Curator’s statement
Scotland, a land of enchanting castles and historic charm. From the iconic Edinburgh Castle to the cliffside ruins of Dunluce, each fortress tells a unique story of heroism and intrigue. This nation is also the birthplace of golf, home to the legendary St. Andrews and countless other breathtaking courses, making it a golfer's paradise.
Wander the mysterious cobblestone streets of Edinburgh, where the Royal Mile connects vividly historic sites with bustling pubs and quaint shops. The city's old town, with its narrow alleys and hidden courtyards, exudes a magical atmosphere that evokes centuries of fascinating tales and folklore.
Whether you're interested in its beautiful castles, famous golf courses or the charming streets of Edinburgh, Scotland offers an unforgettable adventure full of history and mystery.
The Fora Difference
Book with Kim to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Scotland
Unlock perks by contacting Kim to book your trip.
Things to do in Scotland
Scotland offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some popular things to do in Scotland:
1. Explore Edinburgh: Visit the old capital of Scotland, see Edinburgh Castle, walk along the Royal Mile and look at the beautiful views from Arthur's Seat.
2. Discover the Scottish Highlands: Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Highlands, including the famous Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Isle of Skye.
3. Visit castles: Scotland is known for its many historic castles, such as Stirling Castle, Eilean Donan Castle and Urquhart Castle. Explore the fascinating history and architecture of these iconic landmarks.
4. Visit the Whisky Trail: Scotland is famous for its whisky. You can visit many whisky distilleries along the Whisky Trail in Speyside and other areas.
5. Enjoy outdoor activities: Scotland is a great place for people who like to be outside. You can hike, mountain bike, golf, fish and watch wildlife in the beautiful countryside.
6. Attend a Highland Games: Experience Scottish culture and traditions at a Highland Games event, where you can watch traditional sports, music and dancing.
7. Visit the Isle of Skye: Explore the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye, known for its dramatic landscapes, picturesque villages and ancient castles.
8. Visit the Scottish Borders: See the beautiful towns and historic places in the Scottish Borders region, including Melrose Abbey, Abbotsford House and Peebles.
9. Take a train ride through Scotland: Travel on one of Scotland's beautiful train routes, like the West Highland Line or the Jacobite Steam Train, for great views of the countryside.
10. Explore the cities: Visit other Scottish cities like Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness to experience their unique culture, shopping, dining and entertainment.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Scotland. Whether you're interested in history, nature, outdoor activities or cultural experiences, Scotland has something to offer every traveler
Day trips
Take the train into Edinburgh. See the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. The castle has a rich history dating back over a thousand years and offers breathtaking views of the city.
Take a day trip to Stirling to see the William Wallace Monument and the Stirling Castle. The William Wallace Monument is a tall tribute to the famous Scottish hero, who was from Scotland. It is near Stirling. This famous monument remembers William Wallace's life and work. He was a key person in Scotland's fight for independence from England in the 13th century. The monument offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and houses exhibitions on Wallace's life and the Wars of Independence.
As a fan of the movie Braveheart, visiting the William Wallace Monument was one of our favorite spots in Scotland. Seeing the impressive structure in person and learning more about the real history behind the film brought the story to life in a whole new way. Standing at the monument, we felt close to Scotland's past and admired William Wallace and his countrymen for their bravery and sacrifice. The experience was both educational and inspiring, making it a must-see attraction for anyone who has been interested in the great story of Braveheart.
Sterling Castle: Situated atop a volcanic crag in the town of Stirling, Stirling Castle is one of the largest and most important castles in Scotland. It played a key role in Scottish history, including the Wars of Independence with England.
Places to eat & drink in Scotland
18 at Rusacks St. Andrews -18 is a destination rooftop restaurant at Rusacks St. Andrews, overlooking the 18th hole of the “Old Course.” The food is exquisite with the best seasonal and locally sourced Scottish beef and seafood.
Society Bar and Kitchen — Edinburgh — This trendy cafe with its cozy decor and friendly service is a must! They offer a variety of drinks, and food options. The quality and presentation of the food is mouthwatering and will delight your taste buds with every bite! My favorite dessert was the Creme Brule, topped with mango sherbet.
Need to know
Golfing in St. Andrews and Carnoustie -St. Andrews is often referred to as the "Home of Golf," and is home to several renowned golf courses, including the Old Course, the oldest course in the world. Even if you're not a golfer, you can still enjoy the beautiful scenery and history of the courses. If you’re lucky, you can get a photo at the famous “Swilcan Bridge” located on the 18th hole of the Old Course, which is a well-known landmark in the world of golf.
Travel Advisor
Kim Oakden
Get in touch with Kim
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Kim within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Scotland. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out this guide, How to Play Golf at St Andrews Old Course: A Bucket List Trip to Scotland