Always fancied a trip to Scotland? Why not make this the year for a wee trip to the north of the United Kingdom? Backpacking in Scotland is an experience not to be missed.
Scotland Whiskey, bagpipes, kilts and haggis are synonymous with Scotland and while these cliches can have their merit they also detract from what is a truly unique nation.
Rich in culture, scenery and characters, Scotland is a diverse nation that encapsulates the beauty of natural landscape and the excitement of bustling cities.
From the picturesque highlands to the radiance of the culturally spoiled Glasgow and Edinburgh, there is no excuse to be bored in Scotland.
Check out my Scotland travel tips and itinerary suggestions below with ideas for great places to visit.
Top Reasons to Visit to Scotland
Need some convincing? Here’s why you should go:
Rich History
Historic castles in Stirling and Inverary and relics of famous battles such as those in Bannockburn are testament to Scotland’s patriotism. Architectural enthusiasts in particular will be happy to visit due to feats such as the awe-inspiring Forth Railway Bridge, the largest cantilever bridge in the world, and medieval universities like the prestigious St Andrews can be found in the kingdom of Fife alone. Wherever you explore, gems will be uncovered along the way.
Beautiful Lochs
Relax by tranquil lochs during a sunny afternoon. Many visit Lochness due to its infamous monster but make sure that Loch Lomond is also firmly marked on your map. Being situated only 20 miles from Glasgow, the loch is easy to reach.
It’s a stunning National Park and the largest single inland waterway in Britain. At 27.5 square miles, 5 miles wide and 600ft deep, it’s safe to say… it’s enormous! The rugged highland peaks and glens are ripe for exploring. Do this on the back of a pony, in a kayak, canoe or just use your plain old two feet. You could even catch your own dinner on the bank – anyone for fishing?
Festivals Galore
Summers are especially eventful with a whole raft of festivals dotted around the length and breadth of the country. The most obvious is the Edinburgh Fringe which draws a global crowd and sets the city on fire with it’s top-notch entertainment.
Every year in August the floodgates open in Edinburgh as tourists and locals convene in Scotland’s capital for a bevy of music, theatre, comedy and artistic excellence. T in the Park, the Highlands Festival and Thunder in the Glens (a Harley Davidson rally) are other fabulous events which attract attention year after year.
Rain or Shine
Note that unpredictable weather is a distinct possibility but this is a minor price to pay when visiting a country famed for its hospitality and humour. And as Scottish comedian Billy Connolly once said: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing, so get yourself a sexy raincoat and live a little.”
Top Places to Visit in Scotland
If you are looking to plan a Scotland trip, here are some essential places to add to your itinerary and also some very budget friendly places to stay.
Built upon a series of rocky crags that surround the soaring ‘Arthur’s Seat’, Edinburgh is home to the Scottish parliament and an evocative old town that rests in the shadow of the magnificent Edinburgh Castle. Running from the Castle to Holyrood Palace, the city’s famous Royal Mile is lined with pubs and clubs where you can rub shoulders with the locals.
Hailed as the ‘Granite City’ due to a series of major architectural commissions, Aberdeen’s maritime museum and well-established art gallery warrant investigation. Make a refreshing walk along the city’s sand beach as waves crash in from the North Sea before strolling along the cobbled medieval streets of Old Aberdeen.
Glasgow
Resting on the banks of the River Clyde, Glasgow’s large-scale redevelopment is changing perceptions of Scotland’s largest city. Since being named a UNESCO ‘City of Music’ in 2008, Glasgow’s vibrant live music scene will have you dancing into the wee hours.
Fort William
Located on the idyllic waters of Loch Linnhe, Fort William serves as a key transport hub into the Scottish Highlands. Arrive in style aboard the world famous ‘West Highland’ railway from Glasgow. This scenic line traverses the stunning Beinn Odhar mountain and atmospheric Rannoch Moor en route. Hiking trails weave from town towards Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain.
Isle of Skye
A mere 3 hour car/bus ride from Fort William will transport you to the stunning Isle of Skye. Famed for glittering lochs and jagged mountains, the ‘cloud island’ floats serenely on Scotland’s northwest shores.
Aviemore and Cairngorms National Park
Having grown in prominence during the 60s as a ski resort, Aviemore is also a well equipped gateway for the Cairngorms National Park. Covering 1500 sq. miles, this majestic nature reserve proudly holds the UK’s largest mountain range. 52 soaring peaks stand watch over valleys of rich woodland, home to stunning vistas and a quarter of the UK’s threatened wildlife species.
Inverness and Loch Ness
Stop in Inverness when visiting nearby Loch Ness, home to the fabled Loch Ness Monster!
Braemar
Sitting at the heart of the Cairngorms, Braemar offers plentiful opportunities for seeing wildlife in the spectacular countryside surrounding the small village.
St. Andrews’
Although recognised internationally as the ‘Home of Golf’, St. Andrews’ appeal stretches further than those illustrious fairways. Saunter along the sweeping West Sands beach before refuelling at a promenade cafe with a filling portion of fish and chips. Retreating inland, alleyways connect the small town together, from the iconic ruins of St Andrews Cathedral to the Gothic St Salvator’s Chapel.
Perth
Following the murder of King James I in the 15th century, Perth was replaced by Edinburgh as the capital of Scotland. These days an attractive riverside embankment frames the alluring Tay Street 10. promenade filled with a charming array of quirky shops and cafes.
Scotland Budget Travel Tips
As the birthplace of golf and home to some of the world’s finest whiskey, Scotland is on the life list of many travelers. So how do you see the sights and still stay on budget? Follow these savvy savings tips for an affordable Scottish getaway.
Museums
Many museums throughout Britain are free, and Scotland boasts its fair share of free-to-see exhibit venues. Perhaps the most shining example is the National Museum of Scotland.
In addition to an impressive collection of national antiquities, this museum offers family-friendly features such as changing stations, hands-on discovery zones and the opportunity to play dress up in traditional period costumes.
Located in the Old Town area of Edinburgh, the no-cost museum is just minutes from Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, home to a number of historically-significant buildings and sites.
Trails
Walking is the most frugal form of transportation there is, and you can do plenty of it on Scotland’s version of national trails.
Referred to as long distance routes, these trails take you on multi-day walking adventures through the countryside for the opportunity to spot wildlife, commune with nature, and experience the spectacular scenery this country is known for.
You can find more information online on various trail routes, recommended walks, and advice for things like food, lodging and transportation.
Accommodation
In Scotland, pitching a tent for free to enjoy all that nature has to offer is actually encouraged. Referred to as wild camping, it is a popular and affordable way to enjoy the long nature trails and other wilderness areas.
Proper protocol for minimal impact is expected, so be advised that lugging out your own trash is part of the gig. For those who prefer a less rustic head-resting experience, consider the chic and trendy CitizenM in Glasgow. For approximately £100, you can kick back in mod style while visiting the city. Pair your stay with a visit to the Riverside Museum on Glasgow Harbour.
Deals
The Edinburgh Pass costs less than £50, and provides significant discounts on a variety of dining options and entrance fees, as well as free return airport transfer. While a stay at the Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh might be far out of financial reach for budget travelers, for roughly £40 you can enjoy their luxurious afternoon tea experience in the drawing room. It’s an affordable splurge that costs less than a nice dinner out.
Plan a Trip to Scotland
Hopefully my guide will help you maximise your time in this beautiful country. If you are also keen to visit south of the border view my England travel guide.