BEFORE YOU GO: ESSENTIAL SCOTLAND TIPS

Here's some essential information to get you prepped for your amazing Scottish adventure:

• A wee bit of Cultural Sensitivity: Scots are proud of their unique heritage and identity. While they're part of the United Kingdom, they're not "British" and have distinct cultural traditions and accents. Embrace the opportunity to experience their rich history and local customs!

• Gear Up for the Great Outdoors: Scotland's beauty is best explored on foot, so pack a good pair of waterproof hiking shoes. Don't underestimate the changeable weather – a wind/rain-proof jacket is a must-have for any trip.

• Hitting the Road: If you plan on renting a car, be sure to bring your valid driver's license.  A standard license from your home country will allow you to drive a car or motorcycle in Scotland for up to 12 months.

• Planning Made Easy: This itinerary can be your guide for a fantastic DIY Scottish adventure! Explore at your own pace and personalize it based on your interests.

• Print and check off THIS International Travel Checklist

GETTING THERE

• Fly into Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

• Go through Immigration and Passport Control before getting your bags, then following the signs to the Car Rental/Trams/Buses & Coaches/Taxis/Car Parks/Pick Up

• You can travel to your hotel by:

  • • BUS: Locate the bus station and take the Airlink 100/Skylink 200/Skylink 400 bus to the "Shandwick Place Stop." Simply hop on, inform the driver of your destination and how many people are traveling, and tap your phone to pay conveniently. No need for a ticket booth! Buses run 24/7, making them a fantastic choice at any arrival time. 

    • TRAM: Locate the tram station and purchase your ticket at the booth before boarding. The "West End" stop is your destination.

    • TAXI: Locate the taxi station and take a Black Cab to your hotel. This is the fastest but priciest option. Most cabs accept cash or card payment.

PLACES TO STAY - Make sure to contact Maria to get the best rates for these options!

Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel (an IHG hotel)

The Caledonian Edinburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton

CHECK-IN

After checking in and refreshing up at your hotel, fuel up for your adventures with a delicious meal at Wildfire. 

Feeling energetic? Explore the charming streets of Edinburgh, or head to Calton Hill for breathtaking city views.

BREAKFAST

Start your day with a delicious breakfast and beverage at Fauna Coffee Shop. This is a great way to wake up, grab a caffeine fix, and maybe even a tasty pastry before your Edinburgh Full Day Walking Tour. This tour is the perfect way to get to know Edinburgh and includes touring the Edinburgh Castle!

EXPLORING EDINBURGH

After your tour, ask your knowledgeable guide for some dinner recommendations. They'll have the inside scoop on the best local spots (and any that have popped up recently). If you forget to ask, no worries, check out Makars Mash Bar which is a fantastic Scottish restaurant nearby, ready to satisfy your cravings with hearty dishes. 

UNWINDING AND RECHARGING

Enjoy a leisurely stroll back to your hotel after dinner. This is a great opportunity to digest your meal, reflect on the day's discoveries, and recharge for tomorrow's adventures. 

Today, enjoy Edinburgh at your own pace by wandering the charming streets, discovering hidden gems, and soaking up the city's atmosphere. 

Alternatively, consider joining another tour like one of the ones listed below!

SCOTCH WHISKY

After your tour, delve into the world of Scotch whisky! The Scotch Whisky Experience offers a fascinating journey through the history, production, and tasting of this beloved beverage. Make sure to secure your tickets beforehand! (CLICK HERE for tickets)

TWO OPTIONS TO BEGIN YOUR DAY 

Both options will lead you to have lunch at 12:00 PM, then stay on the same schedule.

12:00 - 12:45 PM: Enjoy a delicious pizza lunch at Olive Tree Takeaway or another quick local option. Feel free to get your lunch to-go, then enjoy it at Rodney Gardens. You will want to be rather quick, so just watch your timing. 

1:00 - 2:30 PM: Visit the historic Scone Palace. (CLICK HERE for tickets)

2:30 - 4:00 PM: Drive to Dunnottar Castle. (CLICK HERE to get your tickets) Kim Grant is a photographer that has a love for Scotland castles, and you can watch a video of her discovering this castle HERE. 

4:00 - 5:00 PM: Explore the dramatic Dunnottar Castle.

5:00 - 5:30 PM: Drive to THIS Stonehaven Harbour Viewpoint for a quick stop to admire the views.

5:30 - 6:00 PM: Drive to your hotel in Aberdeen.

6:00 - 7:00 PM: Check into where you are staying and freshen up (I recommend staying at the Marischal Apartments).

7:30 - 9:00 PM: Walk to and enjoy a satisfying dinner at Miller & Carter Aberdeen (steak house).

ABERDEEN ADVENTURE

Enjoy a casual morning by driving to, then walking around the University of Aberdeen, also known as King's College. Explore its magnificent grounds and don't miss the stunning chapel with its intricate stained-glass windows!

Next, choose your breakfast adventure:

• Kilau Coffee: a local favorite offering delicious coffee and treats

• Bagel Society: perfect for a satisfying and savory breakfast bagel

• The Craftsman Company - Coffee & Ale House: Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with coffee closer to where you are staying. 

TO VISIT OR NOT TO VISIT

Next, if you would like to visit another castle, head to Balmoral Castle & Estate. If seeing the inside of the castle is important to you, purchase tickets online in advance! They sell out quickly! (CLICK HERE for tickets) If tickets aren't available, or a tour isn't your thing, you can still admire the grand exterior and explore the beautiful gardens (for a fee). Allow 1-2 hours here, depending on if you take a tour.

You could decide to go based off of if they have the type of ticket/tour you would like. It can be hard to justify paying for a ticket to just enjoy the outside of a building, but it's completely up to you! If you prefer not to visit, then go straight to Inverness.

INVERNESS

Welcome to Inverness, the vibrant capital of the Highlands! Check into your hotel and unwind after your journey. 

OPTION 1:

Take a short walk to admire the stunning Inverness Cathedral. This impressive 19th-century Gothic Revival structure is a must-see for any architecture enthusiast.

Savor the essence of Scotland with dinner at Aye Eat, a restaurant specializing in local cuisine.

End your evening at The Malt Room for a taste of Scotland's national drink - whisky. Another option would be to head to Uile-bheist Distillery & Brewery.

OPTION 2: 

For a touch of culture, check the calendar at Eden Court Theatre and Cinema, the largest entertainment venue in the Highlands! (CLICK HERE to see the calendar)

OPTION 3:

Enjoy THIS "Slow Food Highland Dining and Storytelling" experience with a local!

CHOO CHOO

Today, you get to experience a magical adventure – a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Hogwarts Express!

Since tickets for the train can sell out quickly and independently, booking a tour is the best way to secure your spot. THIS tour not only includes a ride on the iconic train but also takes you to breathtaking locations like Urquhart Castle and Mallaig. Be prepared to be spellbound by the stunning scenery!

DINNER

For dinner, ask your tour guide for recommendations! You never know what hidden gem they might help you find!

MORNING

Rise and shine! Wake up and head to the Victorian Market, a 19th-century shopping arcade filled with unique stores and cafes. I recommend stopping by Milk Bar for breakfast and a beverage. 

Next, take a short walk over to the Leakey's Bookshop and browse their extensive collection. Perhaps you'll find the perfect book to be your travel companion on the next leg of your journey. 

AFTERNOON

Go back to your hotel, then make your way to your next stop. 

Today is yours to design! Whether you crave an invigorating hike up Ben Nevis, Scotland's largest mountain, Steall Falls, or one of these great options), seek out exciting activities, or simply indulge in relaxing however you care to. It's your day to enjoy. 

ALL GOOD THINGS MUST COME TO AN END

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and potentially explore the surrounding area one last time.

UNIVERSITY OF GLASGOW

Before you get to your hotel, make a pit stop at the University of Glagow. This prestigious institution might look as if this was a filming location for Harry Potter, but it actually wasn't! You'll swear it was though as you walk around. It's stunning!

Next, check into your Glasgow hotel. I recommend the AC Hotel Glasgow or the Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel & Spa.  

Once settled in, head to dinner at:

• The butterfly and the pig (eclectic pub)

• Mosob Bar & Restaurant (East African restaurant)

GOOD MORNING

Enjoy breakfast at Cafe Gandolfi, before visiting the popular Buchanan Street. Browse the wide array of stores or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere. 

For a touch of architectural splendor, pop into Princes Square and admire the stunning atrium, or wander through the charming Argyll Arcade, a Victorian shopping passage. 

AND GOODBYE

With a heart full of memories, it's time to head to Glasgow Airport (GLA). Don't forget to fill up your rental car if required by your agreement and then prepare to bid farewell to Scotland. 

As your 10-day adventure in Scotland draws to a close, you'll likely find yourself filled with a mix of emotions. Awe at the dramatic landscapes, a connection to the rich history, and perhaps a touch of melancholy as you say goodbye. But most of all, you'll probably feel a spark of inspiration. Scotland has a way of igniting the soul, whispering tales of bravery, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. Take these newfound feelings with you as you return home. Remember, Scotland isn't just a place you visit, it's a place you experience. And the experiences you've had here will stay with you long after you've boarded your flight home. So, until next time, Scotland!

BONUS TIPS

MAXIMIZE YOUR TIME

• Explorer Pass: Considering an Explorer Pass for discounts on attractions? While great for some trips, it won't be the most cost-effective here. Many listed sites are free (like Inverness Cathedral) or not included (Balmoral Castle tours). Check individual attraction websites for ticket prices. If you plan to do more castles than listed in this itinerary, crunch the numbers and see if the Explorer Pass could benefit you!

• Pre-Book: Secure your tickets for attractions as well as dining reservations for the restaurants you'd like to visit well in advance. This guarantees entry and avoids disappointment.

PLANNING YOUR DAYS

• Walking & Parking: Allow extra time for parking and walking between locations on your itinerary. This will help you avoide feelign rushed and all you to soak in the sights at your own pace.

• Flexibility is Key: This itinerary is a suggestion, a starting point to spark your Scottish adventure! Feel free to adjust it based on your interests and how much time you want to spend at each location. Don't be afraid to add or remove activities to create a perfect trip for you. 

• Check Out Events & Festivals: CLICK HERE to learn about Scotland's annual festivals! If you're there during one of the festivals, consider learning more and attending the event!

HITTING THE ROAD

• Offline Maps: Download offline maps on your phone before your trip. This way, even if you lose signal in remote areas, you'll still be able to navigate with ease. You can do this in Google Maps app!

• Snacks & Drinks: Pack snacks and drinks for long drives, especially if you choose an ambitious itinerary that involves a lot of traveling between locations.

ADDITIONAL BONUS TIPS

• Pack Comfortable Walking Shoes: Scotland offers incredible hiking opportunities and many historic sites require a bit of walking. Having a good pair of shoes will ensure your comfort throughout your trip.

• Embrace the Layers: Scottish weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers you can easily add or remove depending on the conditions.

• Understand Money/Currency: CLICK HERE to understand currency options in Scotland.

• Sample the Local Cuisine: From hearty stews to fresh seafood, Scotland boasts a delicious culinary scene. Don't miss out on trying some local specialties!

• Embrace the Unexpected: Sometimes the best travel memories are made from unexpected detours or spontaneous discoveries. Be open to new experiences and let Scotland surprise you!

By following these tips and using this itinerary as a guide, you're sure to have an unforgettable adventure in Scotland!