First time traveling to Scotland? Me too! My daughter and I are going to Scotland for her Senior Trip. I am putting together a 7-day itinerary that highlights the best places to visit for first timers. We are both super excited to visit for the first time!
Best time to visit
Fall and Spring are great times to visit Scotland. The weather is still good (be prepared for rain!) and the crowds are less. We were planning to go in March, over spring break, but we would miss of few days of school and that was just too stressful. We have decided to go in July.
March vs July
Daylight hours are increasing in March and the flowers are beginning to bloom. A few considerations: the flights are very affordable in March compared to the high season in July and August. Some castles/museums may be closed for maintenance in March so be sure to check that everything you want to visit is open to tourists!
Weather
The highs for March average around 48°F, lows can get down to 36°F. The weather can be unpredictable with a mix of rain, sun and clouds. Tips: Dress in layers and don’t forget to bring a rain jacket. Preferably one long enough to cover your backside! Rain jackets are preferred over umbrellas in Scotland, as umbrellas can be a hassle (the locals don’t use them!)
July is one of the best months to visit Scotland in terms of weather, as it typically offers the warmest and sunniest conditions of the year. Average daytime temperatures range from 59°F to 68°F. However, it can occasionally get warmer, especially in the southern parts of the country. While July is one of the drier months, Scotland is known for its unpredictable weather, so it's wise to expect some rain. Tips: Carrying a light rain jacket is always a good idea.
Itinerary
Day 1 & 2 - Edingurgh
Arrive in Edinburgh – flights are overnight flights and arrive early morning next day!! We plan on hitting the ground running! Walk down to the Royal Mile. Enjoy and easy day walking around Old Town, just getting a feel for Scotland. Highlights: Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket, St. Giles Cathedral, Palace of Holyroodhouse
Transportation in Edinburgh
There are several ways to get around Edinburgh: Hop on/off bus, sightseeing bus route, Lothian and the Edinburgh tram. The trams is not very useful for tourists except for going to and from the airport.
Day 3 – Glasgow
You can get to Glasgow via the ScotRail or by renting a car. Highlights of Glasgow: George Square, Kelvingrove Park, River Clyde, Mount Stuart House, St Mungo's Cathedral, National Piping Centre, Provands Lordship, Glasgow Cathedral
Day 4&5 – Isle of Skye
Take a tour from either Inverness or Edinburgh, if you are driving make sure you make a reservation on the ferry or find the Skye Bridge. Highlights: Dunvegan Castle, Glenfinnan Monument, Flora MacDonald’s grave in Kilmuir Graveyard, Eilean Donan Castle
Day 6&7 – Loch Ness and Inverness
Cruise the Loch, looking for Nessie. Highlights: Cairngorms National Park, Caledonian Canal, Fort Augustus, Dunrobin Castle, Urquhart Castle, Culloden Battlefield (for Outlander fans!)
Conclusion
There is so much to see and do in Scotland! We are making sure to mark off some bucket list items: staying in castle, Isle of Skye & Loch Ness. We tried to narrow it down to our most wanted. I will update you all after we take our trip to see if there are any changes we would make!
About Me
Hi! I am Amber Johnson, a travel advisor based in Ottawa, Kansas, specializing in European getaways, family vacations, domestic travel, and all-inclusive packages. What began as planning trips for my own family and friends has grown into a career I love, helping clients design stress-free, memorable adventures all over the world.
