should i visit wales or scotland

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Wales vs. Scotland for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

• Which is Cheaper, Wales or Scotland? (Travel Cost Comparison)
• Which is Bigger, Wales or Scotland?

Should you visit Wales or Scotland?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Wales and Scotland can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Where Should I go: Wales or Scotland?

While it's not terribly full of people, Wales definitely has its fair share of castles. This beautifully landscaped country is practically covered in majestic castles. These castles, and the country's rich history, created a popular tourist scene in Wales after it's time in the coal industry faded. This little country to the west of England is a part of the larger United Kingdom. The UK, or Great Britain, is made up of England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. Remember that those are four different countries when talking to the locals. And the locals will want to talk. With a strong Celtic background, the Welsh are some of the funniest and friendliest people in the world. With the rugged landscape and wild coasts, you'd never guess that this little country is only a two hour ride fro the bustling metropolis of London. The two areas are starkly different.

The enchanting country of Scotland is made of rolling hills, lush scenery, charming villages and pubs filled with think accents and strong pints. This country is a part of Great Britain - also known as the United Kingdom - which includes England, Wales and Northern Ireland. So be careful not to refer to the Scottish as "British," and especially avoid referring to them as "English." Just being aware of the difference will make your trip much smoother. This lively and friendly country has gained a reputation for being dreary and damp. Well, the latter might true, it doesn't stop the Scots from having a grand time. Still, prepare to experience plenty of rain on your trip. With over 700 islands and 5 million people, you'll have no problem finding stunning scenery and delightful conversation.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh , The Best 3-Day Tours from London , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London , and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh .

Which place is cheaper, Scotland or Wales?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Wales Prices UK Prices Scotland Prices UK Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Wales £ 0.00 Scotland £ 148

The average daily cost (per person) in Wales is £0.00, while the average daily cost in Scotland is £148. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Wales and Scotland in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Wales - Scotland £ 72
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Wales £ 0.00 Scotland £ 144

Compare Hotels in Wales and Scotland

Looking for a hotel in Wales or Scotland? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Wales

Hotels in Scotland

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Wales - Scotland £ 38

Is it cheaper to fly into Wales or Scotland?

Prices for flights to both Scotland and Wales change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Wales - Scotland £ 38

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Wales - Scotland £ 26

Tours and Activities in Wales

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Wales.

• Snowdonia: Guided Kayak Adventure: $68

Tours and Activities in Scotland

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Scotland are as follows:

• Errichel Farm Tour : $18
• Invergord on In-app Audio Tour: Explore Local History, Mural: $4.64
• Wildlife Photography Tour in the Cairngorms: $8,092
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Wales - Scotland £ 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Scotland

Also in Scotland, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Aberfeldy Distillery Experience: $22
• Guided Tour in Aberfeldy Distillery with Connoisseur Experience: $47

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Wales and Scotland, we can see that Scotland is more expensive. And not only is Wales much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Wales would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Wales and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Scotland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Scotland than you might in Wales.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Wales Expensive? and Is Scotland Expensive? .

Which has a larger population, Wales or Scotland?

Scotland has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Wales. When comparing the sizes of Wales and Scotland, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

Related Articles for Wales

Related articles for scotland.

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• Scotland , Wales

Scotland vs. Wales

Table of Contents

Are you ready for another UK trip? Dust off your travel gear as you embark on a new journey to let yourself loose for a little while. Leave your troubles behind and allow the best spots in Scotland and Wales to comfort you.

Their breathtaking beauty will remind you how wonderful this world is. Modern life is more often than not too stressful and fast-paced for most people’s taste. If you want a break to slow things down, Scotland and Wales are the perfect destinations for relaxation.

Aside from their gorgeous attractions, the people are friendly and cheerful too. The smiles and warm greetings that you’re going to get are simple gestures that you will always cherish. Even if you’re traveling alone, Scotland and Wales would surely make you feel happy and at home.

You can learn about the history, culture, and traditions of both places in entertaining ways. Participate in fun activities and meet amazing people while you’re on a much-needed break. A trip to Scotland and Wales can even make the simplest moments feel very special. Now, on to which one is right for you—

Is life getting monotonous or too stressful for you? You probably need to take a step back and escape the unpleasant routines to protect your health. The beautiful places and laid-back life in Scotland will help your mind and body recover.

Scottish people are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Some of them might be a little reserved at first but further interactions will make you feel comfortable. You might even meet other tourists who are spending time here for the same reasons that you have.

With good food and scotch on the table, unwinding in Scotland is a refreshing treat. The camaraderie of the people is something you should witness and experience. Bonding with them will help you restore those positive feelings about yourself and the world.

Don’t forget about the Scottish countryside’s beauty that will leave you speechless. In Scotland, the vibe is not that intense so you can catch your breath and take it easy. It’s a place where you can appreciate tranquility without compromising the things that make a vacation great.

After enjoying this kingdom’s quieter areas to regain some strength, use that extra energy by attending events. Many festivals show Scotland’s livelier side. Take a trip to Scotland and get yourself acquainted with nice people and serene landscapes.

What Makes Scotland Unique

Clackmannanshire.

Named after the stone of the Celtic god Mannan, Clackmannanshire is the smallest county in the United Kingdom.

In the Celtic language, Clackmannan means Stone of Mannan. The stone is one of this awesome town’s foundations, and you’ll find it at the west end of Clackmannan Street.

Also known as Clacks, this little Scottish town is known for brewing mills, glass manufacture, and brewing. Clackmannanshire is also a great destination for people who love nature. It’s in the middle of Ochil Hills and River Forth.

While it is famous for different industries, the busy parts of this town won’t leave you feeling exhausted. The wonderful sights can have a calming effect on people who prefer to enjoy nature without going to secluded areas. Some of the most noteworthy attractions in Clackmannanshire are Alva Glen, Dollar Museum, and Dollar Glen.

Alva Glen is a walking trail where your eyes can feast on the beauty of Ochil Hills and the waterfalls along the river. Get your body moving and breathe some fresh air while enjoying the spectacular sights around you. Dollar Glen is another beautiful trail in Ochil where you can have fun and relaxing activities.

A guided tour lets you walk, climb, and swim through the Dollar Glen Canyon. It’s also a great spot for picnics. A snack or meal in the middle of gorgeous scenery would be so nice. You can learn about this wonderful town’s history by visiting the Dollar Museum.

Opened in 1988, it’s a museum where some of the town’s most treasured items are being preserved and displayed. Come and take a break in Clackmannanshire’s rural paradise. Marvel at nature’s unbelievable beauty and have a good time with the townspeople and other tourists.

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. This is a place where you can enjoy the experience of seeing Scotland’s city life. It’s impossible to miss the city’s well-built medieval and neoclassical structures.

The castle that stands beautifully in this hilly city would make you feel like you’re inside a fantasy land. Edinburgh Castle is a 900-year-old castle where kings and queens used to reside. It was also used as a military base during wars.

Edinburgh Castles have seen the rise and fall of many people throughout its existence. But the rich history of Edinburgh is not limited to the confines of this castle. Before reaching it, you’d pass through some amazing sights.

The Royal Mile used to be a processional route filled with old-timey architecture that will leave you speechless. It is where tourism takes center stage. Take a look at St. Giles Cathedral to Holyroodhouse Palace. These exceptional structures bring good vibes to anyone who’s taking a closer look.

Aside from the picturesque buildings, there are pubs and souvenir shops along the way. You can grab a drink and buy unique items that will remind you of this relaxing trip. Look around and see the smiling faces of the wonderful people around you.

Get to know Edinburgh and Scotland on a deeper level by visiting The National Museum of Scotland. The 12 million items in its collection cover a wide range of topics or interests. From stunning works of art to natural and technological wonders, there’s always something awesome to look at.

There’s more to discover in every street and every corner of Scotland’s capital. The city of Edinburgh is a perfect vacation spot for couples, families, and even tourists who travel alone. You’re not going to feel out of place because everyone is just as excited as you are when it comes to exploring.

Just an hour away from Edinburgh, you’re going to find another wonderful Scottish city. The city of Glasgow. It’s a bigger place than Scotland’s capital and it’s the third biggest city in the United Kingdom.

Like Edinburgh, Glasgow is filled with mind-blowing attractions that you should check out. You can visit both cities in a day since the two aren’t so far from each other. After a relaxing time in Edinburgh, you can enhance your Scotland vacation by going to Glasgow.

The city of Glasgow is home to fun-filled festivals and, just like Edinburgh, architectural wonders. Have a great time with the locals and other tourists by attending different music festivals. Let yourself loose and allow the uplifting songs to ease your troubles even just for a bit.

If some cheaply made whisky from who knows where turned you off, give Glasgow a chance to change your mind. This is where you’ll find the best whisky/scotch distilleries in the world. Glasgow’s culinary prowess is on full blast as well, and that’s great news for foodies out there.

Some of the best dishes in Glasgow include seafood like salmon, crab, and mussels. For an excellent dining experience, give your taste buds a treat by trying out food from two famous restaurants. The best seafood restaurants in Glasgow are Gamba and Crabshakk. Drop by and taste their delicious dishes.

Now that you’ve enjoyed the music, food, and drinks, it’s time to take a tour around the city. Looking for magnificent works of art and architecture? Glasgow is surely an amazing place for you. Complete your Glasgow trip by going to Kelvington Art Gallery, Govan Old Church, The Lighthouse, and Central Chambers.

Edinburgh is a more popular tourist destination. But you’re doing yourself a disservice if you don’t give Glasgow a shot. Though there’s a little bit of rivalry between the two, they’re united when it comes to representing Scotland.

Food will always play a big part in your vacation. So a Scotland trip would not be complete if you skip this wonderful country’s national dish. Haggis is a delicious meat pudding that is unique to Scotland.

Scottish people are so proud of this recipe that they even created a party for it. The said party is called Burns Supper. It’s a nod to the Scottish poet Robert Burns. He wrote a poem about Haggis because he loved it so much.

This awesome delicacy is made up of sheep’s liver, heart, and lungs. To enhance the taste, onion, stock, and other spices are added. It’s usually served with turnips and mashed potatoes. If you’re not a meat eater, there are vegan versions of Haggis that can emulate the great taste of the real thing.

A glass of scotch on the side complements the savory taste of this pudding very well. You can order a satisfying serving of Haggis in most restaurants and pubs all around Scotland. It’s also available in supermarkets and butcher shops.

Make your Scotland vacation complete by going on a food adventure. Food is a great way to introduce a visitor to a certain place’s culture and colorful traditions. The most talented cooks in Scotland would be excited to give you a taste of Haggis, so don’t forget to include it on your list.

If you’ve taken fun-filled trips to England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland, there’s one more UK country left. Spend some quality time in the gorgeous kingdom of Wales. Known for its castles, stunning parks, and coastline, Wales is a perfect destination for weekend or day trips.

Just a few hours away from London, a trip to Wales would give you unforgettable sights and experiences. Discover its majestic attractions and rich culture. There are a lot of historical sites for tourists who want to take a glimpse at this country’s past.

Similar to Scotland, Wales is a place where you can have fun and take a very laid-back vacation. Nature’s ability to relieve stress is unwavering. The trees in Welsh parks and the calming breeze on its coastline would help you relax and decompress.

Let your dopamine levels go up by enjoying the view and interacting with the folks around you. Don’t forget about the culinary excellence of Wales. Traditional dishes would surely bring a tasty twist to your trip. The amazing places in Wales will assure you that everything’s going to be fine and dandy.

What Makes Wales Unique

Start your Wales trip by going to its largest and capital city. Cardiff is going to greet you with great visuals and appetizing meals. This city has the most castles in the world. If historic and treasured castles do tickle your fancy, you’ve come to the right Welsh city.

There are 20 castles within its borders, and touring a few or all of them would be great for you. Some of the city’s most visited castles are Cardiff Castle, Dinefwr, and White Castle. Each one is an absolute eye candy so it’s a neat idea to bring a camera so you can take great pictures.

After taking a glimpse at Cardiff’s jaw-dropping structures, there are more things to find and stuff to do. For a crash course on Cardiff’s history, you can take a tour inside St. Fagans History Museum.

The Wales Millennium Centre in the city’s bay area is a complex where different fun events take place. It’s a popular venue for ballet, opera, theater, and orchestral performances. The sounds of classical music can easily put more color and emphasis on the beauty of Cardiff. Let the movements of passionate performers on stage entertain you with their unbelievable talent.

It’s so refreshing to see Cardiff’s beautiful sights and thrilling performances at the Millenium Center. You suddenly heard a sound coming from your tummy. Oops! You’re hungry. You’ve been so mesmerized by everything that you completely forgot to grab some food.

Take this opportunity to taste the most delicious food in the city of Cardiff. The most famous delicacies here are Welsh cakes, Glamorgan sausages, laverbread, and rarebit. These delicacies will satisfy your cravings. After letting out a burp, you can say that the food hits the spot.

Cardiff is already a master when it comes to tourism. As the capital of Wales, you can’t expect anything less, and don’t worry because it will not disappoint. Let this city’s attractions stimulate your senses so you can experience a magical Welsh vacation.

By taking an 11-mile (17.7 km) trip outside of Cardiff, you’re going to reach the city of Newport. Since it’s a coastal city, Newport is a very active place for trade and tourism. This city is going to amaze you with the vibrancy of its tourist attractions.

Some of Newport’s most popular sites are Newport Museum and Art Gallery, Belle Vue Park, and RSPB Newport Wetlands. The Newport Transporter Bridge is also among the city’s most visited sites.

In Newport Museum and Art Gallery, you’ll find a collection of artworks and other memorabilia. Each item tells a story about how Newport dealt with different changes and events in its history. Artworks depict both the historical and the mundane scenes in the city.

A few remnants of the Roman Empire were excavated and also put on display. See the works of very talented artists like Kyffin Williams, Ceri Richards, and Stanley Lewis. From ancient to contemporary, the large collection gives you a better view of the city’s past and present.

Newport’s Public Library is also a part of the museum where years and years of knowledge are archived. Broaden your horizons and play the role of a student by giving this place a visit. A nature-loving tourist like you will enjoy a trip to the RSPB Newport Wetlands.

It’s a nature reserve where you can take guided walks, enjoy some snacks and buy souvenirs. Belle Vue Park is a Victorian public park that includes a bandstand, pavilion, and conservatories. The park is a perfect spot for chilling and recreational activities.

Aside from those three places, there is much more to see and experience in Newport. So if you’ve found your way there, don’t hesitate to explore. Tell your friends and family about this great trip and invite them to join you here next time.

Smallest House in Great Britain

Homes around the world come in different colors and sizes. On the harbor of the walled market town of Conway (Conwy), an old and small house will surely catch your eye. Built back in the 16th century, the smallest house in Britain was home to different tenants until the 1900s.

Simply known as the Quay House, this architectural oddity has been attracting tourists for years.

The last tenant to occupy the Quay House was a tall fisherman named Robert Jones. Jones was forced to move out because the house was too cramped for a big man like him. The dude couldn’t even stand up straight while he was inside.

After serving its purpose as a house for rent, it slowly turned into a tourist attraction. Your eyes can’t miss its bright red exterior paint and, of course, the odd size.

This cute Welsh home is recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the smallest house in Great Britain. Your bedrooms, kitchen, or garage are probably bigger than this little house. If you’re one of the claustrophobic bunch, touring this tiny space may not suit your taste.

But the extremely curious are more than welcome to take a tour during spring and autumn. A lady dressed in traditional clothes is going to guide you and tell you about the unique history of this house. Touring this interesting spot in Wales will cost you 1.24 to 1.86 USD.

Unfortunately, the upper floor is inaccessible because of its age and structural instability. But you can take a peek at the upper area by using a step ladder. Visiting a quirky place in Conwy, Wales for less than 5 USD is a pretty good deal.

The Royal Mint Experience

This one is going to be an absolute treat for coin collectors and enthusiasts out there. Even a casual visitor will have an amazing time at The Royal Mint’s factory. The Royal Mint is the oldest company in the UK and had been in charge of coin production for many years.

It’s a factory originally based in England, but in the 1960s, The Mint relocated to Wales. Inside, you’re going to have a chance to look at how British coins are made and minted. Coin collectors also gather here to trade or sell some precious coins from their collections.

Guided tours also include exhibitions and workshops where both kids and grown-ups can learn and have fun. This is one of Wales’ most popular tourist attractions and a secure spot for selling/trading precious metals. Everyone is welcome to visit The Royal Mint’s factory and have a wonderful experience.

The gift shop offers different items that are dedicated to coin collecting. There’s a cafe where you can take a break and order appetizing snacks and refreshing drinks. Those shiny little things are part of the United Kingdom’s currency and are exclusively made in Wales.

Learn more about the United Kingdom’s coin history by taking a tour inside. The different coins you’ve bought are great souvenir items that you can put on display when you get back home. The Royal Mint is open every day from 10 am to 5:30 pm. Admission is about 17 to 21 USD.

Which Is Better – Wales or Scotland?

Wales and Scotland are awesome tourist destinations in the UK. But because Scotland is a bigger place, there are so many places to visit and things to discover. It’s also a prettier destination, especially for tourists who love breathtaking natural sights.

The Scots are known for their friendliness so talking and getting along with them is easy. Interactions with the locals feel more spontaneous. Welsh people are very nice too but compared to Scottish folks, they’re a little shy or reserved.

They’re all polite and approachable but you might need extra effort to help them get out of their shells. The cost of a Scotland trip is almost similar to a vacation in Wales. The expenses in both countries won’t have a major effect on your decision this time.

Wales is perfect for day trips or short getaways because it’s smaller. But the number of attractions in Wales is limited if you compare it to Scotland’s tourist spots. Scotland is a prettier destination and you just can’t resist the enthusiasm of the people there.

Wales is sometimes unfairly overlooked because it’s a place worth checking out. It cannot always match what Scotland has to offer but Wales is still great for short vacations. Scotland wins because it’s filled with super gorgeous sights that you can’t easily find in Wales.

Wales vs. Scotland Tourism

Tourism is big in Wales and Scotland. Though Scotland is a more popular destination, tourism in Wales is also healthy. The regular arrival of tourists is very important to their citizens.

Wales and Scotland are making 7 billion USD per year from tourism. Aside from giving visitors memorable experiences, it helps in providing jobs to their citizens. With the money you’re spending to enjoy their attractions, you are also supporting their economy.

Is Wales Close to Scotland?

Wales and Scotland are 410 miles (660 km) apart so they’re not that close to each other. You’ll need more than 8 hours to cover the distance by car or bus. Scotland is in the northern part of the UK while Wales is in the south.

The fastest way to travel from Wales to Scotland and vice versa is by plane. A plane ride from one country to the other usually takes an hour or less. There are at least 18 direct flights from Scotland to Wales in a day.

Distance Between Scotland and Wales

The distance between Scotland and Wales is 410 miles (660 km). Traveling by land would take more time so a flight is a good alternative if you’re in a hurry. Booking a flight ahead of schedule is advised as this would help a lot in making your plane trip convenient.

Is Wales Bigger Than Scotland?

Wales is a geographically smaller country than Scotland. The land area of Wales is 8,024 square miles (20,782 km²). Scotland’s territory covers 32% of the UK, and it’s almost four times bigger than Wales. It has an area of 30,090 square miles (77,900 km²).

Are Scotland and Wales Independent Countries?

Though Scotland and Wales are separate countries, they still belong to the United Kingdom. Just like England and Northern Ireland, there’s a level of autonomy but they’re not completely independent states. The UK is under a constitutional monarchy while the Parliament takes care of political matters.

Wales vs. Scotland Hospitality

Hospitality is a big part of tourism and it involves food, entertainment, and hotel accommodations. The accommodating nature of Scottish and Welsh people is perfect for it. Both Wales and Scotland can provide great services and quality goods.

The Welsh hospitality industry generates 4.4 billion USD in a year and employs 170,000 people. Scotland has a bigger hospitality industry than Wales because it’s a bigger country and has more attractions. Hospitality in Scotland makes 6.4 billion USD annually and helps in employing 245,000 people.

Wales vs. Scotland National Anthems

All countries in the United Kingdom sing “God Save the Queen” as their official national anthem. But in some sporting events, Scotland used other songs as their anthems. These songs are “Flower of Scotland” and “Scotland the Brave”.

Wales has its unofficial anthem and it’s a song written in the 1800s. The title of this Welsh anthem is “Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau” and the English title is “Land of My Fathers”. Wales use this song as their anthem in sporting events.

“God Bless the Prince of Wales” was also used as the official anthem of Wales in the 1900s. Scotland and Wales sing different songs as their anthems to display their patriotism. But as members of the UK, they use “God Save the Queen” as their official song.

Scotland to Wales by Train

You can travel from Scotland to Wales by train. But train rides include some changes along the way as there are no direct trips available. Their distance by train is 302 miles (485 km), and a trip can take 6 to 9 hours.

There are 60 train departures daily, and a ticket will cost you 185 to 493 USD. The pricier ticket options include other services like meals and an internet connection. Though not the cheapest and fastest way to travel, a train ride is a great option for sightseeing.

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Britain is open: Why you should visit Wales and Scotland for a slice of Celtic life

The UK is home to some stunning countryside, from beaches and lakes, to mountains and moors. Here’s our top places to visit in Scotland and Wales at any time of year.

With four nations to explore, the UK is the perfect destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. But we think Wales and Scotland have something really special to offer, full of romantic castles, rugged peaks and jutting coastlines.

So here are some of our favourite places to visit at any time of year, in these two Celtic countries.

What are the travel restrictions for the UK?

The UK has just abandoned its red list , so fully vaccinated visitors from all countries are allowed to come to the UK without having to quarantine.

Passengers who are fully vaccinated with approved vaccines - you can check the list here - no longer need to take a COVID-19 test before setting off either.

You will need to prove you are fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to flying, before you get on the plane.

What do I need to do when I arrive in the UK?

Fully vaccinated visitors to the UK need to take a lateral flow test two days after they arrive. This test needs to be booked before travelling, and you will need to provide a picture of your negative result. You can find out how to do so, here .

These tests must be privately booked, you cannot use NHS kits. You must also fill in a passenger locator form, 48 hours before you travel, which can be found here .

If you want to check any other rules for your country, you can do so here .

What is there to do in Wales?

Sitting to the southwest of England, Wales has a rich and independent culture. With epic mountain peaks, extensive coastlines and rolling green fields, there’s lots of nature to explore here.

With so many areas of outstanding natural beauty on offer, we’ve picked our two favourite places in Wales if you’re looking for outdoor adventure.

Snowdonia National Park

Covering 823 square miles of Wales, Snowdonia National Park is a craggy, wild landscape.

Combining ancient Celtic rainforests, windswept beaches and Wales’ highest mountain Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) , the park offers visitors diverse natural experiences.

Can I climb Mount Snowdon?

There are six different paths up the mountain, all between eleven to fourteen kilometres in length. Though they vary in intensity, all are pretty rocky, so take those walking poles.

If you’re not keen to walk, you can also get to the peak via the Snowdon Mountain Railway , which runs between March and October.

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Where can I ride a steam train in Snowdonia?

In the 19th century, many steam railways carried slate from the quarries to surrounding towns.

These days, the quaint trains only carry passengers, but there are plenty of beautiful views to enjoy on the different tracks , from the Llyn Tegid Lake to the harbour town of Porthmadog.

What castles should I visit in Snowdonia?

There’s no shortage of castles in Snowdonia , with many of them dating back to the 13th century.

Harlech Castle, once home to Edward I, overlooks the town below and is a short walk from the long stretch of Harlech beach

Harlech Castle, once home to Edward I, overlooks the town below and is a short walk from the long stretch of Harlech beach, prized for its stunning sand dunes and views.

How do I get to the island of Anglesey?

Just off the coast of north Wales, across the Menai Strait, lies Anglesey.

The island is fully accessible to cars thanks to the Menai suspension bridge and has 125 miles of coastline.

What’s the history of Anglesey?

An island with an ancient history, Anglesey was holy to the Celts and Druid priests planted many sacred oak trees here.

It’s also home to Britain’s longest place name Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch.

Things for families to do in Anglesey

There are lots of great activities for families in Anglesey too.

The Pili Palas Nature Reserve has a tropical butterfly house and nature trail, while visitors to Anglesey Riding School can explore the Menai Straits on horseback, with views of Caernarfon Castle just across the water.

What wildlife can I see on Puffin Island?

If you’re feeling adventurous you can visit Puffin Island, one of the smaller islands in the Anglesey archipelago.

Home to Atlantic grey seals all year round, the main season for visiting is April to July, when you can see guillemots, razorbills, and puffins during their breeding season.

What is there to do in Scotland?

Located at the top of the British Isles, Scotland is a country of epic landscapes and bold spirit.

The sprawling highlands are the best place to visit if you like lush green landscapes and mountains. We’ve picked two of our favourite places for an awe-inspiring holiday.

Should I visit the Cairngorms?

Sat in the northwestern highlands, the Cairngorms is the UK’s largest national park and boasts five of the UK’s highest mountains. It’s also full of wildlife.

From the rare red squirrel to golden eagles and highland cows, there’s plenty to see here.

What animals can I see in the Cairngorms?

If nature spotting is your thing, you can hire a wildlife guide to help you get to the right place, at the right time. From the rare red squirrel to golden eagles and highland cows, there’s plenty to see here.

Whether you want to see capercaillies and dotterels, or hunt for badgers and pine martens at night, a guide will help you spot them all.

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What about a whiskey tour?

If whisky is your tipple of choice, you could do a lot worse than visit Speyside.

Home to many distilleries, the region is famous for the Glenlivet whisky . Gin distilling is also growing in popularity, and gin lovers can visit Caorunn distillery to taste the latest Scottish produce.

What are the snow roads in the Cairngorms?

As the highest road in Britain, the snow road scenic route is 90 miles long and takes you through the wild landscapes of the highlands. With photo posts - a citizen science initiative to map the changing landscape - along the way so you can stop and admire the view at key locations, there’s plenty to see.

With lots of tight bends and single lane tracks, be sure to take it slow as the road takes you from Blairgowrie to Grantown-on-Sprey.

Where is the Isle of Skye?

Sitting off the northwest coast of Scotland, the Isle of Skye is a rough-hewn beauty, connected to the mainland by the Skye Bridge.

Full of fishing villages, weather-beaten rocks and sheer cliffs, Skye is a must visit if you’re in this part of Scotland.

What is the capital of Skye?

Portree is Skye’s capital, founded just 200 years ago as a fishing village.

With colourful houses surrounding a natural harbour and a backdrop of jagged mountains, it’s an ideal place to stay while exploring Skye. Boat trips leave from the harbour, and the town is home to a thriving arts scene, including the popular Aros Centre.

Is the Old Man of Storr worth climbing?

The most famous walk on Skye, the Old Man of Storr , is a collection of tall rocks, which can be seen from miles around.

Formed by an ancient landslide, this rock outcrop, a short distance from Portree, offers panoramic views. The walk up from the carpark will take visitors around 45 minutes - longer if you admire the view.

Can I swim in Skye’s fairy pools?

Close to Glenbrittle in the southwest of Skye, the fairy pools are clear green and blue pools, formed by the River Brittle.

Complete with waterfalls, and sitting at the base of the Black Cuillin mountains, the pools are worshipped by wild swimmers. Beware though, this being Scotland, they are very, very cold.

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Reasons Everyone Should Visit Wales at Least Once

If you love hearty food, the great outdoors, cosy pubs, and discovering new cultures and old traditions then Wales will be great value for your time and money. In truth, the reasons to visit Wales amount to more than a dozen – but we’ve done our best to narrow it down for you.

We have more adventures around the world with our series of Mini Trips – bookable now with Culture Trip.

The language and song

Wales of course has its own language – Welsh – which today is spoken or used by more than one fifth of the population. You’ll hear Welsh spoken in more rural parts of the country, where it is some people’s first language, and on the radio and Welsh TV channels as well as seeing it on the road signs. One sign to look out for is a place called Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch… a town in North Wales with the second longest place name in the world. Wales’ nickname of ‘the land of song’ is reflected in the sing-song sound of the language. There is a strong tradition of singing in the country, which can be enjoyed today through choirs, operas, singing festivals such as Gymanfa Ganu or at an eisteddfod – a Welsh festival of literature, music and performance, a tradition which dates back the 12th century.

The green rolling hills and atmospheric scenery of Wales have inspired many. The landscape is wild, rich and beautiful with plenty to explore. There are the pristine lakes and rivers, the mountains to climb, such as Snowdon, the world-class beaches and the coastal paths. Then there are the Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, of which Wales has five, the 74 nature reserves and the three national parks. That Wales has all this and is still a relatively small country will give you some indication of how richly green and scenic it is.

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The wildlife

If you know where to look, Wales is teeming with wildlife. There are dragonflies and butterflies at the many lakes and gardens, and on the coast you have starfish, crabs and other sea creatures in the rock pools, and dolphins, seals and porpoises in the water. It’s a great bird watching destination too, with one of the most unforgettable activities you can do being a trip to Skomer Island off the Pembrokeshire coast between April and September. There you’ll see hundreds of puffins wandering around (they aren’t particularly afraid of people so you can get quite close) as well as a wealth of other birds and wildlife on this flower-carpeted island.

The food and drink

Forget France, Wales is home to some award-winning cheeses, from strong, creamy cheddars to goat’s cheese and special varieties such as Perl Las and Caerphilly. Passion for cheese is perfectly demonstrated with the famous Welsh snack rarebit: cheese sauce on toast. Other delicacies worth traveling to Wales for include glamorgan sausages (made of cheese and leeks – the later of which is, incidentally, the national symbol of Wales), Welsh cakes (preferably straight from the hot plate), laverbread (made from seaweed) and cockles. Wales is also well-known for craft beer and ales, which go perfectly with the tradition of great pubs. Surprisingly there are also some great wines being produced on Welsh soil too, as the UK wine market booms.

The myth and legends

The land of castles and dragons, the heart of Welsh culture is found in its myths and legends. What many don’t realise is that old Welsh tales such as those of The Mabinogion were the basis of countless stories, the origin of characters such as Merlin and Arthur and books including JRR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings (Elvish was based on Welsh). These stories are all there to explore with re-tellings and performances around the country. With the flag even featuring a dragon, your visit to Wales is sure to be filled with a sense of magic.

No trip to Wales would be complete without a tour of the incredibly charming pubs where you’ll find live music, great food, top quality ales and the warmth of the Welsh people. Going for a walk along the stunning coast and spotting wildlife before ending your day by the fire in a pub can’t be beaten.

The people and hospitality

The Welsh are known for their sense of humour and hospitality. You’ll find a warm welcome and interest in where you come from at most places. They’re also lots of fun, and this is best demonstrated by going to a rugby match at the Principality Stadium. The atmosphere is guaranteed to be electric and you’ll soon find yourself singing along to a passionate rendition of the national anthem with the locals. It’s also a relatively safe country to visit: as long as you take the advice of the guide books and avoid the dodgy areas, you’re unlikely to experience any trouble.

Whether their team is expected to win or lose, sport fans flock to Wales – Cardiff in particular – to soak up the atmosphere at the large central stadiums. Cardiff is a sport fan’s dream with cricket, rugby and football stadiums all in close proximity or right in the middle of the town centre. This means the city is geared towards sport in a way other cities aren’t, ensuring you’ll have a great experience whether you’ve got tickets to the match or not.

The adventure activities

Wales is now a top destination for adventure activities and holidays, with excellent facilities and centres that provide everything you need. Try zip lining through tree tops, abseiling, coasteering, hiring bikes for a scenic ride, surfing, hiking up a mountain or going on a guided cave tour. Then there are the water sports, such as kayaking down rivers, sailing, kitesurfing, white water rafting and even scuba diving.

With the option of entire walking holidays or simply well-marked routes that can be finished in an afternoon, Wales is well built for the hiking enthusiast. While some complain Wales doesn’t exactly have a tropical climate, the temperate conditions make it perfect for a rousing walk where you’re unlikely to overheat and the lack of deadly creatures makes it a safe place, too. There are vast expanses of countryside to explore, plenty of pubs on the way to rest tired legs, mountains to ascend and coastal paths to follow. All in all a Welsh walking holiday is a once in a life time experience.

The beaches and coastline

Wales has some of the best beaches you’ll find anywhere, with several named among the best in the world. There are sand beaches beside pristine blue-green waters, dramatic rocky stretches backed by lush marshes, surf-friendly waves, coasts with a seaside holiday feel (yes, with rides and ice cream parlours), and plenty that are peaceful, secluded and unspoilt. Then there’s the rugged coast line, such as that along Pembrokeshire. Walking its grassy, flower-lined paths will give you incredible views over the sea and cliffs, with the chance to see diving gulls, seals and dolphins in the water below.

The stargazing

The lack of light pollution means several locations in Wales have been awarded International Dark Sky Reserve status. The first was the Brecon Beacons National Park, which was only the fifth in the world to be given this status, followed by Snowdonia National Park and the Elan Valley in mid-Wales. This means Wales is the perfect place to observe the night sky and ponder the universe – with the real chance of seeing shooting stars, too. There are also places with Dark Sky approval which will help you to get the most from the clear skies, such as the National Botanical Garden of Wales or the little Stargazer’s Retreat near Pen y Fan, which has a computerised telescope and an observatory.

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

A Detailed Guide to Planning a Trip to Wales

Last updated: April 17, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 2 Comments

If you’re planning a trip to Wales, then you’ve come to the right place! In this guide we’re going to share everything you need to know to plan the perfect Wales trip. This is based on our experiences of traveling in Wales and also my time living in Wales, which I did for many years. I was actually born in Wales!

In this post, we’ll cover the best times of year to visit Wales, highlights not to miss, how to get around Wales, where to stay in Wales, what to eat in Wales, how to book tours, and many more tips to help you plan the perfect Wales adventure.

We’d suggest reading this guide alongside our detailed Wales road trip itinerary , which will give you more ideas of a specific itinerary and sights to see.

Let’s start with an overview of Wales.

A Quick Overview of Wales

Wales is a country with a population of around three million people. It is part of the Island of Great Britain along with England and Scotland. It is one of the four countries (along with England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland) that make up the United Kingdom.

Geographically, Wales borders England along its entire east coast, from around Chester in the north down to near Bristol in the south. The rest of the countries border is made up of stunning coastline, mostly along the Irish Sea.

The history of Wales is fairly complex. People have been living here for hundreds of thousands of years, with continuous habitation for at least 9,000 years. Since the Roman times, many battles were fought between the Welsh and the English as each side fought for control over what is present day Wales.

One of the side effects of all these wars is that Wales now has a huge amount of castles you can visit which is great as a tourist. There’s also a lot of fascinating history and culture which is unique to Wales.

Back to the present, and modern-day Wales exists as its own country with its own language (Welsh) and, since 1999, its own parliament. However, there are no border controls or anything like that when traveling from England to Wales (they are both part of the UK), and English is also of course the most widely spoken language.

If you are not that familiar with the history of Wales, we can highly recommend reading a book on Welsh history before or during your visit. This will not only help you better understand many of the places you are likely to visit in Wales (e.g., castles, museums, churches, Iron Age ruins), but it will also help you better understand the modern culture and politics in Wales.

What is there to see in Wales?

There is a lot to see in Wales, something really for everyone.

To start with, with so much history spanning thousands of years, Wales has a huge amount of cultural attractions.

From iron age burial chambers to fascinating museums to unique cultural events like the Eisteddfodd , there really is a huge amount to choose from.

Of course, the first thing that likely springs to mind when you think of Wales are the castles, a side effect of all the various wars over the years. Wales has a huge number of castles, including a number of UNESCO listed medieval castles .

In fact, Wales has more castles per square mile than any other country in Europe! Suffice to say, if you like exploring castles as much as we do, Wales has no shortage to offer you.

If you do plan on seeing a lot of castles, then we can highly recommend picking up a Cadw pass. This includes access to a huge number of historic sites in Wales, including most the castles.

You can buy this  online here , or in person at most Cadw sites. We found this saved us a lot of money on our most recent trips.

Lovers of the outdoors, like us, will also find plenty to do in Wales. There’s a huge amount of natural landscapes to explore, from stunning coastal scenery to beautiful hills and mountains. It’s perfect for hikers of all abilities. So whether you prefer to wander along a lovely bit of beach or climb to the top of a mountain, Wales has you covered.

Speaking of beaches, with so much coastline, as you might imagine there are plenty of beaches to choose from. These run the full gamut, from beautiful sandy stretches to those covered in pebbles. So if you’re after a good swim or just a nice walk on the beach, there are lots of options for you.

All that lovely outdoors space also means Wales is a great destination for wildlife. The variety in landscape and habitat means there’s a lot of different bird species you can spot, and there are various nature preserves you can visit where you can spot various types of bird and learn about them.

It’s more than just birds of course, with viewing opportunities for all kinds of wildlife, from seals and other marine life through to mammals, reptiles, and more!

Finally, Wales is also a great destination for lovers of mythology. This should be obvious from the flag, which is emblazoned with a red dragon, arguably the world’s coolest flag. Naturally, you can learn all about the mythology of Wales, from the origin story of King Arthur through to dragons and druids.

Overall, we think it’s fair to say that Wales is not a destination where you will run out of things to do!

Some Basic Information for Traveling in Wales

Let’s cover some basic information for traveling in Wales.

Wales and the wider UK

Wales is a part of the United Kingdom (UK), so once you have entered the UK then you can travel in and out of Wales freely.

If Wales is your first point of entry into the UK (such as if you arrive into Cardiff Airport from outside the UK), then you would need to go through passport control and have the correct visa and any necessary documentation.

You can see more information on any required visas for your visit on the UK government website here or from your own government’s official travel website.

If you arrive into another part of the UK such as England or Scotland, then you don’t need to go through any further controls when you travel to Wales, be that by car, train, or plane.

Getting to and from Wales

Wales is an easy country to get to. In terms of flights, the only commercial airport in Wales is Cardiff airport , which offers both local and international flights to a limited number of destinations.

Wales is also well served by regional transport connections from the UK. By train, Cardiff is around 2.5 hours from London, 50 minutes from Bristol, and 4 hours from Liverpool.

North Wales destinations like Conwy are around an hour by train from Chester, or 3.5 hours from London.

You can also easily drive to Wales from locations around the UK. It’s around 3 hours by car to from London to Cardiff, 4 hours from Liverpool to Cardiff and 7 hours to Cardiff from Edinburgh.

Wales is also served by ferry routes which link Wales with the Republic of Ireland. So if you are doing a trip like our two week UK itinerary , this would let you connect between Wales and the Republic of Ireland.

There are also multiple tours that include Wales, departing from locations such as London or Bristol. More on tours later on in this guide. Suffice to say, you have plenty of options for getting to and from Wales!

Language in Wales

Wales has two official languages: Welsh and English. Just under 20% of the population of Wales speaks Welsh, but pretty much everyone also speaks English.

However you will almost certainly hear Welsh being spoken during your visit.

The main way you will encounter Welsh as a visitor is likely to be on signs. Most signs are provided in both Welsh and English. Place names are also nearly always written in Welsh.

Welsh is a pretty challenging language to learn and the pronunciation is definitely not always obvious! Place names can easily trip visitors up, although the good news is that most Welsh people are pretty used to it.

If you’d like to improve your pronunciation, this is a good starter guide . A good guide book to Wales should also include a guide to pronunciation.

Driving in Wales

Driving in Wales is the same as driving in the rest of the UK, with the main difference being that the majority of the road signs are in Welsh as well as English.

If you drive in Wales, you will quickly learn some Welsh words from the road signs, particularly “Araf” which means “Slow”. In the majority of cases though, signs will be in both English and Welsh.

Other than that, driving in Wales is the same as driving in the rest of the UK. Drive on the left of the road and be sure to observe all speed limits and road rules. Speed limits are normally posted, with the national limit at 60 miles per hour and limits for built-up areas normally 20 to 40 miles per hour. You can see more tips in my guide to driving in the UK .

If you are renting a car ( compare prices here ), you can drive the car between England and Wales without any issues.

Be aware that the majority of cars in the UK use a manual transmission, so be sure to specify an automatic if that is what you are used to driving. Just note that these do normally carry a price premium as they are not as common.

Depending on where in the world you are visiting from and the language your license is in, you may also need an international driver’s license from the country which issues your driver’s license.

Public Transporation in Wales

Wales has a pretty good public transport network, with both buses and trains which link many of the towns and cities across the country. You can see the main transport routes on the Transport for Wales website here .

For travel planning by public transport in Wales (and the UK in general), we recommend and use the Traveline website . It’s a free service provided by a partnership of public transport operators in the UK, and will help you plan your travel between pretty much any two points in the country.

For the majority of public transport in Wales and the UK (especially on longer distance routes) you will get better prices if you book online in advance. We recommend the trainline website for train and bus booking, we’ve used them for years for our public transport needs in the UK.

Other options to consider, especially for long distance bus journeys include National Express and Megabus .

Electricity in Wales

Wales uses the same power system as the rest of the UK. It’s a 220v system which uses a three-pin plug (plug type G).

Travellers from most of the rest of the world, including mainland Europe and the United States will need an adapter like this .

American travellers will also want to check their equipment supports the 220v standard, as the U.S. uses a 110v standard. The voltage a device supports will be written clearly on the power adapter, usually in the form of 110v – 240v.

In our experience most modern laptops, phone and camera chargers, and other small electronics are universal, whilst larger devices like hair dryers and hair straighteners are not.

See more on travel adapters and how to choose one for your trip in our guide to the  best travel adapters .

Currency in Wales

Wales uses the same currency as the rest of the UK, namely Pound Sterling, or GBP (Great British Pounds). Wales uses the bank notes issued by the Bank of England, so the currency in use in Wales looks exactly the same as that used in England.

Note that this is different to Scotland and Northern Ireland, where bank notes are issued by Scottish and Irish banks respectively. These bank notes can also be used in the rest of the UK (and Bank of England notes can be used in Scotland and Northern Ireland).

Time Zone in Wales

Wales is on the same time zone as the rest of the UK, which is either GMT, or GMT+1, also known as British Summer Time (BST).

BST runs from the last Sunday in March through to the last Sunday in October.

Best Times to Visit Wales

You might be wondering when the best time to visit Wales is. Whilst Wales is a year-round destination, there are certainly advantages and disadvantages to visiting at different times of year.

Best for Weather

Wales has a relatively mild climate year-round without tremendous extremes.

If you want warmer weather and longer hours of daylight for sightseeing, then the best time of year to visit is going to be from late May through to mid-September.

This time of year will give you the best chance of good weather and sunny days, although note that rain and cooler temperatures are possible year-round.

The summit of Snowdon in summer – good weather not guaranteed!

Avoiding Crowds

Wales is a popular destination, especially for visitors from other regions of the UK. There are a number of big English cities near Wales such as Birmingham, Liverpool, Bristol, and Manchester, and visitors from these cities regularly take trips to Wales. It is an especially popular destination for families.

As a result, the busiest time of year in Wales is generally going to be over the school holidays (school breaks) in England and Wales.

The exact timing of school holidays varies a little by area, but generally there are major holidays over the Easter period, and over the summer months from mid-July through to the end of August.

There are also “half-term” holidays which occur halfway through each school term and are generally a week in duration. There is normally one in mid-February, one around the end of May and one around the end of October.

The most popular time for people to visit Wales is during the warmer summer months, and during school holidays, especially the Easter holidays, spring half-term, and summer holidays.

As a result, if you want to visit Wales when it is likely to be quieter then you would be best served avoiding these times.

If you still want good weather, we’d suggest June or September to be optimal months, although April and May can offer good weather if you have a bit of luck on your side!

Best for Hiking / Climbing Snowdon ( Yr Wyddfa )

Whilst you can hike in Wales at any time of year, we would suggest that the best times for hiking are going to be similar to that for visiting for the best weather. So that is going to be from late May to mid-September.

Whatever time of year you plan to go hiking though, be aware that the weather can change very quickly. So you will want to be prepared, ensure someone knows your route and where you are going, and pack appropriately. For more information, this safety guide is very helpful.

The most popular hike in Wales by far is the hike up Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh). You can both hike and take a train to the summit, both of which are popular options.

In our experience, Snowdon can be busy year round, but the warmer summer months are definitely the most popular time to tackle the hike.

If you want to avoid the crowds on the hike itself, then we’d suggest avoiding the Llanberis path which tends to be the most popular, and taking one of the other less popular routes such as the Snowdon Ranger path or the Rhyd Ddu path .

Of course, Wales has a great many more mountains you can hike, the majority of which are far less busy and popular than Snowdon. A personal favourite is Cader Idris , which also offers spectacular views across the Snowdonia National Park, and attracts a fraction of the visitors!

Major Festivals in Wales

Wales plays host to a number of festivals and fairs throughout the year, including music festivals, food festivals, literary festivals, craft fairs, art festivals, and more (see a fairly comprehensive list of festivals in Wales here ).

The largest festival in Wales is normally the National Eisteddfod of Wales , which is held for around a week on the first week of August each year. The location for the festival changes each year, and it normally attracts upwards of 100,000 visitors. The festival celebrates Welsh culture, with the events and activities all taking place in Welsh.

If you plan on visiting the Eisteddfodd (or any other festival in Wales), you will definitely want to plan well ahead as accommodation can book out, and the area where the event is being held is likely to be much busier than usual.

Conversely, it’s worth being aware when and where festivals are being held even if you don’t plan on attending them, so you don’t get caught up in the crowds!

How Long to Spend in Wales

As should hopefully be obvious by now, although Wales is a relatively small country, there is a huge amount to see and do in Wales. You could easily spend many weeks exploring the country without running out of things to see and do.

Our recommendation would be to spend at least a week if possible to get a good idea of what is on offer and to have time to explore some of the country’s highlights.

If you have less time, say three to five days, then we would recommend focusing on one area or region of the country rather than trying to cover too much ground.

So, for example, with three days you might want to focus on visiting Cardiff and south-west Wales or explore part of north Wales with visits to Caernarfon and Snowdonia National Park.

If you have a week or more, then you can expand your itinerary to cover more of the country.

We will share some suggested itineraries further on in this guide to help you plan, and we also have a 7 – 10 day Wales road trip itinerary you should find helpful. That itinerary can easily be expanded to 2 or more weeks.

Where to Stay in Wales

Wales has a wide range of accommodation options across all budgets. Whether you prefer camping , glamping , self-catered accommodation , family-run guesthouses , country house hotels or  regular hotels , you are going to find something to suit.

We have stayed at a huge range of accommodation options across Wales, including apartment rentals, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts and hotels. Usually we prefer to either stay at a locally owned bed and breakfast or small hotel. But for longer stays, we normally book an apartment or cottage.

When looking for accommodation, we recommend a mix of the following sites:

• Booking.com – this is usually our first stop for all sorts of accommodation types, from hotels to guests houses to apartments. We like the powerful filter system that allows us to hone in on exactly what we want in each location, as well as the map tool that lets us see different options in different areas.
• Sykes Holiday Cottages – for longer stays in Wales (and the wider UK) we also use Sykes. They specialize in holiday cottages, and we have stayed at some really lovely properties through their system.
• Vrbo UK – if we are specifically looking for an apartment or vacation rental, we’ll also usually look on Vrbo. They offer a good selection of options and it is nice to have a comparison.

If you would like more options for accommodation booking in Wales and the UK, see our guide to booking holiday homes in the UK for some ideas!

What to Eat in Wales?

You might be wondering what food you should try in Wales when you visit, and if there are any uniquely Welsh dishes. Well, the answer is yes there are.

Whilst there are certainly a lot of similarities between Welsh food and English food, including staples such as fish and chips and the full fried breakfast experience, there are some dishes that are common to Wales. Here are some to try:

• Cawl – one of more traditional Welsh dishes, cawl (pronounced cowl) dates back to the 11th century at least and is essentially a stew made with meat, vegetables, and potatoes.
• Welsh Rarebit – whilst this sounds like it’s going to involve rabbit, this quintessential Welsh dish is actually melted cheese on toast. There are variations on the recipe, with mustard or a bechamel sauce added to the cheese. Delicious however it’s made!
• Glamorgan sausage – this popular “sausage” is a traditional vegetarian sausage primarily made from leeks, cheese, and breadcrumbs. It dates back to at least the 18th century but rose in popularity during World War II due to meat rationing and remains popular today.
• Welsh cakes – this small cake is made from dough, raisins, currant and candied fruit peel and then cooked on a griddle. It can be eaten hot or cold and is texturally more similar to a shortbread than a cake. We like it served hot and eaten with butter!
• Bara brith – this fruit loaf is a popular option to have with afternoon tea and is often served with butter on it. It’s basically a fruit cake filled with raisins, currants and dried candied fruit peel.
• Laverbread – This is a very interesting delicacy, which despite the name, isn’t a bread at all. Instead, it’s a puree made from a specific type of seaweed which grows along the Welsh coastline. The seaweed is cooked for hours to form the puree, which is then most commonly served with bread.
• Welsh cheese – Wales is home to many milk producing animals, including cows, goats, and sheep. As such, there are many traditional Welsh cheeses to enjoy. The most well-known is Caerphilly, which is a hard but crumbly white cheese. Others include Y Fenni, Tintern and Pantysgawn
• Local drinks – Wales produces a wide range of local drinks, including locally brewed beers and ciders. There are also over 20 vineyards in Wales producing Welsh wine, and Welsh whisky is becoming more popular as well!

As well as specific dishes, there are also many foods that Wales is generally known for. These include Welsh lamb and beef, seafood, seaweed, and leeks, the latter of which is actually the national symbol of Wales.

If you are going to be shopping and cooking during your time in Wales, you should have no problem finding some local Welsh produce.

We can also recommend The Welsh House for trying a variety of Welsh foods. They are in a few locations, including in Cardiff near the castle. The last time we visited they had a “Taste of Wales” menu option which let us try a lot of different Welsh dishes for a very reasonable price.

Suffice to say, we don’t think you’re going to go hungry during your stay in Wales.

How to get around Wales?

There are quite a few options for getting around Wales, which we’ll go through now.

Our preferred option for traveling in Wales is to drive ourselves. Wales has a lot of attractions that are a little off the beaten path, and a car makes it a lot easier to reach those tucked away castles or hidden beaches.

That said, you should be aware that the road network in Wales is primarily made up of regular two-lane roads rather than multi-lane freeways (known as motorways in the UK).

As such, journey times can take a bit longer than in other parts of the UK. It is difficult to zip across Wales and journeys may take longer that you expect from just looking at the map.

This isn’t a bad thing, as the scenery is generally lovely, and there are plenty of things to stop and look at anyway. However, you’ll just want to be aware when planning that even if the distances don’t look particularly long, it can take a bit of time to get from place to place.

If you are planning on traveling by car and need to rent, we recommend comparing car rental prices on Discover Cars here . They compare all the main providers so you can get the best price for your trip.

Public Transportation

As mentioned in the section on public transport, Wales has a pretty good public transport network.

The main thing to know if you are planning to travel in Wales by public transport is that you’ll definitely want to plan well in advance. You will also want to be aware that it can take quite a bit of time to get between locations.

I have done a fair bit of travel by train and bus in Wales, and whilst the scenery is always very pretty, it can take a while to get from location to location. So just be aware that if you are on a limited timetable, you will need to plan carefully so as not to spend all your time sitting on a bus or train.

It’s also worth noting that whilst trains and buses connect a lot of the country, they don’t go absolutely everywhere. So if there is somewhere you really want to see, do check to ensure you can actually get there by the mode of transport you wish to use.

Overall, whilst you can definitely get around Wales by public transport, for folks on a limited timeframe who want to see a lot, we would probably recommend either driving or taking a tour.

Easiest Places to visit in Wales by public transport?

If you are planning on visiting Wales by public transport, you might be wondering what the best locations are for doing so. Here are some tips.

First, we’d suggest focusing on a specific region of Wales if you plan on visiting by public transport, as then you’ll be able to spend more time sightseeing and less time traveling.

Cardiff is a very well-connected city, and then from here you could easily explore along the south coast to Tenby and even St. David’s.

Alternatively, if you’d prefer to explore more of the mountains, then head to North Wales. I’d recommend taking the train line along the north coast from the English city of Chester (or Liverpool), which connects to a number of other train and bus routes.

This will allow you to explore many highlights of the region, including Conwy, Bangor, Caernarfon, the Snowdonia National Park, as well as the northeast coastline including Harlech and Barmouth.

You could easily make a loop through North Wales by public transport, going into Wales from Chester across to Conwy and Bangor, then heading south down the coast to Barmouth and Aberdovey, and then finally east through Machynlleth to Shrewsbury.

This route will let you explore castles, see coastline and experience the mountains, all without needing a car.

Join a Tour

One of the best way to see Wales in our opinion, especially if you prefer not to drive, is to join a tour. A tour lets someone else handle all the logistics, from planning what to see and do to how to get from place to place.

You do lose a bit of flexibility when taking a tour of course, as they generally follow a fixed itinerary. This is particularly the case if you join a group tour. A private tour will normally offer a lot more customization, with the downside that they tend to be more expensive.

That said, in our experience most group tours focus on the highlights that visitors want to see anyway. Just be sure when choosing a tour to ensure it visits the majority of sights and attractions you really want to see in Wales.

We have some recommended tours of Wales in the section of this guide on recommended tours. You can also see a range of tours by various providers at different price points and durations on TourRadar here .

Best Guided Tours of Wales

A great way to see the highlights of Wales without having to worry about the logistics of planning transport and accommodation is to take a guided tour.

There are a number of tours to choose from that visit Wales, of varying duration and price.

The longer Wales tours generally depart from London, Bristol, or Cardiff.

Some we suggest are as follows:

• This  5 day road trip with Rabbies would be our first pick of available small group tours of Wales. We’ve taken a great many tours with Rabbies and we love their knowledgeable driver guides and small group sizes. This tour departs from London and covers many of the highlights of the country, from Snowdonia down to south west Wales.
• This  8 day tour from Cardiff follows a similar route to our own suggested Wales road trip itinerary . This tour includes time in Cardiff, the Brecon Beacons mountains, Snowdonia National Park, Conwy Castle, St. Davids, Tenby, and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
• If you have less time to spare, then this 3 day tour with Rabbies departs from Bristol and focuses on the highlights of south Wales, including Carreg Cennen Castle, Hay on Wye, St. Davids, Tenby, and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
• This is another 3 day tour with Rabbies which departs from Bristol and focuses on the highlights of North Wales. It includes Snowdonia National Parks, Conwy Castle, Harlech Castle, the Slate Museum, and Portmeirion.

There are of course more tours to choose from in Wales. See  this selection from a range of operators on TourRadar  which will let you sort and filter by duration, places visited and price.

Highlights in Wales

There’s a lot to see in Wales, enough to fill many weeks of explorations. As it can be hard to figure out what to see, we wanted to share some of our personal highlights in the country. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but we do think it covers a lot of what the country has to offer.

We’ve divided it roughly into attractions in the southern half of Wales (basically everything south of around Aberystwyth) and the northern half of Wales (everything north of Aberystwyth).

We think this makes sense because if you are on a shorter timetable you will want to focus on a more manageable area.

If you are lucky enough to have more time then you can definitely visit the whole country!

South Wales Highlights

South Wales has a lot to offer, from the cultural attractions in and around the capital city, through to the stunning landscapes of the Pembrokeshire National Park where you will find ample hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.

This part of Wales is also home to ancient burial grounds, beautiful churches, castles, beaches, and more!

Here are some highlights to consider adding to your Wales itinerary.

• Cardiff Castle
• Cardiff Museum
• St. Fagans (National Museum of History)
• Castell Carreg Cennen
• Caerphilly Castle
• Freshwater Beach
• Whitesands Beach
• St. David’s Cathedral
• Hiking in Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
• Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber
• Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum, Aberystwyth
• Elan Valley
• Brecon Beacons

North Wales Highlights

North Wales is perhaps best known as being how to the spectacular Snowdonia National Park, which is fair enough as it is a truly beautiful part of the world.

However, there’s lots more to this region of the country, from epic castles through to heritage steam railways and wonderful beaches.

Here are a few highlights to consider adding to your itinerary for Wales!

• Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
• Caernarfon Castle
• Beaumaris Castle
• Conwy Castle
• Harlech Castle
• Mount Snowdon & Snowdonia National Park
• National Slate Museum
• Bird Watching in the Dyfi Valley & Coast
• Centre for Alternative Technology
• Barmouth Beach
• Portmeirion

Suggested Itineraries for Wales

There is a lot to see in Wales! We wanted to share some suggested itineraries for visiting the country for different durations, so you can make the most of your visit.

Of course, your mode of transport will dictate exactly how far you are able to go and what you are able to see. If you are relying on public transport, we’d definitely recommend focusing on a smaller area so you can spend more time seeing sights and less time traveling.

If you are on a tour or in your own vehicle, you will likely be able to fit more in.

1 – 3 Day Wales Itineraries

With one to three days in Wales we would highly recommend focusing on a specific area of the country, such as an area of south Wales or north Wales.

For example, for south Wales you might consider spending a day in Cardiff and then a day or two exploring the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, overnighting in St. David’s or the pretty coastal village of Tenby.

Another option would be to focus on the mountains and castles of north Wales.

Basing yourself in Caernarfon for example would put you in easy reach of some of the most spectacular castles in Wales, as well as the hike or train ride up Snowdon. You could easily spend a wonderful one to three days visiting castles, exploring beaches and hiking in the mountains of Snowdonia.

3 – 6 Day Wales Itineraries

With three to six days you would be able to more thoroughly explore a region of Wales.

Again, we wouldn’t necessarily recommend trying to see the whole country in this time period as it might feel a bit rushed. Instead, focus on a particular area and hone in on some of the attractions you are interested in.

For example, if you want to experience culture and coastal scenery, then we’d suggest starting in Cardiff, working your way along the south coast, and then heading up towards Aberystwyth.

Along the way you’ll be able to visit cultural attractions, experience beautiful coastal walks and take in a number of castles.

Alternatively, head up to north Wales. With a bit more time you can explore more of this beautiful part of the world, from the peaks of the Snowdonia National Park to the UNESCO listed castles to the heritage steam railway lines.

We’d suggest basing yourself in two or three locations, such as Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Conwy, or Barmouth, and exploring from there.

6 Day+ Wales Itineraries

With more than six days in Wales, you would be able to explore from top to bottom if you so wished. We’d suggest a loop along the coast, starting in Cardiff, heading out to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, then all the way up to Snowdonia National Park and north Wales.

We have a suggested 1 week Wales itinerary (can be adjusted to 10+ days) for doing just that with lots of detailed information, which we think you’ll find helps you get around.

What to Pack for Wales

Wales, like the rest of the UK, is a country where the weather can be highly variable. Rain is possible at any time of year, as are cooler temperatures.

So when you plan what to pack for your trip to Wales you will want to be prepared for a variety of scenarios. Additionally, as a lot of the activities in Wales involve time spent outdoors and particularly hiking, you’ll want to plan and pack accordingly to ensure you are prepared.

We would recommend reading our guide to what to pack for the UK as a general overview, but also to remember the following items:

• Layered clothing so you can adjust what you are wearing as the weather changes over the day. We’d suggest something like a t-shirt baselayer, a fleece mid-layer and a waterproof outerlayer .
• A good pair of hiking pants and waterproof hiking boots if you plan on doing any hiking. We love our Scarpa hiking boots and have hiked in them all over the world, but there are many options available .
• A travel plug adapter like this so you can charge all your devices
• A good guidebook for Wales which you can use for planning and reference is always a good idea

Further Resources for Visiting Wales and the UK

And that’s it for our detailed planning guide for visiting Wales! We hope you found this guide useful. We also wanted to share some more resources we think might help you with planning this and future trips in the UK.

• We have a detailed 7 – 10 day road trip itinerary for Wales , with day by day highlights, tips on where to stay, and lots more.
• If you’re looking for more road trip inspiration in the UK, we have a  two week UK road trip itinerary  and a  one week UK road trip itinerary . We also have a  one week Cornwall itinerary
• If you’re heading to Scotland, check out our  2 day Edinburgh itinerary , our  Glasgow and Loch Lomond itinerary , our guide to the  best day trips from Glasgow , our guide to  things to do in Edinburgh , our  itinerary for Skye and the Highlands , our guide to the  best day trips from Aberdeen , and our guide to the best  day trips from Edinburgh . We also have a  North Coast 500 planning guide  and  North Coast 500 seven day itinerary
• If you’re not familiar with driving in the UK, see my  guide to driving in the UK  for helpful tips.
• We have guides to many cities in the UK you can check out! See our guides to  things to do in Manchester ,   things to do in Stratford upon Avon ,   things to do in Bristol ,   things to do in Portsmouth , tips on a  weekend in York , tips on  Visiting Oxford on a Day Trip , and  things to do in Cambridge  to get started
• If you’re looking for a guidebook for your trip, check out the  Rough Guide to Wales

And that’s it! Have you ever visited Wales? Do you have anything you’d add to the above? Just let us know in the comments below, and safe travels!

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Claudia says

11th March 2024 at 1:52 am

Hi, there! First, I’d like to say that I find your blog, travel news and tips really useful and interesting!! Then, I wanted to share with you part of my experience in Wales. Last October I traveled solo from Argentina around Wales, England and Scotland. I organised my own trip visiting ONLY castles during 21 days and I can say that Welsh castles just blew my mind!!!! 🥰🥰 I visited some of the ones you’ve mentioned and some you haven’t, and I think ALL are worth seeing: Cardiff, Caerphilly, Chepstow and Kidwelly in the south and Conwy, Caernarfon and Beaumaris in the north ❤️❤️❤️. I really do hope I can go back some time!!! Cheers from Argentina🇦🇷

Laurence Norah says

13th March 2024 at 3:01 pm

Hey Claudia!

Wow, that sounds like an awesome trip 🙂 The Welsh castles are definitely epic, and I’m so glad you enjoyed your time visiting them. I agree, they are all worth seeing. We’re actually heading back to Wales in a couple of weeks to see some more 😉

Safe travels!

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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Driving in Wales

Top Destinations

Best Beaches

Castles to Visit

Weird & Amazing Attractions

Adventurous Things to Do

Things to Do in Cardiff

48 Hours in Cardiff

Snowdonia National Park Guide

Guide to the Pembrokeshire Coast

Food to Try in Wales

Best Restaurants

Your Trip to Wales: The Complete Guide

Wales Guide: Planning Your Trip

With more than 600 castles, unique cultural and culinary traditions, and untamed, dramatic coastline, it's shocking that only a small percentage of visitors to the United Kingdom set foot in Wales. There's something for everyone here, whether you're into trekking mountain peaks in Snowdonia National Park, exploring "Dr. Who" filming locations in Cardiff, or strolling among Easter egg-hued beachfront cottages in quaint Tenby. Plus, it's remarkably easy to get to. Here's what to know for planning your trip to Cymru. (P.S. That's the country's name in Welsh, which you might be surprised to hear throughout the country!)

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : Wales is at its best during the late spring through early summer. You can expect a fair bit of rain, but also beautiful flowers throughout the country. Wales's temperate, humid climate means that there's only a small variation among temperatures throughout the year, with summer temperatures usually hovering in the mid-60s F.

Language: English and Welsh, the latter of which has seen a resurgence in recent years. According to a survey conducted by the Welsh government in early 2020, nearly 30 percent of the population can speak Welsh   , and the government aims to have 1 million Welsh speakers by 2050.

Currency: The pound sterling.

Getting Around : Wales is a tiny country—you can drive from Cardiff, along the Southern coast, to Angelsey, an island in the north, in about four-and-a-half hours, and many of the roads are scenic. Wales is also supported by an excellent network of cycling and rail connections.

Travel Tip: Don't let the tiny size of Wales fool you—this small area can easily sustain a trip of a week or more.

Things to Do

Depending on where in Wales you're visiting, activities can include everything from coasteering off the coastline , visiting the many famous television and film sites (Dr. Who, Harry Potter, James Bond, and Tomb Raider, among others), or simply lying on one of Wales's sprawling, sandy beaches . You won't be bored no matter what you choose.

• Even if you're planning on heading farther afield, spend at least a day or two in Cardiff , Wales's largest city. This bustling university town has excellent nightlife and restaurants and is also home to the National Museum of Wales, which houses one of Europe's best collections of Impressionist art.
• Wales is a surfing hotspot , with surfers taking to the sea in Whitesands and Freshwater West in Pembrokeshire, Oxwich Bay, and Llangennith in Gower, among others. Want to get your feet wet (literally) in a more tame environment? Adventure Parc Snowdonia has an artificial wave lagoon, perfect for beginners.
• With so many castles (and ruins) across Wales , it's hard to choose which to visit. But if you only visit one, make it Conwy Castle . The castle still has a complete set of medieval royal residential rooms, and visitors can walk a full circuit of the eight-towered battlements and town walls. 

Looking for more things to do in Wales? Check out the top 15 destinations to visit in Wales , the best Welsh castles to visit , Wales's best beaches , and adventurous things to do in Wales .

What to Eat and Drink

Wales is home to many unique culinary traditions that can be hard to find elsewhere in the U.K. While some commonly-used ingredients in Welsh cooking—leeks, lamb, and excellent cheese, among others—might not be surprising, they can come together in unique ways. Don't miss trying Glamorgan sausage, an ironically meat-free snack made from cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs, or laverbread, a seaweed harvested in South Wales. You'll also want to tuck away a sleeve of moreish Welsh cakes (firm, thick pancakes studded with fruit) as a souvenir.

Learn more about the best foods to try in Wales .

Where to Stay

Whether you're interested in roughing it or being treated like a queen, Wales has it all. Cardiff, being Wales's largest city, has an abundance of hotel choices, while smaller towns' accommodation options might be limited to quaint pubs or guesthouses.

In the countryside, you'll find castle hotels like Ruthin or Roch Castle , farm stays, and even yurts, and along the coast, there are many seaside resorts. (One of the nicest is Pembrokeshire's St. Brides Spa Hotel , famously where the cast of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" stayed during filming.)

Getting There

If you're spending any measurable amount of time in London, there's no excuse for not visiting Wales—it's just that easy. Getting from London to Cardiff is very easy and affordable via train, which takes only 1 hour, 45 minutes, and costs around $36. If you don't mind a more extended trip, bus tickets can be had for as little as $6.

The Cardiff Airport isn't huge, but it does receive international flights from Paris, Geneva, Amsterdam, Munich, and others. There are also plenty of regional flights from other destinations within the U.K. If your trip is starting in northern Wales, you might find it easier to fly into the U.K.'s third-largest airport   , Manchester Airport, less than an hours' drive from the Welsh border.

Driving in Wales is uncomplicated, but many roads are small, so you shouldn't be surprised if your trip is briefly derailed by a flock of sheep on the road!

Culture and Customs

While Wales is part of the U.K., don't call a Welsh person British! The Welsh are fiercely protective of their country's history and traditions, and the country has its own set of customs, holidays, and even political practices that distinguish it from England. If you're visiting Wales in August, don't miss the annual National Eisteddfod , a massive celebration of Welsh music, poetry, and art.

Money-Saving Tips

• In Cardiff, the excellent National Museum is free. On the outskirts of the city, visit  St. Fagans National Museum of History . This free, open-air museum offers a unique glimpse into Welsh history through relocated historic buildings, reenactments, and more.
• Rugby is huge in Wales, and going to a match is an experience unlike any other. If you're looking to save money on tickets, try to get tickets for the fall international matches (held in November and December), as opposed to the Six Nations matches in early spring.
• For a quick and inexpensive meal on the go in Cardiff, pop into the Victorian-era Cardiff Market. The market has been operating since the 18th century   and is home to butchers, produce vendors, fishmongers, and plenty of Welsh cakes.

Welsh Government. " Welsh language data from the Annual Population Survey: April 2019 to March 2020 ." June 25, 2020

UK Civil Aviation Authority. " CAA Airport Data 2019. "

Cardiff. " Cardiff Central Market ."

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10 unmissable places to visit in Wales

Sep 25, 2021 • 5 min read

From the hills of Brecon to the dramatic coastlines the Gower, Wales has tons of beautiful places to visit © Roy JAMES Shakespeare / Getty Images

With three epic national parks , reams of beach-studded coastline, an underrated capital and more chocolate-box villages than you can shake a love spoon at, small but mighty Wales has a wealth of locations worth adding to your itinerary.

Planning a Welsh adventure but not sure where to start? Be inspired by our selection of the best places to visit in Wales .

Move over Bassey, forget it Tyler – with effortless beauty, an undeniable flair for the dramatic and the X factor that attracts devoted fans in their millions, you could call Snowdonia National Park the ultimate Welsh diva. Beyond its famous peaks, you’ll find ancient forests, sparkling waterfalls, historic mining towns and fairy-tale castles. Are you a thrill seeker? If so, there’s plenty to get your adrenaline pumping, from white water rafting to ziplining over the world’s largest slate quarry and surfing on an inland lagoon.

Pembrokeshire

Popular Pembrokeshire – the most westerly county in Wales – is home to some of the country’s finest beaches, a plethora of pretty seaside towns and the UK’s smallest city, St Davids . The entire coast is a national park, best explored with a hike along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path or on a coasteering tour – the cliff-scrambling sport was born right here. Lovers of wildlife won't want to miss a trip to Skomer Island, where thousands of puffins gather to raise their young come summer, while Harry Potter fans will want to make a pilgrimage to Dobby’s final resting place, Freshwater West beach. If you’re an ancient history buff, don’t miss Pentre Ifan , a prehistoric tomb hewn from the same bluestone used at Stonehenge.

Brecon Beacons 

The undulating hills and quaint villages of Brecon Beacons National Park are an irresistible draw for nature lovers and walking enthusiasts, not least because of the park’s proximity to the major towns and cities of South Wales – Cardiff, Swansea and Chepstow are all less than an hour away. Top hikes include Pen-y-Fan (come mid-week during school term time to beat the crowds) and Sugarloaf Mountain. The region is also an International Dark Sky Reserve – a dream for budding astronomers – so bring your binoculars for a spot of stargazing.

Portmeirion 

Is this Wales or the Italian Riviera? The brainchild of eccentric architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion is unlike anything else you’ll see in the UK , thanks to its hodgepodge of pastel-colored Mediterranean-style buildings and manicured gardens complete with giant chess board and golden Buddha shrine. But despite its commercial theme park-esque leanings, this curated “village” will soon win you over, especially if you stay to watch the sunset over the Dwyryd Estuary. 

Cardiff has all the trappings you’d expect of a cosmopolitan city – great nightlife, vibrant culture and a burgeoning indie food scene – but it all comes in an unusually green and compact package. Wander along the River Taff in Bute Park , picking up a coffee and decadent orange brownie at the Secret Garden Cafe ; catch a musical at the Wales Millennium Centre (nicknamed “the armadillo” thanks to its copper-colored curves); browse for bargains in the capital’s Victorian shopping arcades; or tour the ornate rooms and grounds of Cardiff Castle . Whatever you do, you’ll be met with a warm Welsh welcome.

Hay-on-Wye 

For a wholesome weekend away, look no further than Hay-on-Wye. This charming market town sits snugly between the River Wye and the English border, just north of the Brecon Beacons. It’s known for its annual Hay Festival , a literary extravaganza headlined by big-name authors featuring readings, writers’ workshops and book signings. But there’s still plenty to do year-round if you can’t make the festival. Peruse the abundant antique markets and secondhand book stores, hike to Hay Bluff via Offa’s Dyke Path or opt for a spot of wild swimming at The Warren, a pebble beach on the river bank. 

Slow travel comes with a historic twist in Llangollen, a compact, culture-packed town in North East Wales. A heritage steam train trundles between Llangollen and Corwen daily from February to October, and the town is a popular launchpad for hiking the ancient national trail, Offa’s Dyke Path. Don’t miss a trip to Pontcysyllte Aqueduct : towering 125ft (38m) above the River Dee, this spectacular World Heritage Site is the highest canal aqueduct ever built and can be traversed by foot, canal or even kayak. For a livelier time, visit in July, along with 120,000 other people, to attend the International Musical Eisteddfod and Fringe Festival.

Gower Peninsula 

The UK’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), this 70-sq-mile (180 sq km) peninsula is renowned for its dramatic coastline and fabulous beaches. Following the south coast west from Swansea and the Mumbles , you’ll find a smattering of family-friendly bays (try Caswell and Langland for starters) backed by heather- and gorse-clad cliffs. Three-mile-long Rhossili Bay Beach dominates the peninsula’s west coast, spoiling visitors with broad golden sands, rolling surf and coastal walking trails peppered with ancient ruins. It’s worth saving time for a walk to Worms Head – the rocky promontory at the southern end of the beach – but keep an eye on the tides to avoid ending up stranded.

The Isle of Anglesey has two obvious claims to fame: it’s where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge lived in the early years of their marriage, and it’s here you’ll find the village with the longest place name in Europe: Llanfair­pwllgwyngyll­gogery­chwyrn­drobwll­llan­tysilio­gogo­goch (a selfie next to the train station’s expansive sign is a tourist rite of passage). But the real magic is found along Anglesey’s coast (another AONB), whether you’re hiking the Wales Coast Path to bird-spotting heaven, South Stack Cliffs RSPB Reserve ; stand up paddleboarding on the Menai Strait; or lounging on Llanddwyn beach, a curve of pale sand backed by Corsican pines with views of Snowdonia. Beaumaris – with its Unesco-listed castle – makes a fine base from which to explore.

Machynlleth

This unassuming market town on the southern border of Snowdonia National Park is something of a cultural powerhouse. Once the capital of Wales (freedom fighter Owain Glyndŵr was crowned Prince of Wales here in 1404), today travelers come for the Museum of Modern Art and the increasingly popular Machynlleth Comedy Festival , which takes place each May. Save time for a day at the mostly open-air Centre for Alternative Technology , where you can learn about sustainable ways of living.

You might also like: The 10 most beautiful hikes in Wales The UK's longest mountain bike trail for beginners is now open How to spend a weekend in Anglesey, the eco-friendly island loved by William and Kate   

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Hi everyone

I'm researching the trip I'm taking with my partner in April next year, and I now have a specific question. This is what I've decided on so far:

Drive to the Cotswolds. Stay over in either Cheltenham or Stratford for 3 nights. Explore Bibury, Warwich Castel Gloucester, Chipping Campden, Blenheim, etc.

Now, the next step of the journey we can either drive to Chester, stay over there for a night, and go on to Caernarvon or Llandudno in Wales and spend some time there. Then drive to York (stay 3 nights) and then to Edinburgh (2 nights).

We can drive straight to York (spend 3 nights), and from York to Scotland where we can spend 5 days.

What do you suggest? Skip Wales and spend more time in Scotland, or visit Wales and spend only a short 2 days in Scotland?

Thanks for your help.

Wales would be closer to the Cotswolds....

Once you get to York, you won't need the car there or in Edinburgh, so that might save you money.

You could fly or train back to London .

Why Chester?

From the Cotswolds it would make sense to head for Ludlow and then into mid-Wales, following the A470 to Snowdonia. The alternative drive via the M6 to Chester is quicker, but congested and boring.

I'm afraid I don't know much about Scotland so I can't help in the argument to go there.

Have a look at this recent Trip Advisor thread about things to do and see in North Wales. I think it is quite special though so I'm biased:

http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g186445-i2065-k4562225-Help_needed_fleshing_out_a_4_day_North_Wales_trip-Snowdonia_National_Park_Gwynedd_North_Wales_Wales.html

Thanks for all your help.

To answer your questions:

I've always wanted to visit Wales, but I'm worried that it might be a bit "sleepy" for my partner, who isn't a history buff like I am. Ideally I'd like to see some of Wales - and definitely also Scotland, but our time is such that I'll have to pick one if we want to spend a good amount of time there. I don't want to just "fly" through a city/country to say "I did that". We'd rather stay longer and get the feel of the place.

Why Chester? No particular reason. I just read that it's on the English and Welsh border, and I don't want to drive too much on any particular day, so I thought it might be a good stopover on our way to Wales. But I don't really care if we skip Chester. What do you think?

Thanks for the road advice, I'm definitely writing that down if we decide to go to Wales.

And I agree with swopping York and Edinburgh's number of days, thanks for that.

Scotland can be as "sleepy" as Wales - especially if you are in the middle of nowhere.

I like both countries but have been to Wales more times than I've been to Scotland. There is plenty to see and do - and that's just in Snowdonia and North Wales.

As for Scotland, you could spend weeks exploring it and still not see everything.

Chester is well worth a visit. It's a very lively city, but is small and compact. There are the medieval city walls, the Roman amphitheatre etc etc

Chester is a nice town on the river Dee. In may ways it is similar to York but doesn't get the same pressure of tourists. It is a medieval walled city and there is a nice walk around the walls. The Rows in the centre of the town are unique. The shops are on 2 levels and there is a walkway (accessed by steps) giving access to shops on the first floor level. It also has a nice cathedral.

If you do decide on staying in either LLandudno or Caenarfon, you might be able to tempt him with narrow gauge steam railways...

The Welsh Highland is a newly opened railway which has been rebult on the bed of a line that closed in the 1930s. It runs from Caenarfon o Porthmadog (or some trains to Pont Croesor, a couple of miles short of Porthmadog). It is a superb run along the flanks of Snowden and through Beddgelert and the Pass of Aberglaslyn. Gradients are steep in places and the locos do have to work hard. It has a couple of South African Beyer Garrett locos.

The Ffestiniog Railway is a heritage railway which carried slate from the hills around Blaenau Ffestiniog down to the wharves at Porthmadog. This still uses some of the original steam locos which are 100+ years old. If you are lucky you may be pulled by one of the Ffestiniogs unique double Fairlie locos (basically 2 locos joined by a single cab). The sheer naked power of one of these thundering up the steep gradients with a full load of 12 coaches is incredible.

From Porthmadog, the line crosses the Cob with superb views up to Snowden and then runs through farmland and trees to Ddualt where the line does a spiral. The original line was flooded by a reservoir and the spiral was the only way the line could gain enough height above the reservoir. You go through a tunnel and are out into the wildness of Snowdonia before entering the slate town of Blaenau.

There is information about both railways here:

http://www.festrail.co.uk/

EESW, your knowledge of this area is really impressive.

I reckon I'm going to leave Wales for another time when I'm on my own. The author Sharon Penman hosts tours in Wales every now and then based on her books e.g. Here be Dragons about Llewellyn and Princess Joanna, daughter of King John, so I might enjoy the trip more if I do it in two years' time on my own.

Thanks very much for all the info.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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25 Reasons Why You Should Visit Scotland

August 30, 2023

Have you ever wondered why people are drawn to Scotland, what makes it so special and why you too should visit?

Well, here are the top 25 reasons why visit Scotland at least once in your life! From its thousands of hikes, 30,000+ lochs, amazing food, countless islands, magical Northern Lights, and unbelievably friendly locals, Scotland has a lot to offer to its visitors.

Read on to find out why you should plan your next trip to Scotland!

1. Because You Can Hike Absolutely Everywhere

2. to splish around in more than 30,000 lakes, 3. because everybody is ridiculously friendly, 4. because it’s the 1st harry potter’s fans destinations, 5. to go on the world’s best road trip, 6. for loads more road trips, 7. to visit edinburgh, 8. for the highland games, 9. for getting really remote, 10. to hitch a lift to nowhere, 11. because you can visit endless islands, 12. for dipping into northumberland, 13. to hole up in a bothy, 14. to see the northern lights, 15. for meandering multi-day walks, 16. because it’s ridiculously beautiful, 17. to explore surprising beaches, 18. for the world’s biggest theater festival, 19. to nibble and munch on underrated food, 20. to slurp on irn bru, 21. for hogmanay, 22. because it has some of the world’s best castles, 23. to camp wherever you want, 24. because it has some of the world’s best golf, 25. to wander on a budget, final thoughts, why visit scotland.

I was born in Newcastle, in the north of England, really close to the Scottish border. Because of that, I’ve spent loads of my life in Scotland . I’ve traveled in the country countless times, I’ve got friends who live there, and I’ve hiked and cycled through various parts of the underrated nation.

It’s one of my favorite countries in the world—so in this article, I’m gonna convince you to go. In my desperate attempt, I’ve brought my top reasons to visit, covering mountains, hills, cities, lochs, hitchhiking, festivals, bothies, food and loads more.

(I promise I don’t work for the Scottish tourist board).

Get your kilt on, grab your ginger wig, and sit yourself down for five minutes of tartan-themed temptation. Here are my 25 favorite reasons to visit Scotland …

If you love hiking, you’ll love Scotland.

Every time I travel, I explore as many hikes, hills and peaks as I can. And of all the places I’ve ever been, Scotland is the best for hiking.

For an idea of just how many hikes you can do, have a look at trekking website WalkHighlands , one of my favorite resources for Scottish travel (apart from our site, obviously) . So far, they have more than 2,100 hikes listed, and they’re always adding more. The site gives you a brilliant idea of all the diverse, varied and beautiful hikes the country has to offer.

From those thousands of trails I selected my favorite ones and wrote a ranking/guide about the best hikes in Scotland . You should check it out!

One such area is the Cairngorms National Park, the largest of Scotland’s parks and a hotspot for outdoor adventure sports. There are hundreds of miles of tracks and trails across the park – offering a rich variety of trails that go up, down and around the highest mountain range in the UK.

And, of course, there’s Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK and a real challenge for any experienced hikers.

These are just two of the many hiking possibilities to be found in Scotland. From the rolling hills of Fife to the rugged peaks of Shetland, Scotland has trails to suit all skill levels and interests. To top it off, on a clear day even the most experienced hikers will be struck by the lush landscapes and stunning views.

It sounds like a cliché, but you could probably hike in Scotland for your whole life without getting bored. Some of my favorite areas are Torridon, Assynt and Skye, but there are endless places to rove, wander and walk.

I know this sounds like I’m exaggerating, but I’m not—Scotland genuinely has more than 30,000 lakes.

A quick note, before we move on: when you’re in Scotland, lakes aren’t called lakes. Instead, they’re called ‘lochs’.

Anyway, Loch Ness is the most famous loch in the nation, and it’s the one you’ve probably all heard of. Here’s a fun little fact for you: you could take all water from every lake, river and reservoir in all of England and Wales, add it together, and you’d still have less water than what’s contained in Loch Ness! Read this article for more facts like this about Loch Ness .

And here’s an even funner fact: compared to most of Scotland’s other lochs, Loch Ness is actually pretty terrible. If you don’t believe in Nessy, the Loch Ness monster, then don’t just visit Loch Ness. Some of my favorite lochs include Loch Duich, Loch Carron and Loch Maree. And here is a full list of the best lochs in Scotland that are better than this popular lake.

Spend as much time as you can exploring as many lochs as you can. If you like water, you’ll absolutely love Scotland.

If you can’t make friends in Scotland, there’s something wrong with you.

The more north you go, and the more remote you go, the friendlier people get. But throughout Scotland, people are really sociable, friendly, open and generous.

So make some friends. Find some buddies. Encounter some amigos.

If you’re interested in solo travel, Scotland is one of the world’s best countries to do it. You’ll meet loads of locals and travelers, you’ll never be alone, and you’ll always have someone to chat to.

Scotland has long been known for its rich Celtic culture, stunning scenery and inspiring history. But in recent years, one particular aspect of Scotland’s landscape has attracted an increased amount of attention – its role as a backdrop for the immensely popular Harry Potter films based on J.K. Rowling’s books.

No matter what kind of Harry Potter fan you are – from casual to hardcore – there are some must-see sites, activities, and magical experiences unique to Scotland that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.

One of the major draws for Harry Potter fans is the beautiful Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scottish Highlands, which features prominently in the films. Visitors can either take a boat cruise along Loch Shiel to get the full effect of the bridge, or even simply catch a glimpse of it while taking a ride on the Jacobite Steam train, touted as the “Hogwarts Express”.

JK Rowling also brought the city’s many bits of street art to life in her books, and visitors can now take an interactive tour of some of her favorite spots around town.

The iconic Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is another big draw for Harry Potter fans. While visitors won’t find a real-life version of the building itself, they can still admire the real-life places chosen to represent Hogwarts in the films – Alnwick Castle, Glen coe, etc …

No matter which kind of experience you look for in your Scotland trip, a Harry Potter-themed tour is a great way to make the most of your visit to this beautiful country. From Glenfinnan Viaduct to Rowling-inspired street art, Scotland’s magical connection to the Harry Potter franchise has turned some of the country’s most iconic sights into unforgettable magical experiences.

For more details head over to my detailed articles: 12 Mysterious Harry Potter Locations in Scotland You Should Visit .

The USA has Route 66. Iceland has its ring road. Vietnam has the Ho Chi Minh Trail.

But Scotland has something better than them all: the North Coast 500 . It’s seriously one of the best things I’ve ever done. A 500-mile (800km) road trip in the Scottish Highlands through mountains, lochs, beaches, fishing villages, charming towns and roaming cows, it’s insanely beautiful.

I’ve visited Georgia, Romania, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan for road trips. But Scotland, in terms of scenery, beats them all.

If you only do one thing in Scotland, make it the North Coast 500. Every time you think it can’t get better, it gets better. Most people drive it, some people hitchhike it, and others cycle it. Whatever you do, it’ll be absolutely incredible.

I even wrote a complete guide about it.

The North Coast 500 is Scotland’s most famous road trip.

But there are loads of others you probably haven’t heard of . Some highlights include the South West Coastal 300, the Heart 200 and the North East 250.

On them all, you get to drive past beautiful scenery, charming towns and villages , world-class beaches and much more.

Yeah, I know. What a cliché. But you were thinking it anyway.

And I can’t write an article about reasons to visit Scotland without mentioning Edinburgh .

If you visit Edinburgh, you get to visit one of the most beautiful cities in the UK. A labyrinthine mesh of cobbled streets, ancient buildings, craggy ridges and world-famous sites, it’s massively charming. Just like most tourists, you’ll probably fall in love with it.

But in your pursuit of Edinburgh, don’t ignore the nation’s other cities. Glasgow is obviously brilliant, Inverness is my favorite, and all the other cities have lots of perks too.

One of the very best reasons to come to Scotland is to attend the Highland Games held throughout, which are a unique part of the Scottish culture.

The Highland Games has been a popular part of Scotland for centuries and is a truly unique experience for visitors to the country. It is a mixture of sports and cultural activities that take place every year in Scotland, from Inverness to Edinburgh, as well as other small towns.

The games are usually held during the summer months and feature traditional Scottish events, such as caber tossing, weight and hammer throwing, cycling, running and Highland dancing. These events date back to the 5th century and were important social events for the clans of Scotland and a way to display strength and agility in a fun and exciting atmosphere.

The Highland Games are a great way for visitors to experience traditional Scottish culture, as well as witness some incredible feats of strength and endurance. It’s a unique opportunity to watch traditional Scottish sports, partake in activities, or simply cheer from the sidelines.

There’s also plenty of entertainment, music and traditional fair to keep visitors entertained throughout.

The Highland Games is an authentic and amazing cultural experience that shouldn’t be missed. It’s an exciting and immersive event where visitors can witness traditional sports and activities that have been around for centuries, as well as spending time with locals who can share their knowledge and culture.

Whether you are interested in the sports on offer or simply want to come and watch a traditional event, the Highland Games are definitely one of the best reasons to visit Scotland.

If you like traveling to the middle of nowhere, go to Scotland.

Now I know what you’re thinking. You’re thinking that Scotland is famous and developed and it’s got an iconic capital city so it can’t possibly be as remote as I’m telling you it is.

But you’re wrong—some settlements have populations of less than 50 people.

I’ve hitchhiked around Scotland loads of times. And in some places, I’ve stood for an hour without seeing a single car. If you like being in the middle of nowhere, and enjoying proper peace and isolation, you’ll find it in Scotland.

No, hitchhiking isn’t scary. Not everyone in the world is trying to kill you, so get over yourself.

If you’ve never hitchhiked before, Scotland is a brilliant place to get started—I reckon it’s the best country in western Europe to do it.

Everyone speaks English, everyone is friendly, and it’s pretty much always more reliable than public transport (especially the more remote you go). In Scotland, you’ll realize why hitchhiking is brilliant, and why it’s the best way to explore the country. If Scotland is the first place you hitchhike, it won’t be the last.

Scotland isn’t quite Indonesia, but it has nearly 800 islands.

Visiting them is brilliant. Some offer remote experiences on uninhabited shores. Others have excellent beaches. Some have orcas, puffins, otters, eagles and sharks.

Others have brilliant hikes. Some are only accessible by ferry. A small few have ancient neolithic sites. Most of them have cute little fishing villages.

So there’s loads of stuff to enjoy on all of Scotland’s islands. But more importantly, you get to visit some of the most alluring, endearing places you’ve probably ever visited.

Just south of Scotland is Northumberland , the most northerly county in England.

Because I’m from Northumberland, I’m probably (definitely) biased, but I think it’s the most beautiful part of England. Hugely remote, you can hike, swim, surf, cycle and explore endless stretches of nothing.

If you want further outdoor adventures outside of Scotland, you’ll find them in Northumberland —and the area is ridiculously easy to access from its northern neighbor.

Scotland’s bothies are some of the nation’s most unique features.

Charity-operated shacks in the middle of Scotland’s wildest landscapes, they’re rudimentary cabins designed for overnight stays during long hiking trips and other outdoor adventures.

So if you want to enjoy some proper wilderness, Scotland’s bothies can help. You can safely explore some of the nation’s most remote spots without worrying about where you’ll need to sleep. And best of all, you don’t even need to pay.

Here’s my complete about Bothies in Scotland .

Everyone wants to see the Northern Lights. You, me, your friends, our grandmothers.

Even people who’ve already seen the Northern Lights probably want to see the Northern Lights.

Most people flock to Norway, Sweden and Iceland to see the iconic illuminations. But not many people know that you can see the Northern Lights in Scotland. Surprisingly, the region is on the same latitude as Norway’s city of Stavanger, one of the world’s most famous light-spotting locations.

If you go to the right places at the right time, Scotland can give you a taste of one of the world’s most famous sights.

Hiking is fun. But multi-day walks are where the adventure’s really at.

Scotland has loads of multi-day jaunts and journeys. And if you’ve never been on a multi-day walk before, Scotland is a great place to start. The infrastructure is brilliant, most walks are well-waymarked, and you’ll meet lots of other hikers along the way.

In short, Scotland lets you enjoy multi-day walks simply, easily and accessibly.

The most famous is the West Highland Way . But beyond that, the Rob Roy Way , the Cape Wrath Trail and the Arran Coastal Path are all equally excellent.

I feel like I’ve already covered this in my other reasons. But it’s impossible to articulate how beautiful Scotland really is.

If you want to see one of the most beautiful countries in the world, head to Scotland. It’s hugely diverse, so whether you like looking at peaks, passes, valleys, mountains, forests, beaches or whatever else, you can see plenty of it in Scotland.

If you visit Scotland, you get to see some of the most incredible sights on the planet.

I know the idea of nice beaches in Scotland sounds made-up.

But I promise I’m not making it up—on the west coast, the north coast, and loads of the islands, you’ll find lots of beautiful beaches.

One of the best things about Scotland’s beaches is how quiet, remote and peaceful they are. If you go to Benidorm or the Greek islands or whatever, the beaches are beautiful but busy. But in Scotland, you can enjoy equally-attractive beaches, but with hardly any people.

If you like exploring quiet beaches with incredible views, you can do loads of it in Scotland.

Every August, Edinburgh hosts the Fringe Festival

The biggest arts festival in the world, it’s a massively unique event.

Over a jam-packed three weeks, the city plays host to around 4,000 shows (no, that’s not a typo). Some stuff is theater, some stuff is comedy, all of it’s varied.

If you like theater, comedy, stand-up shows, live entertainment, music, street performers or any similar stuff, you’ll absolutely love the Fringe Festival.

It’s diverse, unique and alluring, and it absolutely dominates the city for its three-week duration. You’ll get to see some of the most unique, unusual and affordable theater you’ve ever seen, and you’ll get to enjoy one of the world’s most exciting events.

Scotland isn’t all haggis and deep-fried Mars Bars.

(Although, admittedly, you will find loads of them both—and they are both tasty).

In Scotland, you can eat lots of great stuff. Go to the coast, and get brilliant seafood, lobster and cullen skink. Go to the cities for hugely-underrated (and surprisingly affordable) world cuisine. Go to the islands for hyper-local produce.

Throughout Scotland, there are loads of tasty meals and morsels to chow down on. It’s an excellent under-the-radar gem for any food fanatics.

No, I haven’t spelled that wrong (but in case you’re wondering, it’s pronounced “iron brew”).

Irn Bru is the unofficial national drink of Scotland. And you’ve never tasted anything like it.

Bright-orange, fizzy and sweet, no-one can really work out what Irn Bru tastes like. Some reckon it tastes like ginger. Others think it tastes like citrus fruit. Some reckon it tastes like bubblegum.

So there’s only one way to find out what it really tastes like—go to Scotland and swig some of the stuff for yourself. You’ll get to taste an iconic drink, and you’ll get to endlessly speculate on its flavor.

You probably have no idea what ‘Hogmanay’ means.

A weird old word, it’s the Scottish term for New Years. Totally exciting and unique, Hogmanay is one of the country’s biggest celebrations. If you like massive events and late-night parties, you’ll absolutely love it.

Edinburgh and Glasgow are the best places to celebrate Hogmanay. In both cities, you’ll find good food, good drinks, smiling faces and endless fireworks.

If you attend a Hogmanay, you’ll make loads of friends and enjoy one of the best parties you’ve ever experienced. But more than that, you’ll get a brilliant insight into one of the oldest and most celebrated Scottish traditions—if you like learning about (and experiencing) real local life, you’ll love it.

Scotland is home to more than 1,500 castles, depending on who you ask.

If you’re interested in heritage, history, and age-old architecture, there are plenty of places to explore. The Scottish castles range from sprawling complexes to tiny turrets to huge ruins, and they’re a great insight into Scotland’s past.

Some of the most famous are Edinburgh Castle, Braemar Castle, and Dunnottar Castle.

Another popular castle is Urquhart Castle which is situated atop a rocky hill overlooking Loch Ness and has been part of some famous battles, making it a true symbol of Scotland’s rich history.

Stirling Castle is also a famous and vast fortress, built on a rocky crag and entirely dominating the surrounding area. Having played a key role in the Wars of Independence and being connected to many famous figures from Scotland’s past, it’s an unmistakable part of Scotland’s past.

But my favorite (and lots of people’s favorite) is Eilean Donan. Perched right on the waters of Loch Duich, it’s one of the most photographable castles on the planet. But because loads of Scotland’s castles are in beautiful locations, they’re a photographer’s dream. So fire up that Instagram.

Scotland is a wild-camper’s paradise.

Apart from a small few places (and in people’s gardens), you can roam and camp wherever you want in Scotland. You don’t need a permit, you don’t need permission, and you don’t need to plan.

Instead, you can just spontaneously pitch up your tent wherever you like, and make a little home for the night.

If you like spontaneity, freedom and traveling without plans, Scotland is a brilliant place to visit.

They even have a law about about it: The Right to Roam .

Apart from mini golf and one go on a driving range, I’ve never played golf in my life.

So I don’t really know anything about the sport.

But what I do know is that Scotland’s golf courses are world-famous. So if you’re a fan, head to the nation for some of the best rounds you’ve probably ever played.

The Old Course in St. Andrews is probably the most famous course in the world, but other great Scottish courses include the ones at Royal Dornoch Golf Club and Carnoustie Golf Links. The country has almost 600 courses in total, so there’s plenty to choose from.

In Scotland, you get great courses, great facilities and great equipment.

Scotland can be a surprisingly good place to travel cheaply.

Like I’ve already said, you can camp (almost) anywhere and you can hitchhike everywhere. And on top of that, campsites and accommodations are a little cheaper than you probably expect, buses are very affordable, and the country has loads of excellent hostels.

For western European standards, you can easily travel in Scotland without spending too much money. So if you’re looking for a cheap trip, get yourself there!

Thanks for reading our guide to the top reasons to visit Scotland.

If you want to know anything else about traveling in the nation, we have lots of articles here on our site. For much more, wander over to our guides on the top reasons to visit the Isle of Arran , the best coastal walks in Scotland , things you shouldn’t do in Scotland , and things you shouldn’t say to Scottish people .

We also have articles on mountains, traditions, cliffs , clothes , heather , money , and plenty more. Whatever you want to know about Scotland, you’ll find it right here!

Related Article: Top Reasons to Visit the UK

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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England or Scotland? Which country should you visit next?

Because sometimes you just need a little help deciding…

Lush landscapes, vibrant cities, and history thousands of years in the making – all this and more await you on an adventure in either England or Scotland but how do you choose between the two? While you could flip a coin (if you’re feeling extra spontaneous), we’ve decided to put together a guide comparing these two picturesque and excitement-filled destinations so you can spend less time googling and more time planning the holiday of your dreams.

Best for landscapes

You might instantly think that Scotland has this category in the bag but once you journey past England’s historic, royal family-filled cities you’ll soon come to learn that this country has some of the most mesmerising landscapes in all of the United Kingdom.

There’s the spectacular Jurassic Coast region (located in Dorset) with its unusual rock formations and hidden coastal areas. Or the famous Lake District where literary giants such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter found inspiration among its glittering lakes, deep valleys, and forests full of wildlife and native greenery. And you simply can’t go past the Peak District with its dramatic and diverse countryside featuring views you’re not going to see anywhere else. And that’s a fact.

EXPLORE THE PEAK DISTRICT ON OUR WALKING TOUR

When considering whether Scotland’s landscapes are better than England’s, there’s another ‘L’ word you need to think about it – Lochs. You can’t go anywhere in Scotland without encountering a loch or two (there are roughly 30,000 scattered all over the country), and once you catch a glimpse of their sparkling surfaces and scenic surroundings, you’ll be thankful for it.

From the famous Loch Ness with its mythical monster and great depth to the remote Loch Awe with its ancient castle from the 15th century, these magnificent bodies of water are quintessentially Scotland and deserve to be admired and explored.

You might think that’s where Scotland’s natural beauty ends, but this country’s Mother Nature-made wonders run deeper than that with landscapes such as the Scottish Highlands , Eoligarry Beach, Cairngorms National Park , and the Isle of Skye captivating both travellers and creatives for centuries. One thing’s for certain, you won’t be able to put your camera down.

RELATED: 7 MUST-SEE CASTLES IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Best for cuisine

Your stomach is spoilt for choice when it comes to food in England and after all that exploring, you’re going to need as much sustenance as you can get. Filled with classic pubs and trendy restaurants bursting with dishes such as steak and kidney pie, traditional Sunday roast with your choice of meat, potatoes, other vegetables and of course a Yorkshire pudding, and good ol’ fish and chips, England’s cuisine is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

RELATED: ENGLAND OR IRELAND?

There aren’t a lot of things that you can guarantee when travelling but not going hungry in Scotland is one of them thanks to their large and delicious range of national dishes offered at every pub or restaurant you come across – and thank goodness because exploring the country’s landscapes is famishing work.

Whether you want to try out a plate of haggis (traditionally made from heart, liver, lungs, and onions and then wrapped inside a pig’s stomach), bite into a buttery shortbread biscuit with your afternoon cup of tea, or snack on a sweet scone or two with lots of clotted cream, Scotland’s food offerings will undoubtedly have you coming back for seconds, and then possibly thirds.

But of course, you can’t have a meal without washing it down with a drink and what better way to immerse yourself within Scotland’s culture than sipping on a glass of the amber liquid it’s famous for – whisky. Stretching all the way back to the 11th century, whisky is now synonymous with Scottish identity hence why it’s pretty much impossible to travel to Scotland and not try it out, especially since there are over 100 distilleries scatted around the country.  

SIP ON SOME WHISKY ON OUR HIGHLIGHTS OF SCOTLAND TOUR

Best for cities

While London is the city that most of us automatically think of when it comes to England’s concrete jungles, there are actually a ton of other cities worth visiting, each with its own history and allure. From Cambridge and Oxford with their prestigious universities and photo-ready landscapes to Manchester with its electric vibe and captivating architecture, there is plenty to choose from if you’re looking to add an urban element to your English adventure.

One of the more famous cities to visit (outside of London) is the spectacular city of Bristol. Founded in 1155, this city is bursting with historic landmarks (after hundreds of years you’d expect nothing less), cultural spaces such as museums and theatres, and a thriving foodie culture that’s guaranteed to please even the toughest of tastebuds.

Whether you want to spend your time wandering around the Old City or shop for local, fresh produce at St Nicholas Market, you’re bound to find something to do that’ll please the whole family.

EMBARK ON OUR WALK THE COTSWOLDS TOUR

One of the best things about Scotland is that its cities are just as beautiful as its natural landscapes so no matter where you travel, you’re bound to be captivated by something.

There’s Edinburgh with its enchanting architecture and epic views. Glasgow with its modern vibe and legendary music scene. Inverness with its mythical monsters and proximity to the Scottish Highlands. And Stirling with its ancient castles and historical sites. You simply can’t go wrong.

RELATED: HOW TO SPEND 72 HOURS IN EDINBURGH

Best for history

It makes sense that a country over 800,000 years old has a lot of history and luckily for all of the history buffs out there, you can go pretty much anywhere in England and stumble upon a historical site or two. From the puzzling mystery surrounding Stonehenge and why it was built to Hadrian’s Wall with its dramatic Roman ruins and sensational scenery, there are plenty of ancient spots to inspire your imagination and keep your mind occupied.

JOIN OUR WALK THE HADRIAN’S WAlL HIGHLIGHTS TOUR

Scotland’s history dates back to a time before anyone even thought to write stuff down so you’d be right in thinking there are hundreds and hundreds of historical attractions scattered throughout the country simply waiting for you to visit.

Whether you want to wander the ruins of prehistoric settlements, marvel at towering stone pillars, admire ancient abbeys, or let your imagination run wild at medieval battlegrounds, destinations such as the Orkney Islands , the Shetland Islands , Edinburgh, and the Isle of Lewis (among others) should definitely be added to your Scottish itinerary – and afterwards, to your holiday highlight reel.

RELATED: SCOTLAND OR IRELAND?

The verdict

It’s hard to decide which country is better so we understand why you’re reading this blog instead of trying to figure it out for yourself. England arguably beats Scotland when it comes to visiting historical sites (you just can’t top Stonehenge) but Scotland has extraordinary landscapes you could easily spend months wandering around. England has the cities, but Scotland has the cuisine.

Both countries offer fascinating attractions and promise unforgettable memories so you can’t go wrong with either of them. It might be a cop-out, but this decision is too close to call. 

VISIT EITHER ENGLAND OR SCOTLAND ON OUR UNITED KINGDOM TOURS

Feeling inspired?

Kate Gazzard

When I was 11, my parents asked me whether I wanted a pool for the house or a trip to Fiji. I chose Fiji, and I've made travelling as much as I can a priority ever since.

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Best Time to Visit Scotland: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Home » Blog » Europe » United Kingdom » Best Time to Visit Scotland: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Scotland makes a great place to travel for jaw-dropping scenery, interesting history and a lively, welcoming culture. We put together this overview to help you determine the best time to visit Scotland and what you can expect during each season.

Best known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history, Scotland is a world-renowned travel destination, and yet still somehow a bit mysterious. An ideal destination for nature lovers, history buffs, fans of amazing architecture, whiskey enthusiasts and foodies alike, there are many, many reasons to visit Scotland.  

While it often gets overshadowed by neighboring countries from a tourism standpoint, Scotland is one place you should have on your bucket list! Plan your trip around touring medieval castles, explore the famous Scottish Highlands, or stick to the cities and sample the local whiskey culture. 

Still, there are certain times of year you’ll want to plan your trip around (and some you’ll want to avoid!) in order to have the best experience. Let’s get right into it and break down the best time to visit Scotland and what you can expect during your trip. 

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

The best time to visit Scotland overall is during the spring and fall, just outside of peak tourism season (summer) and when the weather is most pleasant. 

Both summer and winter have plenty to offer as well. So the best time to visit for you largely depends on what you want to see and do. 

Answer these questions to get started:

• Will you be visiting the Highlands or spending all your time in the city?
• Are you easily bothered by crowds?
• Do you mind a little rain?
• Do you prefer to spend your time outdoors in nature or exploring a new city?
• What is your budget for visiting Scotland?

Thinking about your answers to these questions is going to help you start to determine when to visit Scotland.

Trying to decide whether to visit Ireland or Scotland? You’re not alone! We’ve done both, and we have a whole guide where we compare the two and give our personal recommendation on the Scotland vs. Ireland debate.

Article contents

Our experience, scotland geography overview, weather in scotland, summer in scotland, fall in scotland, winter in scotland, spring in scotland.

• What to pack for Scotland

Overall BEST time to visit Scotland

Want a quick recommendation? Jump down to see our personal advice for the best time to visit Scotland. Plus, we’ll share what times of year we’d avoid visiting!

• Our Recommendation…

Psst! If you have time to discover more of the country, don’t miss these epic places to visit in Scotland .

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We traveled in Scotland for about 2 weeks and were able to visit lots of the highlights of the country, including most of the top places to visit.

We took our 2-week travels and created the perfect Scotland road trip itinerary.  We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  2-week Scotland road trip itinerary  today!

We visited Scotland in September

When: early to late September (2022)

Our experience:

• We had some rain, but not a ton . Overall, we had great weather (considering it’s Scotand, and you should expect some rain no matter when you travel).
• Before our trip, I read miserable stories of midges (especially in the Isle of Skye), but we got lucky and didn’t notice any of these pesky bugs, as it seems they tend to die out in September.
• We coincidentally happened to be in Edinburgh for Queen Elizabeth’s funeral procession, so that day was very busy, but otherwise, we didn’t feel things were too crowded.
• Being that it was the end of peak tourism season when we arrived (just after Labor Day weekend), things weren’t crazy busy, but seasonal places were still open. It was the best of both worlds!
• Even though most things didn’t seem crowded , we were turned away at more than one campground where we hadn’t made reservations. (Lots of Scots camping!) We’d recommend planning your campgrounds and booking them at least a few days in advance (or further ahead if you’re traveling in the summer).

Would we recommend visiting Scotland in September? 

Yes! We had good weather overall, and didn’t have peak season (or Fringe Festival) crowds, making it a great month for a campervan trip.

Scotland may be fairly small, but there’s no shortage of geographical diversity. The country spans across the northern one-third of Great Britain and includes nearly 800 islands, only 130 of which are inhabited! 

Scotland can be divided into three distinct regions: the northern Highlands, the southern Uplands, and the central Lowlands. 

The Highlands in the north are made up of rugged yet still lush mountainous topography that form some of the most picturesque landscapes in the world. This vast area, including the islands off the northern coast, encompasses about half of Scotland’s total land mass. 

Sapphire blue lochs (lakes) and narrow inlets dot the landscape, adding stunning character to the rugged peaks, glacier-carved valleys, and tiny islands. The Scottish Highlands are truly wild; it’s one of the least densely populated areas in all of Europe! 

The central Lowlands are home to both fertile farmland and almost all of Scotland’s larger cities. In fact, nearly 90% of the country’s population resides in the Lowlands. Both the capital city of Edinburgh and the largest city, Glasgow, are located here, along with several others.  

The rugged southern Uplands form Scotland’s 110-mile-long border with England. This area is primarily rural and agricultural, defined by picture-perfect gently rolling green hills. 

Scotland gets a bit of a bad rap when it comes to weather. While it does rain often (there’s a reason it’s so green!), the overall weather just might surprise you.

The weather in Scotland never really hits the extremes you’ll find in many other destinations (particularly in Europe). While you very well may experience all four seasons in the span of just a few hours (packing layers is key!), the heat is mild and the cold is usually bearable. Even in the height of summer, it rarely exceeds 80°F (27°C)  in most Scotland cities. 

Summer and winter in Scotland bring the most rainfall, while the spring and fall are surprisingly the driest seasons.  

Something unique to consider when you’re deciding on the best time to visit Scotland is daylight hours. Due to Scotland’s far northern latitude, summer days have up to 18 hours of daylight, but in the winter, that number drops to just seven or eight. 

Below you’ll find a break down of the average temps and rainfall in Scotland by month:

• Avg. Daily Temp: 44°F / 7°C 
• Typical Rainfall: 5.8 inches
• Daylight: 8 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 45°F / 7°C
• Typical Rainfall: 4.1 inches
• Daylight: 10 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 49°F / 9°C
• Typical Rainfall: 4.4 inches
• Daylight: 12 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 55°F / 13°C
• Typical Rainfall: 2.5 inches
• Daylight: 14 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 61°F / 16°C
• Typical Rainfall: 2.7 inches
• Daylight: 16 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 65°F / 18°C
• Typical Rainfall: 2.6 inches
• Daylight: 18 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 68°F / 20°C
• Typical Rainfall: 2.9 inches
• Daylight: 17 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 67°F / 19°C
• Typical Rainfall: 3.6 inches
• Daylight: 15 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 62°F / 17°C
• Daylight: 13 hours
• Typical Rainfall: 5.6 inches
• Typical Rainfall: 5.0 inches
• Avg. Daily Temp: 44°F / 7°C
• Typical Rainfall: 5.3 inches
• Daylight: 7 hours

Psst! Plan your trip with our round up of all the best things to do in Edinburgh , including the quintessential activities and some off the beaten path experiences you won’t want to miss!

Summer is definitely the high season in Scotland. Warmer temperatures bring lots of people out, both visitors and locals alike, hoping to take advantage of the warmer weather, longer days, and many fun things to do. 

Temperatures average in the upper 60s and low 70s (19-23°C) during the summer months throughout most of the country, with the exception of the Highlands and other high-elevation areas. 

The sun also rises as early as 3:00 or 4:00 a.m. (remember, Scotland is waaaaay up there!) in the summer and often doesn’t set until 11:00 p.m. Keep in mind these long, warmer days also coincide with one of the country’s wettest seasons — it may be warm and sunny, but also pouring rain!

In addition to warm weather, many consider summer the best time to visit Scotland because of all the festivals and events. In August, Edinburgh plays host to the Fringe Festival , the largest arts festival in the world! 

Best places to visit during summer in Scotland

• Edinburgh for festivals, buzzy nightlife, and tons of Medieval history
• Glasgow makes a great summertime basecamp for experiencing a little of everything Scotland has to offer, with a location close to both the coast and the Highlands
• Head to Outer Hebrides for the beaches
• Chase epic outdoor adventures in Isle of Skye and the Highlands
• St. Andrews to play a round of golf at one of the most iconic courses in the world
• Stirling offers a great mix of the Lowlands and Highlands culture

Best things to do during summer in Scotland

• Check out The Fringe Festival, held over multiple weeks in August
• Get a unique perspective of Scotland’s rugged coast with a guided sea kayaking tour (fun fact: Scotland is home to 10% of Europe’s entire coastline!)
• Scotland is the birthplace of golf, so experience the sport in its true element by playing a round of golf at one of the country’s 550+ courses!
• Explore the many stunning lochs. Who knows, maybe you’ll be lucky enough to spot the real-life Nessie!
• Catch some very traditional (and very unique!) sports at the famous Highland Games. Events are held throughout the country from May through August.

Fall in Scotland brings a drop in both temperatures and the number of tourists. There are still plenty of activities to do and places to explore before the last of the warm weather says goodbye for winter, so fall is one of the best times to visit Scotland. 

You’ll see temperatures around the low 60s (16-18°C) throughout most of fall, so it’s a perfect time to get outside and enjoy this country’s spectacular nature. 

In late October, the days start to become noticeably shorter, with 10-13 hours of daily sunlight. While those are still nice long days, it gets a little easier to keep a normal sleep schedule without losing out on any exploration time. 

As the temperatures drop, the fall foliage begins to put on an impressive show, creating a photographers’ paradise — especially in the Highlands. The grass on the Moors gradually begins to fade to red and the trees come alive with shades of yellow, red, and orange. 

Scotland sees quite a bit of rain (and wind!) during the fall, particularly in October and November, but that also means the many amazing waterfalls are at their peak flow. And cooler temperatures also mercifully drive away the infamous midges and other biting insects that tend to swarm during the warmer months. 

Important Note: One thing to be aware of when visiting Scotland in the fall is that many popular tourist attractions shut down for the winter season in early November. 

Best places to visit during fall in Scotland

• The Highlands for unforgettable leaf-peeping in the most dramatic setting
• Edinburgh’s many museums and historical sites have notably fewer crowds in the fall
• Eat your way through Glasgow, one of the best cities for traditional Scottish comfort meals
• Glencoe National Nature Reserve shows off some of the most stunning Scottish nature
• Explore Aberdeenshire for the countless castles and history sans crowds

Best things to do during fall in Scotland

• Check out one of several literary festivals that take place around the country. One of the biggest, the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, takes place in October, but there are many other niche festivals as well. 
• Hike to some waterfalls and enjoy the fall foliage. Some of the best and most accessible include Black Linn Falls, Falls of Foyers near famous Loch Ness, and Loup of Fintry. 
• Try out kitesurfing on the east coast
• Explore Scotland’s more than 1,500 castles
• Create your own Harry Potter-themed adventure, exploring several of the locations that inspired the books and movies. 

Winter in Scotland is the low season for tourism, but don’t let that dissuade you from visiting. If anything, it could be a reason to visit. You’ll find less-crowded attractions, cheaper accommodations, unique winter wonderland experiences, and surprisingly mild weather. 

Temperatures are definitely a little colder, but not unbearable by any means—usually between 35-45ºF (1-7ºC) in the cities and lower elevation areas. Scotland does experience a rainy winter, but again, the temperatures are mild enough that it’s manageable. It’s not freezing rain like you’re probably imagining (usually, anyway!). 

Daylight hours are short in Scotland during winter, with just 7-8 hours of daily sunlight. While this can make it feel like you’re racing against time to cram everything in, the shorter days offer more time to enjoy the night sky, plus potentially even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. 

Unique winter experiences make it one of the best times to visit Scotland for those who enjoy getting off the beaten path. There are opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, the traditional holiday markets are not to be missed, and in our opinion, winter is the best, liveliest time to explore Scotland’s cities. 

Best places to visit during winter in Scotland

• Edinburgh, for winter festivals and many (free!) museums
• Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow, for family-friendly attractions, the impressive botanical garden, and the country’s best shopping
• Cairngorms National Park, home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Scotland
• Road-trip to Highland Perthshire (one of the most underrated areas of Scotland!) for postcard-worthy scenery, several easy hikes, and charming Victorian towns
• Galloway Forest Park for top-notch stargazing and hopefully, the Northern Lights!

Best things to do during winter in Scotland

• Experience the magic of traditional European Christmas markets and winter festivals. Glasgow and Edinburgh both host amazing ones, and Edinburgh’s is one of the largest in the UK! 
• Celebrate St. Andrews Day with the locals. This annual holiday honors the Patron Saint of Scotland with mega celebrations of all things Scottish.
• Brave the cold late at night to stargaze and try to spot the Northern Lights when the sky is clear. 
• Keep yourself warm by sampling some of the finest Scotch (Scottish whiskey) at a distillery
• Hit the slopes at Cairngorm National Park for some skiing or snowboarding
• Make a stop to visit and interact with the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, a free-roaming herd of about 150 animals
• When you need rainy-day activities, enjoy the museums (many of which are totally free!) in the major cities without any crowds

Spring is somewhat similar to fall in terms of weather and crowds, making it what some consider the best time to visit Scotland. As winter fades and the warmer weather of spring emerges, the snow begins to melt, animals poke their heads out, and the countryside greens up and comes alive again. 

The weather changes rapidly over the course of spring in Scotland. In March, temperatures generally hover in the 40s and low 50s (4-15ºC), but by May, upper 70s (23+ºC) aren’t uncommon! 

Although rare, surprise spring snow storms do sneak in occasionally, so pack and dress accordingly, prepared for a bit of fresh powder. Interestingly, and unlike many other destinations, spring is one of Scotland’s driest seasons. 

The warmer temperatures and smaller crowds make spring a great time to explore while also saving on accommodations. Many seasonal businesses that close for winter reopen in late March or early April, which coincides perfectly with the days starting to get longer. 

Spring is also fantastic for road-tripping through Scotland . Don’t miss the iconic North Coast 500, a 516-mile drive that takes you through stunning landscapes and charming, quaint European villages. Everywhere you go, the hillsides will likely be blanketed in colorful daffodils and cherry blossoms!

April and May also bring several whiskey festivals to regions across the country. In fact, May is National Whisky Month in Scotland (whisky is a BIG deal here — Scots refer to it as the “water of life”). 

Kind of like “when in Rome…” When in Scotland, drink as the Scots do!

Best places to visit during spring in Scotland

• The city of Inverness, where the North Coast 500 begins
• Enjoy some unreal wildlife in the Shetland Isles
• Glasgow and Edinburgh have notably smaller crowds than during the peak months
• Experience the wonder of the cherry blossom bloom in Edinburgh
• The north coast Scottish isles, where you can experience dolphin- and whale-watching

Best things to do during spring in Scotland

• Catch the cherry blossom bloom in Edinburgh and wildflower season across the entire country by simply walking around or driving without a destination!
• Explore the country’s many castles and ruins
• Visit the botanical gardens in either Glasgow or Edinburgh to experience the gorgeous spring bloom
• Try out (or watch!) kitesurfing on the eastern coast
• Take a hike! Summit Ben Nevis in the Highlands, the highest mountain in all of the UK, or explore some shorter waterfall trails.
• Go island-hopping near Skye, the Outer Hebrides, or Shetland

Best time to visit Scotland in our opinion…

In our opinion, the best time to visit Scotland is during the spring or fall, with a few exceptions. 

Spring and fall, Scotland’s “shoulder seasons,” both have moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. Accommodations are slightly cheaper compared to summer and the swarms of midges are much less prevalent. 

In terms of weather, Scotland never gets either super hot or super cold (with the exception of the Highlands, of course), so most activities are available year-round. Spring and fall offer the opportunity for a more affordable trip with fewer crowds, but with access to many of the same experiences. 

Summer may be the best time to visit Scotland if you’re after the warmest months or want to experience one of the many outdoor festivals like The Fringe Festival in Edinburgh.  However, we’d avoid visiting Scotland during the month of August if you are not planning to attend the Fringe Festival as accommodation will be booked well in advance and prices sky-rocket!

Lastly, there are plenty of compelling reasons to visit Scotland in the winter. Clear skies provide jaw-droppingly beautiful views of the night sky and perhaps even a glimpse of the Northern Lights, and there’s truly nothing like European Christmas markets!

Overall, we recommend visiting in May or September for your trip to Scotland, so you’ll have the best chance for warmer, drier weather and fewer crowds. But keep in mind that there is truly plenty to enjoy year-round in this stunning, welcoming country.

What to pack for your trip to Scotland

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.

In this free Scotland packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing check lists for everything from clothing and toiletries to electronics and extra gear you may consider packing if you plan to do some campervan travels.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in Scotland that you won’t find anywhere else!

Are you planning a trip to Scotland?

We have lots of resources on travel in Scotland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Scotland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Best Places to Visit in Scotland
• Best Campervan Hire in Scotland
• Insanely Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh
• Scotland Camping: Essential Tips + Best Campsites

Save this article on Pinterest for later!

We want to hear from you!

Have you ever been to Scotland before? During what season did you visit and what was your experience like? Comment below and let us know!

Comments (2) on “ Best Time to Visit Scotland: When to Go & When to Avoid! ”

Well, the summer weather in 2023 isn’t quite so peachy as previous years (old fogeys like me might prefer the cooler, damper climate!) But you can still have a brilliant time exploring. We are particularly fond of Crinan which is a wee gem of a place. That gives us a good reason to have something to eat at the George Hotel, Inveraray on our way home.

We also love going to Dumfries House in Cumnock; we’ve taken quite a few visitors there now. I think the King (when still the Prince of Wales) was inspired to make a great resource for an area of Scotland which might not otherwise have attracted tourists. The house is amazing, the gardens spacious and well tended (it’s worth paying to go into the walled garden too) and we enjoy watching the arboretum starting to grow.

South west Scotland (well, I’m from Castle Douglas!) – is quite a different landscape to the Highlands. Also recommended as a great place to visit.

Can you tell I’m just itching to get exploring again!

Absolutely fantastic resource that you have created. We were there last 2 weeks of Aug, first two weeks of Sept this year. People said we had better than normal weather. We did a circle tour in a rented car (Arnold Clark) and used Airbnb. We used Tesco SIM cards which are cheaper than Airalo. We did last 2 weeks in Aug because the kids are back in school then. We have already booked the same dates for next year as we want to do all of the Outer Hebrides (we only did Lewis this year.) and more of the coast between Inverness and Aberdeen. Keep up the Great work! Thanks

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11 Reasons Why You Should Visit Scotland In 2024

Where else can you be part of a world championship, experience 900 years of history and top it all off with a glass of authentic Scottish whisky? 

This country has so much to offer, but here are some of our top reasons to visit Scotland in 2024. 

Start the year off with a bang Across Scotland

Northern Lights over the Old Man of Storr

© Airborne Lens / Liam Anderstrem

Scotland is a great place to visit any time of year, but there’s something quite magical about crisp winter days and starry nights. We’re well-known for our Hogmanay celebrations, so why not ring in the new year with epic fireworks, spectacular light displays and world-renowned fire festivals? But it doesn’t stop there! The darker nights provide the perfect backdrop for stargazing and even the chance to see the Northern Lights. Here are just a few highlights to add a bit of light to those darker months: 

• Hogmanay – celebrate like a local and join in our New Year celebrations 
• Up Helly Aa – connect with Viking history at Shetland’s annual fire festivals, running from January to March
• Hebridean Dark Sky Festival – soak up the wonder of the night sky on the islands  
• Dark sky parks and stargazing – winter in Scotland is the best time for stargazing 
• Northern Lights – will you be lucky enough to see this elusive phenomenon? 

Delve into our epic history Across Scotland

Statue of Robert The Bruce outside Marischal College

2024 marks the 750th anniversary of the birth of Robert the Bruce, one of Scotland’s most famous rulers. The king who fought for Scottish independence in the 14th century travelled all over the country, so there are plenty of spots to connect with his story and continued influence in this landmark year. Make sure to add some of these to your list! 

• Stirling – discover the history of Stirling Castle and the nearby site of the Battle of Bannockburn, a landmark battle in Robert the Bruce’s campaign. It’s also the 900th anniversary of the Royal Borough of Stirling in 2024, so there’s no better time to visit. 
• Dunfermline Abbey – this stunning abbey is also the site where Robert the Bruce is buried, along with other significant Scottish monarchs from history. 
• Melrose Abbey  – Melrose Abbey in the Scottish Borders is supposed to be where Robert the Bruce's heart is interred.
• Arbroath Abbey – take a trip to the coast to see the atmospheric abbey ruins where the famous Declaration of Arbroath was drawn up. 

Visit Scotland's top destinations Across Scotland

Duncansby Head

If you’re looking for places to visit in Scotland, the north Highlands isn’t a bad place to start. With rugged landscapes and engaging history, it’s no surprise that Caithness and Sutherland have been listed in Lonely Planet’s Top Destinations of 2024 . The vast region makes up the northern Highlands area of Scotland, where there are plenty of signs of its Viking heritage, unique wildlife and stunning Flow Country. The Flow Country is in the running to become the UK’s next natural UNESCO World Heritage site, so there’s no better time to visit and find out more about the vital role it plays in our defense against the effects of climate change.  

Another must-visit destination to add to your list is Galloway and Southern Ayrshire who were recently named by National Geographic on their Cool List for 2024 as one of the most exciting places to visit in 2024. It is home to Scotland's first UNESCO Biosphere reserve and has been granted 10 years of protection by the organisation. 

Indulge in a wee tipple Across Scotland

The Port of Leith distillery

This year is set to be the best yet to sample some of our most famous spirits! Complete your holiday to Scotland in 2024 with a trip to a distillery:  

• Port of Leith Distillery – situated in Leith, one of Edinburgh’s coolest neighbourhoods, this vertical distillery has some pretty unbeatable views across the Firth of Forth.  
• Rosebank Distillery – this Falkirk-based whisky distillery is ideal for those looking for a luxury, authentic experience.  
• Portintruan Distillery – part of the Elixir family of distillers, their latest distillery is due to open on Islay’s south coast in 2024. 
• Eden Mill Distillery   – the St Andrews-based distillers will be opening their new premises overlooking the estuary and St Andrews skyline. 
• Harris Distillery – famous for delicious gin and their glass-blown bottles, Harris Distillery has launched their highly anticipated whisky, The Hearach.  
• Drumbane Distillery  – this brand-new whisky distillery in Callander will offer guided tastings and the chance to meet master distillers.

Experience world class events Across Scotland

Royal Troon Golf Course

© Ayrshire and Arran Tourism Group

This year is going to be packed with events taking place across the country, including the  World Athletics Indoor Championships in Glasgow . There are very few tickets left for the event so make sure to book now to avoid disappointment! Other big events in Scotland this year include:

• National Cyclo-cross Championships – Callendar Park in Falkirk is hosting a weekend of cycling taking place in January, the first time they've ever been hosted in Scotland! 
• World Irish Dance Championships – yes, you read that right. Scotland is hosting the World Irish Dance Championships in 2024, they’ll be taking place at the SEC in Glasgow in March. 
• The 152nd Open, Royal Troon – visit this historic course as it hosts its 10th Open in July. 
• Sprint World Orienteering Championships – grab your compass and head through to Edinburgh in July for this programme of exciting orienteering events. 
• Clipper Round the World Yacht Race – for the first time in its history, the Clipper Race will stop in Scotland in July during its 2024 edition, in Oban. 
• The AIG Women’s Open – enjoy the Women’s Open taking place in St Andrews in August.

Celebrate Disney’s 100th year with a magical visit Across Scotland

Craigievar Castle

Disney celebrates its 100th year in 2024, but did you know there are plenty of Disney connections in Scotland? Most famous is the pastel pink Craigievar Castle , which reopens in 2024 and is thought to be the inspiration for the iconic Disney castle. 

Although it’s animated, Disney’s Brave features many real-life Scottish locations, from Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeenshire to the Calanais Standing Stones in the Hebrides.  

Immerse yourself in Scottish culture Across Scotland

Perth Museum - The Home of the Stone of Destiny

© Greg Holmes

We’re well-known for our fascinating history, so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of newly refurbished museums and galleries reopening to the public this year to add to your list:

• Perth Museum – now open after a huge redevelopment of the historic Perth City Hall. It's now the new home of the Stone of Destiny.
• Scottish Crannog Centre - this authentically recreated Iron Age roudhouse on the shores of Loch Tay is open. Book tickets now.
• Scottish National Gallery – the refurbished Scottish Wing of the Scottish National Gallery in Edinburgh is free to visit and reopened at the end of 2023.
• Paisley Museum – after a £45 million investment, Paisley Museum is a world-class museum space, featuring the famous Paisley textiles. 
• Kilmartin Museum – recently reopened, explore the museum which is packed full of ancient artefacts from burial sites close by. 
• Citizens Theatre Glasgow – work is underway to transform this iconic Victorian building in the Gorbals area of Glasgow this year.  
• Ruthwell Savings Bank Museum – the site of the world’s first saving bank will reopen to visitors in Dumfries & Galloway in 2024.

Dine in style at our latest Michelin star restaurants Across Scotland

Timberyard restaurant

© @timberyard10

Scotland was awarded not one, but two new Michelin star restaurants in 2023, which should be on any foodie’s list to try: 

• Timberyard – nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, Timberyard is run by Head Chef Jimmy Murray and is the perfect spot for those looking for exceptional dining in stylish but cosy surroundings. 
• Heron – based in Leith, the team at Heron showcase Scotland’s best natural produce in a Scandi-inspired environment.  

These are just the latest to receive a Michelin star – we're lucky to have Michelin restaurants across the country so make sure you check out the full list. 

Make a splash with an on-the-water experience Across Scotland

Canoeing under Yair Bridge

© Marc Marshall Photography

Scottish landscapes feature unspoiled coastlines, fresh rivers and rich sealife, so why not plan a water-based experience when you visit? There are some incredible new facilities and trails to try in 2024: 

• Lost Shore Surf Resort – come and visit Europe’s largest inland surfing destination when it opens in September 2024! Based just outside of Edinburgh, it will be capable of generating up to 1,000 waves per hour and be set within a country park with luxury accommodation, food, shopping and even a wellness spa.  
• Isle of Arran Snorkel Trail – see Scotland like never before with this award-winning snorkel trail for your chance to spot anything from sponges and anemones to dolphins and whales!  
• Tweed Valley Canoe Trail - launching in spring 2024, the first official canoe trail in the south of Scotland covers a 30-mile stretch of the majestic River Tweed. 

Coorie up with a luxury stay Across Scotland

A cosy wood burning stove in a contemporary Scottish home

© VisitScotland / Iona Spence

Start 2024 as you mean to go on, by slowing down to soak up some of Scotland’s finest luxury hotels. One of Scotland’s most famous hotels, The Gleneagles in Perthshire, is celebrating its 100th anniversary, but there are also some new kids on the block to try:

• Dornoch Station – part of the Marine and Lawn chain, this old hotel has been tastefully restored. It’s the ideal spot for fans of golf, only a few steps away from the Royal Dornoch Golf Club. 
• Harestone Moss Treehouse – escape the everyday with this luxury hideaway in the Aberdeenshire countryside. Complete with fire pits, underfloor heating and hot tubs (of course), it’s a great example of eco luxury. 
• 100 Princes Street – due to open in 2024, be amongst the first to savour this boutique hotel full of character in the centre of Edinburgh.  
• The Address – this design-driven hotel in the heart of Glasgow opened at the end of 2023. Its great location and townhouse façade are matched with craft dining, using sustainable, local produce. 

Get on your bike! Across Scotland

Cyclists on the Forth Road Bridge

Keep active this year with some stunning cycling trails across Scotland. It’s a really unique way to explore the country and our engaging landscapes. 

• Round the Forth – this long-distance cycling route is launching in January 2024, just in time to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Forth Road Bridge! 
• Hoy on Hoy Cycling Route – launched by Sir Chris Hoy to celebrate the reopening of the Scapa Flow Museum, take in the sites on this route across the island of Hoy in Orkney. It is part of a collection of 12 new routes across Orkney's islands launched in 2023.
• Kirkpatrick C2C – this coast-to-coast route was inspired by the creator of the first pedal-driven bicycle! Cycle across the stunning countryside of the south of Scotland, from Stranraer on the west coast to Eyemouth in the east.  

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How to Plan the Perfect Scotland Vacation

From fairy-tale castles to charming small towns, the Scottish countryside is every bit as spectacular as you've heard.

Best Times to Go to Scotland

Best things to do in scotland.

• Getting to the Scottish Highlands

Where to Stay in Scotland

With its stately castles , glass-like lochs, and voluptuous glens, Scotland has always been a showstopper. The country's magic extends from its quaint small towns to the snow-capped peaks of its romantic, rugged Highlands to its dynamic modern cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh. It's home to some of the best national parks in the U.K. and more than 900 offshore islands with extraordinary wildlife like regal red stags, majestic golden eagles, humpback whales, and massive salmon (not to mention the fabled inhabitant of Loch Ness, too).

The raw, poetic beauty of this ancient land — formerly known as Caledonia — is difficult to overstate. If you're hoping to head to the U.K.'s ravishing northern nation, read on for our guide to planning the perfect Scotland vacation.

The bad news is that, like the rest of the U.K., Scotland's weather is far from reliable, even at the height of summer. But as long as you're prepared to accept that and pack a raincoat for the odd shower or two, then you'll be fine from May to September. The smart money is on visiting in June and the first two weeks of July, when Scotland basks in seemingly endless summer evenings (the sun doesn't set until 11 p.m. in some parts of the Highlands) and the British school holidays have not yet begun, so prices remain low.

For winter travelers, Scotland has the U.K.'s best ski resort at Cairngorm Mountain , while the capital, Edinburgh, hosts one of the world's biggest New Year's Eve parties, Hogmanay .

If you like the great outdoors, you'll love Scotland. It's an ideal place for hiking, biking, and generally embracing the wildly beautiful landscape. You can summit magnificent Ben Nevis in a day (the tallest mountain in the U.K., at 4,413 feet), take a ferry out to explore the Hebrides archipelago and its stunning white-sand beaches, tour scores of castles, including the Queen's favorite holiday home, Balmoral (open to the public every April through July), and dive into a quirky food scene encompassing dishes like haggis (an offal and oatmeal combo, which tastes significantly better than it sounds), deep-fried mars bars, and juicy scallops, langoustines, and mussels.

Scotland is also a mecca for both golfers ( St. Andrews Old Course is the headline act) and whisky lovers , with some of the world's best distilleries available to tour, including Johnnie Walker on Edinburgh's lively Princes Street, Glenlivet near pretty Ballindalloch, and the legendary Macallan on a sprawling country estate in nearby Aberlour.

If you enjoy driving, you'll find some of the U.K.'s emptiest, most dramatic roads here, too, (as driven by James Bond in "Skyfall"), including the latest official addition, the North Coast 500 , an action-packed 500-mile route (516 to be exact) featuring mind-boggling coastal scenery, jaw-dropping beaches, rolling hillside, quaint fishing villages, and multiple hidden gems.

And if you prefer your challenges on foot, check out the magnificent West Highland Way , the country's best-loved long-distance walking route. Snaking its way from Milngavie to Fort William, it covers some of Scotland's finest scenery over 96 miles and is normally completed from south to north.

Meanwhile, history buffs will also be agog on any visit to Scotland, thanks to its 3,000-plus castles ( Castle Sween in Argyll is the oldest, dating back to the 1100s), as well as plenty to check out in the winding wynds (narrow lanes) and twisted staircases of Edinburgh's enchanting Old Town. ( Edinburgh Castle , towering over the city, is arguably the grandest in the country, too.)

If you can, make time to visit Perth, the former Scottish capital where kings were crowned on the Stone of Destiny and infamous Glen Coe, a beautiful valley full of waterfalls and deer, also known for the brutal clan massacre of 1692 (which inspired the Red Wedding in George R. R. Martin's Game of Thrones ).

Where are the Scottish Highlands — and what is the best way to get there?

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

The clue is in its name: the Highlands are the mountainous upper half of Scotland, covering 10,000 square miles of picturesque scenery. The region's lively capital is Inverness , which sits centrally and is a superb base from which to explore, while other highlights include mysterious, misty Loch Ness, majestic Cairngorms National Park , and idyllic Isle of Skye , which has been connected to the mainland via a road bridge since 1995.

The easiest way to reach the Highlands is to fly into Inverness Airport from London or elsewhere in the U.K., or rent a car and drive from Glasgow or Edinburgh. However, the way to arrive in style is on the Caledonian Sleeper train from London Euston, a chugging time machine where you can fall asleep to the sounds of black cabs and bustle of the British capital and wake up among the red deer and magical glens of the Highlands. Regularly nominated as one of the world's best train journeys , the scenery gets truly spectacular after Fort William, as the route skirts a dramatic chain of lochs before descending into lush glens and crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous by the Harry Potter films. For the ultimate Hogwarts experience, steam locomotives work this route during the summer months, so check in advance for these special departures.

The major cities have an abundance of hotels for every budget, headlined by Glasgow's Kimpton Blythswood Square , a boutique property in the former headquarters of the Royal Scottish Automobile Club, and The Dunstane Houses in Edinburgh, a pair of beautifully renovated 19th-century townhouses.

Scotland arguably does traditional country house hotels and rustic lodges better than anywhere else in the world, with Fife Arms in Braemar and Gleneagles in Perthshire being particular treats (the latter, nicknamed the "Glorious Playground" boasts three championship golf courses, its own dedicated train station, and the only restaurant in the country with two Michelin stars).

Scotland is, of course, peppered with castles, and many have been converted into hotels and B&Bs in recent years, with some of the better fortified accommodation options including Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire, Inverlochy Castle in Fort William, Atholl Palace Hotel in Pitlochry, and Stonefield Castle Hotel on Loch Fyne.

Wherever you stay, you'll get a warm welcome — not to mention a hot bowl of Scottish porridge or a plate of bacon, eggs, and haggis to start the day in a spectacularly scenic country.

9 Differences You Should Know Between Scotland and Wales

Scotland and Wales are two different regions, included in the United Kingdom. For outsiders, it may be challenging to remember their locations and differences in culture. That’s why, I’m writing this article, in a few minutes you’ll know everything you need to know to never confuse them anymore.

Except their location and size, Scotland and Wales have different cultures. For example, they both have a second language (Welsh and Scottish), and like different kind of foods. Their politic ideology is also different, for example Scotland voted against the Brexit while Wales supported it.

Obviously, this is just a summary of the main differences you’ll find detailed in the following of this article. Keep reading if you want to learn more about these nations.

Wales and Scotland Location

One of the easiest differences to recognize is the location where Scotland and Wales are located. Both are nations, which join with England and Northern Island to form the United Kingdom. But they are geographically separate.

Scotland sits above England on the island of Great Britain. It takes up the bulk of the top half of the landmass. Wales sits lower, lying to the left of England. Both of these will have smaller islands on the outskirts, which are included as part of their nation.

Related : 7 differences between Wales and Ireland

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• Differences between Hardcover and Paperback
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Wales vs Scotland: Different Sizes

One of the most immediately noticeable differences between Scotland and Wales is their size differences. Geographically, Scotland is larger. It covers 30,420 sq miles. On the other hand, Wales will only cover 8,023 sq miles.

There are a few other size differences between the two:

• Number of Islands. Scotland has access to more coastline than Wales. It has 787 islands, though most of them aren’t inhabited. On the other hand, Wales has 50 islands.
• Population. Being the larger landmass, Scotland also has more people. It boasts a population of 5.454 million. On the other hand, Wales has a population of 3.1 million people, which is around four percent of the total population in the UK .

Interestingly, Wales is frequently used by those in the media to highlight the size of an object or demonstrate the scale of a problem. For example, a charity called the “Size of Wales” made it their mission to protect an area the size of Wales from deforestation. This is often used to help people get a better understanding of scale, which is easier to do when compared to something we can visualize.

Main Cities in Wales and Scotland

Each of these places has some impressive cities. Scotland is best known for the capital, Edinburgh . This is home to over half a million people. It is also home to Glasgow, where 600,000 people live. Both of these are known for mixing history and contemporary living. For example, some parts of Scotland have been protected by UNESCO because of their historical importance.

The other cities in Scotland are:

The Welsh also has some iconic cities. The biggest is the capital, Cardiff. This is located by the water and has its own set of historical monuments, like a 2,000-year-old castle. But it is smaller than the cities in Scotland, holding over 350,000 people. Some of the other cities in Wales are:

Culture Differences between Wales and Scotland

One of the areas where the starkest differences can be exposed is when comparing the cultures in Wales and Scotland. Let’s look at some of the most important aspects of the culture in these areas.

Languages Spoken

In both of these nations, the primary language is English. But they each have a language of their own. In Wales, the people will speak Welsh. There are around 500,000 people who speak Welsh.

Interestingly, the Welsh language has become known globally for its long place names.  In particular, Llanfairpwll-gwyngyllgogerychwyrndrob-wllllantysiliogogogoch. At 58 letters, it’s the longest place name in the UK.

On the other hand, people in Scotland will speak Scottish. According to census records, around 1.5 million Scots report being able to speak the language. It was likely adapted from Northern English around the beginning of the 14 th Century.

However, both of these languages are losing their popularity. Younger people are less likely to want to learn them. Because of this, some people are even reporting that these languages might die out in the coming years.

National Emblems

Both Scotland and Wales have emblems that represent their countries. In Wales, this is most likely to be a red dragon. This is depicted on the Welsh flag. Likely, this was first introduced to the country by the Romans. The Welsh king started to use this symbol to celebrate the Romans leaving .

Interestingly, it was also mentioned in Arthurian legends. In these tales, a red dragon would fight a white dragon. This is believed to symbolize the unease between England and Wales. There are a few other symbols that are commonly associated with Wales , including:

• Leek. It’s believed that King Cadwaladr asked his soldiers to pin a leek to their uniforms during the 7 th Century. This made it easier to tell them apart from their rivals.
• Daffodil. This rose to popularity as a national symbol in the 19 th Century. This was intended to replace the leek.
• Lovespoons. This is part of the Welsh courtship ritual. The male would present a handcrafted spoon to a woman he was interested in. This showed that he was skilled and dedicated. These have become popular tourist purchases.

Scotland has a wide range of national symbols, many of them stemming from Celtic roots. There are two Scottish flags. The first is a white X on a blue background. This is the official flag of Scotland. It’s believed that the iconic shape comes from Saint Andrew .

He was one of the apostles, who was scheduled to be killed by the Romans. However, he said that he wasn’t worthy of the T-shaped cross that was used to kill Jesus Christ. So, he was killed on the saltine-style cross. His remains were later buried in Scotland.

A popular legend tells of Óengus II in 832 A.D. who was leading the army of Picts and Scots. Saint Andrew appeared to him in a dream and assured him that they would win. On the day of the battle, a large X cloud formation appeared over the battlefield. This gave his troops the encouragement they needed to win.

The second, unofficial, flag of Scotland depicts a red lion. It’s believed that the lion motif stretches back to King William I, who was often likened to a lion.  This later became associated with the Scottish coat of arms. This is a common sight at sporting events.

Some of the symbols that are commonly linked to Scotland include :

• Tartan. This type of material is used to make kilts, which are synonymous with Scottish culture.
• Unicorns. This symbol even appeared on gold coins during the 15 th Century. It was chosen because the unicorn could not be conquered, like the Scottish who always value their freedom.
• Thistle. This can be seen on the Royal Coat of Arms. According to legend, a Norse warrior once stepped barefoot onto thistle and his screams alerted the Scots to an incoming invasion.

Each of these nations has its own type of food. In Scotland, here are some of the foods that they are known for :

• Haggis. This is the national dish of Scotland.
• Deep-fried Mars bars

On the other hand, here are the biggest foods in Wales :

• Lamb or Beef Stew

Both of these countries have produced some famous literary icons over the years. Some of the biggest names from Scotland include :

• Sir Walter Scott
• Jenni Fagan
• Douglas Stuart

The Welsh have also produced several exceptional authors over the years. Some of the most well-known people are:

• Phillip Pullman
• Craig Thomas
• Henry Jones
• Phillip Burton
• Dylan Thomas

Finally, there are some significant differences in the politics between Scotland and Wales. One of the biggest is the emphasis placed on independence and freedom. This is an integral part of the Scottish way of life.  There have been many clashes with British rule, including notable historic figures like William Wallace.

This strong support for freedom continues to this day. The Scottish plan is to have a vote on independence by 2023 . However, according to opinion polls, support for independence within Wales sits around 23 percent .

This has sometimes led to tension within the UK. For example, Wales voters opted to support Brexit, while Scotland decided to remain. This led the leader of Scotland to claim they were being removed from the EU against her country’s consent . 

I am very curious and I love to learn about all types of subjects. Thanks to my experience on the web, I share my discoveries with you on this site :)

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The perfect scotland and ireland itinerary.

Trips to Ireland and Scotland are some of my favorites to help plan. Both countries are some of my favorites and they can be easily combined. This Scotland and Ireland itinerary will help you plan the best trip!

This post contains affiliate links.

• Should I go to Scotland or Ireland?

I often get asked by my readers which trip they should take, Ireland or Scotland? While both destinations are amazing and beautiful with so much to offer, and I always try to help them make the right choice for their needs, I don’t think this has to be an either-or choice. If you’re really struggling with the Ireland vs Scotland debate, why not choose both? When you use this itinerary to travel to Ireland and Scotland you’re getting the best of both worlds within two weeks.

Here's a Short Cut

Best Time to Visit Ireland and Scotland

Fly between scotland and ireland, ferry from ireland to scotland, ireland and scotland tours, ireland scotland map, scotland and ireland itinerary, day 1: arrive in dublin, day 2: explore dublin, day 3 & 4: take an overnight trip to the west of ireland, day 5: wicklow mountains, day 6 & 7: northern ireland and back to dublin, days 1-2: explore edinburgh , day 3: scottish highlands, days 4-6: isle of skye, day 7: depart from edinburgh.

The best time to visit Ireland and Scotland is usually off-peak in shoulder season between April-May and September-October. If you go to Ireland and Scotland during these times you’ll avoid the crowds, but still be able to enjoy nicer weather than in the winter.

Getting Between Scotland and Ireland

Trips to Ireland and Scotland offer the best of both worlds and can be done affordably too. Getting from Ireland to Scotland is easy and affordable. There are many companies that offer Ireland and Scotland tours that are great, or you can choose to take the trip on your own.

There are plenty of cheap flights from Ireland to Scotland and from Scotland to Ireland. You can fly with Ryanair for as little as $21 USD! Honestly, that’s cheaper than the cost of a nice dinner! So if you really are having a hard time deciding between Ireland and Scotland, go ahead and do both!

Learn how to find cheap flights to and from Ireland and Scotland by reading my   guide to flying for cheap or nearly free here.

If you have your own car or are using this itinerary as part of a larger European trip, you might also consider taking the ferry from Ireland to Scotland or vice versa. This would also work if you’re planning to fly in and out of the same airport. However, if you are flying into Scotland or Ireland and plan to fly out of a different airport, I would not recommend taking the ferry. Especially since flights between Scotland and Ireland are so cheap! If you do decide to go for a rental car in one country and leave it in the other, it will cost you at least $1500 USD ($500 for a cross border fee and $500 for a one-way rental fee). And then you have the cost of the ferry on top of that which is a few hundred dollars. While sailing across the North Chanel is truly beautiful, It’s not worth the expense if you will be renting a car.

Visiting Ireland and Scotland can seem a little daunting on your own and tours can be a great way to go if you’re feeling a little nervous about it. These are some great Ireland and Scotland tours that will help you get a great overview of these two destinations:

This interactive map should help you plan your Ireland and Scotland itinerary. You can click on each destination to find more information.

I outline a great Ireland and Scotland itinerary below, but if you want to skip all the planning and simply use this downloadable, printable, detailed itinerary , you can find it here.

Get the Full Itinerary I’m giving you a detailed day-by-day Ireland and Scotland itinerary. You can do this itinerary in any order you wish, but this seemed the most logical to me. This itinerary begins in Ireland and ends in Scotland, where you can choose to fly home from, or simply fly back to Ireland for a round trip ticket. The choice is yours. I recommend flying in and out of wherever you can   get the best deals .  I generally find Ireland cheaper to fly to from the United States but have occasionally found great deals to Scotland as well.

Ireland could literally take you years to explore! So if you’re planning a trip to Ireland , I’m giving you just a week in this itinerary of things to do in Ireland , but I think it will show you some of the best places to visit in Ireland in a short amount of time. If you’re interested in a longer, more detailed trip to Ireland, you can check out my full  Ireland Itinerary. 

For the first day of your Scotland and Ireland vacation, arrive in Dublin airport and adjust to the time change. Dublin is Ireland’s capital city, so you’re sure to visit places while you’re here. Keep yourself awake until a reasonable hour (between 8 pm and 11 pm) and wake up early the next morning.

Now that you’re hopefully feeling well-rested and not too jet-lagged, it’s time to explore the capital of the Republic of Ireland. Don’t miss these stops in Dublin:

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Dublin Castle
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Trinity College Library
• St. Stephens Green
• Lunch at Avoca Wool Shop & Cafe
• Little Museum of London
• Take a   Bus Tour   of Dublin
• Howth Cliffs
• Phoenix Park

Take an entire day to explore the west of Ireland. If you’re self-driving it will take about 3.5 hours to get to the west coast known as the Wild Atlantic Way. If you’re feeling nervous about driving in Ireland there are several great day trips from Galway that will take you to the west for this 2-day trip.  This amazing tour   explores the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and Killarney National Park, with an overnight stay in Dingle.

Don’t miss these stops on your trip to the West:

• Killarney National Park (learn more about   Killarney   here.)
• Muckross House & Traditional Farm
• Muckross Abbey
• Killarney Town
• Cliffs of Moher
• Blarney Castle

Spend a day in the beautiful County Wicklow. Be sure not to miss these:

• Powerscourt Estate: Dating back over 200 years, these are some of the most beautiful gardens in all of Ireland
• Glendalough: Beautiful lakes surrounded by stunning mountains!
• Silver Strand Beach: A beautiful and secluded beach
• Wicklow Gaol: This old jail is a great place to learn some interesting and sad Irish history.
• Wicklow Town: Adorable Irish town

Spend two days in beautiful Northern Ireland! You can take the three-hour drive yourself or take  this great two-day tour   that will take you to all the best sites. Be sure not to miss these:

• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
• Giant’s Causeway
• Dark Hedges

In between your exploration, make sure you also visit the city center and get to experience local dishes and listen to traditional Irish music while you’re in town!

Now that you’ve enjoyed a full week in Ireland, it’s time to hop over the Irish Channel and visit the beautiful and rugged Scotland! Most flights will take you into Edinburgh where you can either rent a car or spend a few days in the city then do some tours in the highlands. If you want to experience a great overview of the country, you can do my full  Scotland Itinerary.

I normally like to advise people to get out of the big cities and explore the countryside, but Edinburgh has so much to offer that I think it’s worth spending at least 2 days here. You can learn about what to do in Edinburgh in  my detailed guide here,   but be sure not to miss these top spots:

• Edinburgh Castle
• Holyrood Palace
• The Royal Mile
• St. Gile’s Cathedral
• Scott Monument
• Grass Market
• Princes Street Gardens
• Take a    Harry Potter Walking Tour
• Visit the Elephant House Cafe where JK Rowling ate
• Victoria Street
• Hike Arthur’s Seat
• Calton Hill
• Cairngorms National Park

If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in a castle, be sure to check out these awesome castle hotels in Scotland.

Spend day 4 exploring the highlands of Scotland. Visit Inverness and try and find the Loch Ness Monster! You can drive here or take   this easy day tour from Edinburgh.   Be sure to read my   guide to the highlands   and don’t miss these sites:

• Urquhart Castle
• Fort William

You can’t visit Scotland without taking a trip to visit the breathtakingly beautiful Isle of Skye. It’s rugged beauty and history combined with its rugged island charm is sure to win your heart! Driving to the Isle of Skye can be a little scary if you don’t know what to expect. The roads are one lane so you must share the road with oncoming traffic. If you’re not comfortable driving in those conditions, it might be a good idea to take a tour to the Isle of Skye.

Rabbie’s does an amazing 3-day tour that comes with your own comedic  kilted tour guide to take you through the Isle of Skye while learning all about its interesting past and natural wonders. You can find the  tour here. 

Be sure to read   my complete guide to the Isle of Skye   before going.

Whether you decide to drive to the Isle of Skye on your own or take a tour, don’t miss these sites:

• The Quiraing 
• Old Man of Storr
• Neist Point
• Dunvegan Castle
• Fairy Pools
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Museum of Island Life & Flora MacDonald’s Grave

On the last day of your Scotland and Ireland vacation, travel back to Edinburgh and either fly home from there or fly back to Dublin to fly home.

I hope this itinerary will help plan many trips to Ireland and Scotland. They are both such amazing destinations and I know you’ll love them! If you need help planning, please feel free to reach out  Facebook   or  Instagram , or send me an email me  [email protected]

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Scotland or Ireland: Which Country Should You Visit?

Last Updated on November 21, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

There are few countries throughout the world that inspire so much awe and splendour than Scotland or Ireland. They both boast incredible expanses of green scenery, beautiful nature, rugged coastlines, ancient archaeological sites, and famously friendly locals.

However, they are two distinct places with cultures and traditions all their own. Therefore, if you only have time to visit one of these amazing countries, it can be difficult to choose between Scotland and Ireland.

Both countries have innumerable things to offer travellers and one could easily spend months and months wandering around both of them. But which is the right destination for you?

In general, choose Scotland if you want countless archaeological sites, myriad islands to explore and a well-established walking and camping culture. On the other hand, choose Ireland if you’re interested in great food, recent history and bucolic landscapes.

This article will outline the pros and cons of visiting Ireland and Scotland including things like affordability, activities, and attractions in order to help you pick the best country for your particular travel style.

Table of Contents

Scotland has become more and more popular each year, drawing tourists with its outstanding culture in cities like Edinburgh, mythical natural sites like Loch Ness , rugged islands like Skye and Orkney, and one of the best road trips in the world in the form of the North Coast 500 .

This beautiful country has so much to offer travellers of all kinds and, despite its relatively small size and population, keeps drawing people back year after year.

Accessibility

One of the first things you need to consider when attempting to choose between Ireland and Scotland is how accessible the destination is. Luckily for travellers, Scotland is an incredibly easy nation to get to and a fairly straightforward one to get around.

The largest airport in Scotland is located in its capital of Edinburgh. It serves countless destinations internationally and it makes an easy and convenient starting point for a Scotland trip . There are also smaller airports in Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness that have connections across the UK and continental Europe.

The major cities in Scotland are all well-connected within the UK’s extensive bus and train network, with frequent connections between London and the larger cities of Edinburgh, Glasgow , and Inverness.

It is also a fantastic option to begin your Scotland trip in London and explore the thriving capital city before catching one of the most scenic train rides in the world up north. Just make sure to book it in advance if you want to get a cheaper fare!

If your time frame or Scottish travel budget doesn’t allow for a long-distance train journey through the British countryside, there are airports in all of the bigger cities in Scotland that offer affordable flights from across the UK and the rest of Europe.

When it comes to getting around Scotland, this is where the beautiful country might get marked down a few points. Outside of the city centres in places like Edinburgh and Glasgow , it can be fairly tricky to get around if you’re planning on relying solely on public transport.

As Scotland is the most sparsely populated country in the UK, bus and train links aren’t nearly as developed or frequent as they are in England and, if you want to get off the beaten path even a little bit, the easiest way by far to do this is to rent a car .

If you can’t rent a car and still want to see the incredible scenery and highlights of Scotland, it is very possible to book a day or multi-day tour of more rural areas that are difficult to reach without a personal vehicle.

Affordability

It may come as no surprise that, due to its location in the UK, Scotland isn’t easily considered a budget destination. However, it is possible to visit Scotland and not leave having to take out a second mortgage on your home. Meaning, Scotland doesn’t have to be an expensive destination. 

While there are certainly ample opportunities throughout Scotland that will have you spending all of your hard-earned cash in one fell swoop, there are just as many chances to save your money and still have an amazing experience.

For instance, if you have a sense of adventure and love the great outdoors, it is perfectly legal to wild camp most everywhere in Scotland.

If you travel with your own tent, you can sleep for free and seriously offset any accommodation costs you may have otherwise accrued. There are also plenty of amazing private rentals you can rent like this stunning cottage on Skye!

Also, while the price of meals in restaurants might be fairly expensive, grocery prices aren’t that steep and it can help save money to cook your own meals.

Another wonderful thing about Scotland is that most attractions that require entry fees (and very few actually do) rarely cost more than about £10-15. Most museums in the bigger cities are also free to enter, as they are in the majority of the UK.

All in all, Scotland can be quite affordable to visit if you do some research into your travel costs in advance and spend your money wisely.

Things to Do

Though small in size, Scotland is a gorgeous country with an incredible array of wonderful things to do. In cities, there are ample cultural events and fascinating museums with which to occupy your time.

Throughout both cities and the countryside, there are hundreds of whisky distilleries making some of the finest single-malt whisky in the world, most of which are available for tours and tastings.

The countryside is packed with walking routes and outdoor sporting opportunities. You can do anything from an easy day hike to a weeks-long trek through the Scottish wilderness in this beautiful country.

Read More: Dublin or Edinburgh: Which City to Visit?

The natural scenery in this country is incredibly beautiful and diverse and in one day, you can be scaling up Ben Nevis before seeing dolphins frolicking in the waters off the coast of Ullapool.

There are subarctic plateaus that have a completely different ecosystem to anywhere else in the British Isles and there are beautiful white sand beaches that will make you feel as if you’re in the tropics. Scotland’s nature truly cannot be beaten.

Both Scotland’s mainland and thousands of offshore islands are home to ancient and historical sites that range from grand medieval castles to majestic standing stones. Gazing upon such sites can make one feel incredibly small and truly make you appreciate just how old Scotland is.

There are so many things to do in Scotland in so many different corners of this amazing country that travellers could easily spend months on end exploring the country and still leave longing to see more. The interesting sites, breathtaking nature, and incredibly friendly people will leave you always coming back for more.

So, if you’re trying to decide whether to visit Scotland or Ireland, those are just some of the merits of the former.

Ireland is a country that continually inspires awe in those wishing to visit and the Emerald Isle has a lot to offer visitors. Much like its neighbour, Ireland is blessed with some of the most beautiful, pastoral scenery in the region and has one of the best and most renowned pub cultures in the world.

Littered with an amazing, long history, fascinating sites and nature, and some of the most friendly and helpful locals in the world, deciding whether to visit Ireland or Scotland can become an incredibly tricky choice.

The Republic of Ireland is quite a small country, both in population and in land area, and it is likely that you will fly into the capital of Dublin, which is the highest-traffic airport in the country.

Dublin airport is massive and has many flight connections to many destinations in North America and Europe. It is also conveniently located not far from the city centre so it isn’t difficult to access if you are planning on visiting the city without a car.

There are a few other airports throughout the country that you can access from airports across Europe and the UK and even the US, but it is unlikely that you will fly into one of them if you are arriving to Ireland from outside of this geographic area.

Once in Ireland, you will find it to be similar to Scotland insofar as that it can be difficult to get around if you don’t have your own personal vehicle outside of the bigger cities. In city centres like Dublin , Cork , and Galway , it is quite easy to get around by foot and if you’re only planning on visiting these cities on your Ireland itinerary , then it can be possible to go on the trip without a car.

However, if you want to get to more rural areas or are interested in stepping slightly off the beaten path, then renting a car is often your best option .

If you don’t drive or otherwise can’t rent a car, there are a number of tours available , like in Scotland, that will allow you to visit sites that are hard to reach by public transport. These typically leave from major cities like Dublin or Galway and can last for one day or multiple days.

Now that we’ve covered the accessibility of Ireland, it is time to cover, briefly, how much an Ireland trip will cost . Much like Scotland, Ireland has a reputation as being an expensive country and, depending on where you visit, this very well might be the case.

Dublin, for instance, is one of the most expensive cities in Europe and everything from accommodation costs to food costs to beer costs can seem wildly inflated. Varying activities in the Irish capital can come with an expensive price tag and there are times where it might seem that it is impossible to visit this iconic city on a budget.

If you are savvy about where you spend your money, however, you will find that you can make it stretch further than you might think. In Dublin, for instance, opt for a free walking tour rather than a paid one (do remember to tip your guide, though!). Don’t go out drinking in the Temple Bar district, where the price of a pint can exceed €8.

Everywhere in both the Republic and Northern Ireland, keep an eye out for state-run museums, which, like in Scotland, are often free. Not only will you certainly gain a better appreciation and understanding of the many fascinating aspects of Irish history, but you will also save yourself some money.

As for accommodation, opt for a private one like this restored barn in Connemara , a bed in a locally run B&B, or even a plot on a campground. Wild camping is not legal in Ireland like it is in Scotland, however, you can still find many ways to save on your accommodation costs.

If you’re weighing in on the things to do in each country, your choice might not become easier when you realise just how much there is to do in Ireland.

While the diversity of the natural scenery might not be quite as stunning around every corner in Ireland, there is still no denying that it is absolutely gorgeous.

Planning a trip to Ireland with the sole goal of spending as much time outside in the country as possible is very much worth it. The rolling green hills, the bucolic farms, and the rugged coastline are all the perfect draws to this beautiful and wild country.

Despite its diminutive population, there are numerous fun and dynamic cities to explore in Ireland as well. Dublin might take the cake when it comes to size and renown, however, cities like Cork are considered to be the gastronomic heart of Ireland and historic Galway just begs itself to be explored.

When it comes to natural sites, you can’t beat the beauty of the Cliffs of Moher , Achill Island , the Burren, or the impeccable Connemara peninsula. Ireland’s entire Wild Atlantic Way along the country’s west coast draws some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country and is considered to be one of the best road trips in the world.

In Northern Ireland , you have gritty and historic cities like Belfast and Derry to explore. Not only that but the incredible Antrim Coast and the inimitable Giant’s Causeway are unmissable attractions.

If you’re interested in hikes and walks, there is no shortage of amazing trails of various lengths you could go on. Though there aren’t the plentiful mountains that you will find in Scotland, Ireland’s countryside boasts its own unique beauty of rolling hills and daring cliffsides.

Irish history spans millennia and, just like in Scotland, you can see ancient sites and centuries-old churches and imposing castles and manors scattered throughout the Emerald Isle. There are also myriad museums in almost every settlement that will allow you to learn more about the history of this small but mighty nation.

Ireland is a country that is firmly cemented on the tourist trail for a reason: there are seemingly infinite things to do in such a small island nation.

Scotland vs Ireland: The Verdict

So should you visit Scotland or Ireland? Sometimes, it can seem as if there isn’t much difference between and it can be incredibly difficult to choose between the two. If you only have time to visit one, here is what we suggest.

If you’re interested in seeing the most diverse natural scenery in the shortest time span, choose Scotland. While Ireland’s nature is incredibly beautiful, Scotland’s is just slightly more stunning and more varied. As mentioned earlier, you can be at the top of the tallest peak in Britain in the morning and enjoying the seaside on a remote island off the coast by the evening.

Scotland might also be the best choice for you if you’re interested in ancient archaeological sites. Areas like the Orkney Islands and the Isle of Lewis and Harris are filled with standing stones and Neolithic villages, tombs, and burial grounds.

Scotland can also be the more affordable of the two, especially if are willing to wild camp. The amount of money that can be saved on accommodation just from that small aspect is enough to make many people choose to visit Scotland over Ireland. However, beyond this, there isn’t much of a price difference between the two countries.

However, if you’re choosing between the two and consider yourself a foodie, then Ireland might be the better choice for you. There is a high concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants throughout the country, the local produce is amazing, and there has been a very cool food scene happening in Ireland in recent years.

Inventive chefs reimaging the local cuisine might well be the best thing that has ever happened to the Irish gastronomic scene. Even in the smallest of villages, you can find exciting and fantastic gastropubs which are excellent eateries with incredibly high quality. The same doesn’t exist to the same degree in Scotland.

If you’re more interested in recent history, then Ireland might also be the better option. While there is a long and fascinating ancient history in the country, you can also learn about Ireland’s fight for independence in the not-so-distant past. If you happen to visit Northern Ireland, it is also worth educating yourself about the Troubles and the conflict that wasn’t fully resolved until fairly recently.

All in all, it can be a tough choice to find out if it is better to visit Ireland or Scotland. Both countries are worth visiting and spending time in their own rights and have a lot to offer travellers. It depends on your travel style and preferences to figure out which country is right for you.

Are you struggling to decide between visiting these countries? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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A Perfect 2-Week Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi, Am planning to visit Scotland 1st week of Sep 2022, i need few details like which one is better renting a car or using public transport. 1. Can you suggest some cheapest & good car renting sites or company in Scotland 2. Can i able to drive the car with valid Indian driving licence 3. Any suggestions for accommodtion for 2 budgeted one.

As a regalar visitor to both (at least 4 times to both each a year), I can assure you, if you’re looking for richer culture, more diversity, slightly cheaper, much friendlier people, better food, a much richer Gaelic culture, etc., Ireland is your man.

Hi , I am planning for a 11 days trip to London – Ireland – Scotland . Can u help me out with a perfect iteinary . This is in last week of September. My plan is 4 days in London , 3 days in Ireland and 4 days in Scotland . Or do u suggest me skipping Ireland and doing only London and Scotland ? Will be travelling with my wife , my 9 year old son and 4 year old daughter.

With the time you have, I think it would be best to plan to only visit London and Scotland rather than heading to Ireland as well. You can find some inspiration and route ideas in this article: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/london-scotland-ireland-itinerary/

I’m planning to go UK around July 2022, duration is about 2-3 weeks, plan to start our trip at London (followed by Wales and Lake district), hesitating to go Scotland and/or Ireland. Our preference is nature scenery and pretty countryside small town. Do you think if 3 weeks for England + Scotland + Ireland is too tight? If yes, would you recommend Scotland or Ireland given our preference.

It’s really hard to choose between visiting Scotland or Ireland, especially as both countries offer what you’re after. I will say that, because you’ll already be in England ad Wales, you may want to consider Scotland over Ireland, just because it avoids having to take a flight or ferry. If you want our itinerary for England, Scotland and Ireland, you can find it here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/london-scotland-ireland-itinerary/

We are planning a trip to Scotland late June through early July 2022. There will be 6 of us. I love the idea of starting the trip in London and taking the train to Edinburgh. I have a few questions if you would be so kind to give some advice. I am overwhelmed and have never planned a trip like this:)

What would be your must do’s in London if we only have a day or two there?

Is the train route a scenic one?

We really want to spend a day or two at lake Skye. What is the best approach for this from Edinburgh?

Do you think that having a home base at an airbnb in Edinburgh is possible to still see and do lots of things? We do not plan on having a car because there are 6 of us and they look to be very expensive.

Any advice you can give would be so appreciated. I am open to all suggestions:)

Hi Shayna, thanks for your comment. We have a detailed London itinerary that I’m sure can help you plan your time there: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/days-in-london-itinerary/ The train route from London to Edinburgh is incredibly scenic and I’m sure you and your group will enjoy it. We also have a Skye itinerary that should help you figure out what to do there: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/isle-of-skye-itinerary/ Edinburgh can make an incredible base in Scotland and there are lots of day trip options, even if you don’t have a car. You can find a lot more information about all of your options in our Scotland travel guide here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/scotland-travel-guide/ Hope you’re able to plan a great trip!

I’ve lived in, and travelled through both extensively over the years.

Ireland edges it in the fun-stakes, and the interactions with people. Don’t agree with Scotland edging it regarding scenic beauty either, but it is a very beautiful country.

Thanks for your insight, Senen!

I know this article was posted some time ago, but we are really struggling with our choice and need some advice. Our plan is to go next July. My daughter and her boyfriend will be 21 and my son will be 18 and we just want them to have a good trip. My daughter would like to experience small town culture, beautiful landscapes, and maybe the odd castle. Her boyfriend likes “rocks and trees” and has never seen the ocean. My son just wants to drink beer and is quite uninterested in beautiful scenery. Lol. Please advise.

Hi Cathy – it seems like both Scotland and Ireland would suit for what you’re after, but maybe Ireland would tip the scale? Especially if your son wants to spend time drinking beer I see no better place than the home of Guinness! Beautiful landscapes, seaside scenery and the odd castle abound in both so you really cannot go wrong with either choice 🙂

Hi Maggie, Thanks for your great article. I mainly want to hike and walk in beautiful areas. I was considering basing myself in Galway and then using a car service or renting a car to get to more remote places. If I wanted to bypass big cities (Edinburgh), where would you suggesting a base location in Scotland? Thanks again.

Hi Carol, Inverness sounds like it would be a good option for you. It’s a small, quiet city with easy access to countless natural areas and historic sites. I’d recommend hiring a car here, as well. Hope this helps and you’re able to plan a great trip!

Having been to both… But then I was only 12 at the time… I was also at the whim of guided tours or my parents as they were the ones driving and paying for it all… My experience is somewhat limited. However I did enjoy Scotland more… With the exception of the blarney castle. Kissing the stone was on the bucket list for my life ever since I learned about it in a cartoon as a child. However, Scotland does have some amazing and breathtaking views! I also remember Scotland being hilly and green… Which is a big difference from England which is mostly flat in the south (I lived in England for three years near Cambridge) I also vaguely remember visiting Waterford, Ireland and being bombarded by a lot of pollution in the air. No Bueno!

So besides kissing that stone, Scotland was my favorite of the two!

Thanks for your insights, Laura! Glad to hear you had a great time in both 🙂

Scotland is amazing! I did a ten day trip without a car. Admittedly, this does limit you, but with buses running to smaller towns, it can be done. Don’t overlook Glasgow. It it wonderful and the neighborhood pubs with their impromptu “sessions” by local musicians were the best evenings in my life! No thing everyone should take the time to get to the Isle of Iona. The ferry leaves from Oban on the mainland (and site of my favorite scotch), a bus travels across the Isle of Mull and a short ferry on to Iona — paradise! The water looks like the Caribbean, as the Gulf Stream travels all the way there before turning south. It’s just a maniacal place. Iona still has a working monastic community. Originally founded by St Columba, it now is a coed, interdenominational community. Can’t wait to go back. Definitely do not go in the Spring, a total rain fest, but it was still incredible!

Happy to hear you had such a wonderful time in Scotland, Troy! Agree that it is an absolutely beautiful country to visit 🙂

It’s true that Scotland is the more beautiful of the two, but I had such a good time in Ireland that it’s impossible for me to recommend one over the other. I guess it didn’t help that two of the three days I spent in the Isle of Skye it was so foggy I couldn’t see anything. I will say that both Edinburgh and Glasgow were more interesting to me than Dublin. But Ireland is very enchanting. If you’re agonizing over which place to visit, don’t. You can’t go wrong with either choice.

It’s so true, Eric! There really isn’t a bad choice between the two 🙂

My husband and I have been married for 40 years and we have always talked about going to Scotland as his ancestry is Scottish. We have no idea where to start. Would it be best to go with a travel guide? Guided tour group? Also, what time of the year (temperature wise) would the best time to go. We live in the Midwest where our seasons are beautiful and change gradually. We may get very frigid temps in Winter but don’t usually last and it’s not consistent from year to year. Like, today, November 7, the weather was beautiful and we went hiking in short sleeve t-shirts as the temp was 72. However I’ve seen it snow on Halloween. I just want to be prepared for whatever weather we may experience.

Thanks for your comment, Sherry! I get that it can be overwhelming to begin planning a trip. If you’re looking for some more information, I recommend browsing through our Scotland travel guide ( https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/scotland-travel-guide/ ) where you should find answers to all of the questions you’ve asked! Hope you’re able to plan a fantastic trip 🙂

Loved reading these comments. I am a Scot with strong Irish ancestry. Both countries are beautiful. Having been all over both countries, the place I love the most is Scotland. Even my jaw dropped on the road from Fort William to the Isle of Skye – (Loch / Glen Garry) simply stunning. However, ultimately you will love both countires – Fàilte gu Alba ??????? & Céad Míle Fáilte ?? ?

Hi Maggie, Looking at a Aug / September 2020 visit to Scotland / Ireland. Tossing up whether to do 4 weeks (two weeks in each) or 2 1/2 weeks in Scotland / few days in Great Britain then pick up Ireland another time. Would be interested in your thoughts. Cheers Mark

Hi Mark, if you think that you’ll be back in the region again, then I would recommend spending all of your time in Scotland this time around. There is so much to see and do that if you have it, it is better to dedicate more time to one place. Hope you have a great time whatever your decision!

Great thank Maggie appreciate your response…..and really appreciate the effort you go to in providing information to many.

We have been debating Ireland vs Scotland for our family of 5 (kids 13,11,9). We went to Iceland in summer ‘18 and the kids really enjoyed. My husband said some of what we saw in Iceland reminded him of Scotland (he spent a semester in Scotland). What do you think would be better for a family that enjoys being out in nature (though not into long hard hikes) vs being in metro areas (London last spring break was a good trip but kids liked Iceland better) Thanks J

Thanks for your comment, Jean! Personally, if you want to spend a lot of time out in nature and enjoy some dramatic scenery, then I would recommend visiting Scotland. Ireland is certainly incredibly beautiful, however, I just find that Scotland has more surprises and more absolute jaw-dropping scenery. I don’t think you can go wrong with either choice, though! Have a great trip 🙂

We are trying to decide between touring Scotland or Ireland for the last week of March. We would like to mix outdoor activities, museums, history, shopping, and eating (not in that order 🙂 Our dates are fixed and we are wondering if the weather in late March would be more conducive to one country or the other. We are also wondering if tourist sites and amenities are closed or have reduced hours prior to April. Thank you, Jay

Hi Jay, thanks for your comment! As weather goes, you’ll temperatures between Ireland and Scotland to be more or less the same at that time of year, however, it can get colder in Scotland if you’re farther north. I don’t think you should be impacted with tourist attraction closures or reduced hours then, either. It’s the time year when people begin to travel and most places are open for business as usual.

First of all thank you so much for this! Super helpful! We’ve been debating between Ireland and Scotland for a while. Would love to do both unfortunately we don’t have the time to spend. Thanks to your article we decided to visit Scotland first. Planning on a 4 day trip in October. About to read through your other articles! If you’d have a four day trip to pack in history, nature and if you had a car what would be the must see places? We would love any recommendations.

Thank you! Laura

Thanks for your comment, Laura! If you only have four days to spend in Scotland, I would recommend basing yourself in either Edinburgh or Inverness (depending on your interests) and doing day trips from there — it will be a lot easier if you have a car, as well. If you want some more inspiration for your trip, you can have a look at all of our Scotland content to help you plan: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/tag/scotland/

We are in the very beginning stages of planning our trip to England, Ireland and Scotland. You mentioned Airbnb in your article. What are your thoughts on the safety of Airbnb over there? We are Airbnb hosts here in the US, but I was a little bit nervous about trying to use the service abroad.

Hi Lisa, there is really no difference between using Airbnb in the UK & Ireland vs using it in the US. We’ve used it all over the world and we used to host Airbnb in our flat in London and have never had a safety issue. Also, the UK & Ireland are also statistically much safer in general than the US, as well. Hope you have a great trip!

Having been to both, hands-down do Scotland. Ireland is pretty and there are many things you can go see, but Scotland has the “charm”.

Also, don’t be put off by the “Troubles” of Northern Ireland. It’s extremely safe (at least as safe as Ireland) and very easy to get around. The history in Belfast is amazing. We enjoyed Ireland, but don’t have any compelling reason to go back and explore more. The food was great and the people were very friendly.

(We flew to Belfast, AirBnB in Belfast, rented a car. Drove to Kilkenny and Waterford, then Dublin (AirBnB). 10 days total as part of a larger itinerary. If you visit Ireland, the Waterford Crystal factory is a must see).

Thanks for sharing, Dan!

Hi Maggie! Thanks for your article! I’ve been wanting to go to Ireland since I saw the movie Leap year, and moreso Scotland since I saw Half Light, P.S. I love you, and most current, Outlander (need I say why), LOL!!! I only have 13 days to split between the two, as I admittingly NEED to make a couple stops in my beloved Italy to visit friends and family- this is a must I cannot ignore, therefore I am cutting my time in the former two by five days- I know, crazy! But I’m Italian by decent and you know how the saying goes, “blood is thicker than water.” I did see that from Dublin there is an option called “Open Road” ticket, which is a hop on- hop off bus with unlimited travel for three days, for I believe around 60 Euros, that goes along the ancient east part of Ireland (or the west/ atlantic side), which has stops in must-see places like Newgrange, Wicklow Gaol (the scary place), and Trim Castle, just to name a few. I’m thinking this is definitely an option, since renting a car can bring on extra insurance, gas and parking expenses and headaches, I’m sure. Aside from those three days, I’m thinking about visiting a friend who lives in Dublin and wing it for just a couple nights, and then stay eight nights- I just might take your advice and rough it in a tent for maybe the first two nights? I’m going to definintely consider it. What are your thoughts on my planning ideas??? Thanks again!

Hi Marina, thanks for your comment! Sounds like you’re planning a great trip. One thing that is worth mentioning is that Ireland doesn’t legally allow wild camping — it is only Scotland where it is legal. In Ireland, you will need to be at a campsite if you want to camp. Hope you have a fantastic time!

I’m planning a two week trip to either Ireland or Scotland or both. The group of family and friends consists mostly of seniors so we probably won’t be doing much hiking, just sightseeing. They are all depending on me to come through with an amazing adventure, so please help. A few questions: Can we rent cars in Ireland and return them in Scotland? Should we consider a bus tour or self drive to see more of the local fare? Is the Scottish Tattoo a must see? Thanks in advance.

Thanks for your comment, Darrell. Sounds like you’re putting together a great trip!

Hypothetically, you could hire a car in Ireland and return it in Scotland, but it is going to be very expensive when you factor in the different pick-up/drop-off locations and the high cost of the car ferry, as well. It would be far more cost-effective just to hire separate cars in Scotland and Ireland and fly between the two.

If you want to go more local, I would definitely recommend renting a car rather than going on a tour. You will have infinitely more flexibility if you are in full control of your own itinerary.

As for the Tattoo, I have never been so I cannot speak as to whether it is a “must-see,” however, it is an incredibly popular thing to see and tickets there are expensive. Prices in Edinburgh will also likely increase while it is going on, as well.

I’m planning to go next year and visit both. I’ve been to Scotland and want to go back to explore Glasgow and Skye. This will be my first time in Ireland I have Irish ancestry and want to explore that a bit more too! I know 12 days is a bit of a rush but I guess I can get a taste of both and see where I’d like to return. I’m also spending a few night in London. I think I’m going to rent a car in both and do day trips still planning so let’s see but the article was very helpful! My plan Dublin -rent a car day trip from Dublin -Belfast- do a day trip tour -fly Glasgow – rent a car for day trip- London- then home

Thanks for your comment, Mera! Sounds like you’ve got a good plan for your trip! 12 days might be rushed, but I think you have the right idea to find a base and do day trips — that will save you a lot of time instead of moving destinations every 2 or 3 days 🙂

Great article. We are doing a 10 day trip in May/June 2020 and have decided to split the two countries. We plan on flying into Cork and staying somewhere around Tipperary, Athlone or somewhere near the south-central part of the country. Keep ourselves around 1-1.5 hours from most of the sights. We aren’t going to try and do everything other than enjoy seeing the country.

We will follow up by flying from Cork to Glasgow and doing something similar there. I just have to finish planning the Scotland part of the trip.

Sounds like you have a great trip planned, Matt, and thanks for your kind words! I think you have the right idea to find a base and then explore from there, especially if you have limited time. For Scotland, I would suggest maybe staying in or near Inverness — this is a great base to explore some of the most beautiful spots of the Highlands 🙂

Hi! We are planning a 3 week trip to Scotland and Ireland in September but I am struggling with which one to fly into and out of. Would it be best to visit Ireland first or Scotland? I believe we will divide out time equally between the two countries. Any suggestions as to which airports to use? Thank you! Your help is very much appreciated!

Hi Barbara, it really doesn’t matter which airport you fly into if you’re planning on dividing your time equally between the two countries. Dublin serves as more of a hub and is much higher-traffic than any Scottish airport, but whichever airport is cheapest for you to fly in and out of should be sufficient. Hope you have a great trip!

Thanks for the Article about Ireland and Scotland!!!!!!!!!!!! Firstly it was interesting to see(from just my Google Search of ‘Ireland or Scotland!?’) and here from Articles like yours exactly how Similar the Two Places are. I had no idea of this and was in the belief that they were very different places because I have only spent time in Ireland Republic and North so was unaware of how similar it sounds like Scotland actually is to Ireland particularly when it comes to The Nature side of it.

Anyway I am still not entirely sure which one to visit both have Pro’s and Con’s, Ireland is Green and Lush however sounds like it could be a little more expensive mainly with regards to accommodation because it sounds like according to you Wild Camping is Illegal and therefore frowned upon and out of the question!!!!!!!!!! Which may be the deal breaker for me!!!!!!! Scotland sounds like it may be a cheaper Trip and maybe even more Beautiful than Ireland!!!!! Basically my Heart is saying Ireland(I also have Links/Roots in Ireland(I am Blood Wise Half Irish)) therefore feel like I have more reason to go there however have been before, my Head is saying Scotland though because overall I think it will be cheaper/more affordable as well as being at least equally Stunning if not more so than Ireland if your comments are anything to go by!!!!!!!!!! Thanks again!!!!!!!! BPR.

Thanks for sharing, Ben 🙂 Hope you have a great trip!

Thank you for the article. I am struggling with planning this trip, for two years now actually. I am beginning to plan a trip for 2020, likely August or September. Had hoped to visit both countries, and wonder if, in your opinion, they are doable in a 10-14 day span? Not hitting everything, but getting a great taste of each country this time around? Renting a car for sure, also travel with a parent whose mobility is slightly restrained (so no hikes unfortunately this time). Any recommendations are appreciated. Thinking Dublin as homebase and taking day trips, possibly an overnight in another town. Then heading to Scotland. Thank you for inspiring me to get back on the trip planning, I had been overwhelmed, but ready to dive in now.

Hi Patti, thanks for your comment! Personally, if you’re just looking to see the highlights of Scotland and Ireland and don’t plan to do any hiking, then I see no reason why you couldn’t visit both countries in about a 2-week span. My suggestion would be to base yourself in Dublin and Galway in Ireland and do day trips from these cities and then do the same in Edinburgh and Inverness in Scotland. I think this would give you a good overall taste of the countries (and leave a lot of room to plan future trips!). If you want some more help planning, we have an itinerary that might be helpful for you here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/london-scotland-ireland-itinerary/ Hope this helps!

Thank you for this article. I am interested in visiting both, but only have time for one at present. I was thinking renting a vehicle and driving “off the beaten path”. I like that idea. My plan is to travel the second week of September. After reading your article, both areas sound aweinspiring, but I think I will travel to Scotland first. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks for your comment, Peter! Great choice in picking Scotland — no matter how much I love Ireland, Scotland is a place that continues to draw me back. I hope you have an amazing time. If you want some help planning your trip, we have a bunch of Scotland content to get you started. You can check out our itinerary here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/scotland-road-trip-itinerary/ and the rest of our Scotland archives here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/tag/scotland/ And we’re always available to answer any more questions you might have 🙂

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