Not just men in kilts and rivers of whisky: discover the best places in one of the coolest countries in the world
Let’s put it this way: Scotland may not be one of the largest countries in the world, but it’s still pretty big to explore in full—especially because there are so many amazing places to visit that you’d need at least a few years to see them all.
Do you have that much time on your hands?
Probably not, and that’s exactly why, if you want to visit Scotland and truly enjoy it without regretting having missed its most interesting destinations, you need to know what to see before you even leave.
Luckily, we’ve already done the hard work for you: here’s our epic guide to the best places to see in Scotland!
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Edinburgh: the capital
Welcome to Edinburgh, folks!
If you think your uncle tells interesting stories, just wait until you hear what this city has to say. With a history more intertwined than the alleyways of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh is not only the capital of Scotland, but also the world capital of knowing how to entertain visitors.
First stop: Edinburgh Castle, a massive fortress perched on a rocky hilltop that looks like it came straight out of a ghost storybook—and yes, apparently Scotland has ghosts for every taste. The castle isn’t just a historic attraction; it’s the beating heart of the city, especially during the famous Edinburgh Tattoo, when the bagpipes play so loudly they practically make your ears ring.
Spoiler: the Edinburgh Tattoo has nothing to do with tattoos. In this case, the term “tattoo” means a performance by military bands.
Then there’s the Royal Mile, a journey through little shops, pubs where whisky flows more freely than water (oh yes!), and stories from the past chasing each other from one corner of the street to the next. Here, every stone and every alley has something to tell.
And if you happen to be here in August, get ready for the glorious chaos of the Edinburgh Festival, an incredible event where artists perform on every corner and you can enjoy shows ranging from comedy to avant-garde, music to theatre. It’s a bit like carnival, but without costumes and with loads of art.
The Scottish Highlands: wild nature and prehistoric monsters
Visiting the Scottish Highlands is a breathtaking experience, with landscapes so vast and wild that you feel catapulted into a fantasy world, Lord of the Rings style—except the hobbits are replaced by Scots, who are just as friendly and, well, definitely taller!
Let’s start with the spectacular Glencoe Valley, a place where nature truly goes all out: towering mountains, valleys opening mysteriously before you, and absolute silence. In these valleys, you can almost hear the echoes of the ancient clan battles, when Scotland’s most prestigious families fought fiercely against one another.
And then, how could we forget Loch Ness? A lake so wrapped in mystery that even the most skeptical tourist pauses for a moment to scan the waters.
“Nessie,” as the alleged lake monster is affectionately known, is more than a local legend; it’s a cultural icon that attracts curious visitors from all over the world. Sure, the monster might just be a floating log seen from afar—but where would the fun be without a touch of mystery?
The Highlands are the beating heart of Scotland, wild and untamed. Every bend in the road offers a new view, every hill hides a legend, and every pub along the way promises memorable encounters. In short, a journey through the Highlands is an adventure that changes you from within—rather like trying to pronounce “Loch” correctly on your first attempt.
Good luck with both!
The outer islands: a dive into Scotland’s wildest and most remote side
Now let’s head to some of the most breathtaking—and windiest—places in the United Kingdom, from Skye to Shetland, by way of Orkney.
The first of these (the Isle of Skye) is an absolute stunner: mountains plunging into the open sea and the famous Fairy Pools, said to be inhabited by fairies.
Do they really exist?
Who knows—but considering that whisky is Scotland’s national drink, we do have our doubts.
And then there are Orkney and Shetland, where the past still makes itself heard—loudly!
If you love ancient history—really ancient history—these islands will blow your mind: there are loads of archaeological sites dating back to the Neolithic period!
The Kelpies
In the heart of Helix Park, near Falkirk, someone decided to place two steel sculptures depicting enormous horse heads: the Kelpies.
They stand 30 metres tall, were designed by a man named Andy Scott, and were completed in 2013. Since then, they have quickly become one of Scotland’s best-known attractions.
But why on earth did Andy Scott decide to design giant horse heads?
The choice is linked to Scottish mythology: according to local legends, Kelpies are malevolent shape-shifting water spirits. And to lure in unfortunate passers-by, they usually transform into… horses.
You might be wondering why a horse would attract travellers in the first place. Wouldn’t it have been easier to turn into a huge mug of beer? Or maybe an ice cream truck?
We wonder the same thing, but that’s what the legend says. So there you have it.
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In conclusion
A trip to Scotland is a truly unique experience, blending breathtaking landscapes, fascinating stories, and a rich cultural heritage. From Edinburgh with its historic charm, to the mystical Highlands, all the way to the remote and windy outer islands, there is always something new and exciting to discover.
And then there are the Kelpies, adding a touch of strangeness to Scotland’s eclectic landscape.
Scotland is pretty amazing, isn’t it? So how about enjoying it with us?
Take a look at the great trip we’ve prepared for you: an 8-day self-drive itinerary in Scotland, so incredible that when it’s time to go home, we’ll practically have to drag you back while you despair like never before.
Have a look: we’re waiting for you!
