Things to do in Scotland

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Isle of Skye which includes a river or creek, mountains and tranquil scenes
Arthur\\\'s Seat which includes heritage architecture, a sunset and a city
Calton Hill which includes heritage architecture, a city and a sunset
Arthur\\\'s Seat featuring a sunset and a city
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum featuring interior views and art

Scotland Attractions

Learn what makes Scotland tick with some of the very best tours & day trips. Look into our {1326 fun activities in Scotland fun activities in Scotland}, and book with confidence knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.


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Scotland must see attractions

1. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle, the oldest building in the city, sits high on a craggy volcanic rock just near the city center. During its history, which spans almost a thousand years, the stronghold has witnessed sieges, served as a military base and provided refuge for Scottish monarchs.
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Edinburgh Castle showing chateau or palace and heritage elements

2. Royal Mile

Go for a sightseeing trip along the Royal Mile, a series of streets that forms the main artery of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the oldest part of the city. This ancient cobblestone route stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It has been used by pedestrians for hundreds of years, and houses some of the city’s most fascinating old buildings.
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The Royal Mile which includes heritage architecture, a house and street scenes

3. OVO Hydro

The SSE Hydro, an iconic, elliptical building on the banks of the River Clyde, is one of the busiest concert venues in the world. The 12,000-seat arena fills up quickly, with fans gathering to see the high-caliber guests who perform here. Join the crowds to experience the electric atmosphere and to sing along with your favorite band.
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The SSE Hydro featuring mist or fog

4. University of Edinburgh

Explore the campuses of the University of Edinburgh and soak up the academic atmosphere in its museums and galleries. Sights such as the quad of the Georgian Old College and the Gothic towers of New College on the Mound are iconic parts of the cityscape.
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University of Edinburgh which includes heritage elements and heritage architecture

5. Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the United Kingdom. In the western portion of the Grampian Mountains, the picturesque giant dominates the skyline and overlooks several lakes. Join the many hikers and mountaineers who battle the elements year-round to conquer the mountain.
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Ben Nevis which includes mountains, forest scenes and tranquil scenes

6. Buchanan Street

Buchanan Street is a common part of any trip to Glasgow as it is bookended by two major stations. Spend time on this wide, car-free street during your trip to the cosmopolitan city. Walk along the length of “Style Mile” for an afternoon of shopping and sightseeing.
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Buchanan Street which includes street scenes as well as a large group of people

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What to do in Scotland

Free Things to Do in Scotland

An escape to Scotland doesn't have to break the bank. You can leave your wallet at home if you go to:

Loch Tay

- There's something soothing about being around water, so be sure to spend a while here.

Ben Lawers

- Get out of the city and immerse yourself in nature at this awe-inspiring place.

Things to Do in Scotland with Kids

There are lots of memorable experiences in Scotland that the whole gang will enjoy. Here are some of the most popular family friendly experiences around.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Scotland? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Scotland

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Scotland

Calton Hill which includes skyline, general coastal views and a city

Edinburgh City Centre

While you're in Edinburgh City Centre, take in top sights like Edinburgh Castle or Scott Monument, and hop on the metro to see more the city at St Andrew Square Tram Stop or Princes Street Tram Stop.

Edinburgh City Centre
Old Town Edinburgh showing street scenes, outdoor eating and a city

Old Town Edinburgh

4.5/5(1,280 area reviews)

Preserving its medieval street plan, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features the Royal Mile, St. Giles' Cathedral, and the National Museum of Scotland. Explore narrow closes and hidden passages for a unique experience.

Old Town Edinburgh
George Square showing a square or plaza, heritage architecture and a city

City Centre Glasgow

4.5/5(623 area reviews)

Home to Glasgow's main cultural venues and higher education institutions, this bustling central district offers luxury apartments, shopping at Buchanan Galleries and Princes Square, and historic sights like Glasgow Cathedral and George Square.

City Centre Glasgow
Edinburgh which includes night scenes and heritage architecture

New Town

4.5/5(898 area reviews)

Discover original neo-classical and Georgian architecture in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, housing the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy Building. Shop along Princes Street, George Street, and the newly redeveloped St James Quarter.

New Town
Inverness Castle showing a river or creek, heritage elements and chateau or palace

Inverness City Centre

4.5/5(346 area reviews)

Known as the capital of the Highlands, this is a city where museums, galleries and restaurants stand before castle and cathedral backdrops.

Inverness City Centre
Royal Yacht Britannia featuring boating and interior views

Leith

3/5(1 area review)

Undergoing significant regeneration, Leith boasts a busy port, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and Ocean Terminal shopping centre. The shore area offers charming pubs and restaurants, while cultural attractions include Leith Theatre and Leith School of Art.

Leith

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Scotland

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Scotland on a sunny day?
What to do in Scotland on a rainy day?
What is Scotland famous for?
With loads of well-known attractions like these to discover, your trickiest decision will be where to begin:

  • Edinburgh Castle
  • Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre
  • Royal Yacht Britannia
  • Palace of Holyroodhouse

What should I not miss in Scotland?
If you're eager to see the best of this place, find time for these attractions in your schedule:

  • University of Edinburgh
  • Edinburgh Zoo
  • George Square
  • Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre

Are there cheap things to do in Scotland?
There are tons of experiences here that are just the thing if you're watching your budget:


What can you do in Scotland for free?
You could leave your money in the hotel safe for the day, because these excellent attractions will cost you nothing:

  • Princes Street Gardens
  • St. Giles' Cathedral
  • Greyfriars Kirk
  • George Square

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