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7-Day Scotland Itinerary for First Timers

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Amber Johnson, Travel Agent in Ottawa, KS

Amber Johnson

Ottawa, KS Travel Agent

Amber Johnson

Ottawa, KS · 3 Years of Experience

Together Travels, an independent agent with Cruises & Tours, Unlimited, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
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COUNTRIES VISITED:Scotland
PLACES VISITED:Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Isle of Skye
SUGGESTED DURATION:4 Days
First time traveling to Scotland? I have put together a 7-day itinerary that highlights the best places to visit for first timers. Fall and Spring are great times to visit Scotland. The temperature in March averages around 48°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. 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! July is one of the best months to visit Scotland as it typically offers the warmest and sunniest conditions of the year. Average daytime temperatures range from 59°F to 68°F. 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.
Close All Days
DAY1
Edinburgh
Close Day
Edinburgh Arrival & Old Town Highlights
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
DAY2
Glasgow
Close Day
Glasgow Highlights: Squares, Cathedrals & Riverside Strolls
Travel to Glasgow by ScotRail or rental car and spend the day exploring its top sights.
HIGHLIGHTS:
George Square
Kelvingrove Park
River Clyde
National Piping Centre
DAY3
Isle of Skye
Close Day
Isle of Skye & Highlands Highlights
Spend the day exploring Scotland’s dramatic Highlands and the Isle of Skye. Depart from Inverness or Edinburgh, then head toward Skye by reserved ferry or via the Skye Bridge.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Dunvegan Castle
Glenfinnan Monument
Eilean Donan Castle
DAY4
Inverness
Close Day
Loch Ness Legends & Highland History
Spend two days exploring the Scottish Highlands around Inverness, including a cruise on Loch Ness in search of “Nessie,” scenic drives through Cairngorms National Park and along the Caledonian Canal.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Fort Augustus
Dunrobin Castle
Culloden Battlefield
FINAL THOUGHTS
There is so much to see and do in Scotland! Make sure to mark off some bucket list items: staying in castle, Isle of Skye & Loch Ness. Also, try to narrow down your itinerary to your must sees.