (Lallybroch), Blackness Castle (Fort William), and Culross (Crainsmuir).

It’s time to head to the Isle of Skye. If you are brave enough to drive yourself, you’ll pick up your rental car and begin one of the most spectacular drives in all of Scotland. As you make your way north, you will encounter lochs, mountains, castles, and photo stops at nearly every bend. Make sure to have a hearty breakfast and leave early, as this drive could take eight hours, with plenty of stops for sightseeing.

Insider tip: The roads are very well maintained, but driving in Scotland can be stressful—you will be on the opposite side of the road and the car. As you go north, you will find many roads are narrow, with pull-outs every so often to stop to enjoy the views or let oncoming traffic pass. You will also need to be on the lookout for local sheep that tend to wander where they want. While it’s the best way to see the Highlands at your own pace, a private driver can ensure you will enjoy the journey and arrive at your destination relaxed.

This morning, you will explore the famed Eileen Donan Castle at the tip of the Isle of Skye. Eileen Donan Castle, set on a small island where three sea lochs meet, is one of Scotland’s most iconic and romantic landmarks. Surrounded by stunning Highland scenery, it offers a glimpse into centuries of Scottish history and has become a symbol of the nation’s enduring spirit.

As you drive east through the stunning landscape, you will soon come to the infamous Loch Ness. As you follow its coastline, keep your eyes peeled for Nessy, the legendary creature with tales of sightings going back centuries.

If you are looking for more history, Urquhart Castle sits on the banks of Loch Ness. These impressive ruins tell stories of clan battles and medieval life. After a stop here, continue your drive into the city of Inverness and your hotel.

A short drive from Inverness, Culloden Battlefield simply can’t be missed. Visiting is a moving experience, where the haunting landscape tells the story of the 1746 battle that marked the end of the Jacobite uprising. The visitor center provides detailed exhibits and personal stories, while the battlefield itself offers a sobering sense of the scale and tragedy of the conflict. Walking the grounds, you can almost feel the history and sacrifice that shaped Scotland’s future. This is a sobering experience, and one you will never forget.

Near Culloden, you will find Clava Cairns, a remarkably well-preserved Bronze Age burial site, featuring stone circles and passage graves that evoke Scotland’s ancient mystique. This is a quick stop, but worth the short drive.

Spend the rest of the day exploring Inverness for shopping and soaking up its rich history and lively modern charm.

On this last full day in Scotland, you will drive through the heart of the Highlands and back to Edinburgh. There is no shortage of places to stop along the way, from Balmoral Castle, home of the British monarchy, to countless other castles, quaint villages, and breathtaking scenic vistas. Take your time and enjoy the scenery in one of the most beautiful places on earth.