Scotland is a breath of wild, moody, calming, and cozy fresh air. It is the perfect place to get away from it all, yet equally known for its hospitable nature and kind locals. From the misty green Highlands, to the infectious charm of Edinburgh, Scotland is a must on your travel bucket list.
We have compiled the perfect 10-day itinerary for you to experience all that Scotland has to offer and leave you with lasting memories, plus a sense of rejuvenated wonder. Kick back with a Scotch (or as the Scots call it, whiskey), get inspired, and let ELx plan your next trip to Scotland today!
10 Stunning Days in Scotland
Day 1— Arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city, after an overnight flight from the U.S. Take the afternoon to check in to your hotel, explore the surrounding city at your leisure, and rest up for the following days.
Day 2— Explore Edinburgh; Wander through the stores, pubs, and restaurants of the Royal Mile, stop and smell the roses at the Royal Botanical Gardens, and embark on a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle or Stirling Castle.
Day 3— Drive to St. Andrews, stopping for lunch in South Queensferry overlooking the world-famous Forth Rail Bridge. The scenic drive along the Fife coastline to the "home of golf" passes by picturesque fishing villages and views across the waters of the Firth of Forth back toward Edinburgh.
Day 4— Drive to Speyside and take in part of the Distillery or Castle trails - eight malt whiskey distilleries that make up the “Malt Whiskey Trail” of Speyside.
Day 5— Drive to Culloden, where the massacre of the Scottish Jacobites in 1746 took place; Experience a virtual re-creation of the battle and feel like you’re in the middle of a battlefield. Continue your time in Inverness, and listen to traditional music at one of the many pubs.
Day 6— Cruise on Scotland's most famous loch, Loch Ness, and visit the historic Urquhart Castle. From there, make your way to Skye, known for its rugged landscapes and medieval castles. Pass by the Eilean Donan Castle and Kyle of Lochalsh along your way to the village of Plockton.
Day 7— Cross the bridge to the Isle of Skye, home to the Cuillin mountains, the Talisker whisky distillery, craft shops and more.
Day 8— Rest up after your travels, and enjoy the day exploring Skye.
Day 9— Take the car ferry to Mallaig on the mainland and stop for some world-famous fish-and-chips. Continue south on the Road to the Isles, past white beaches to the old garrison town of Fort William, with Ben Nevis - the U.K.'s highest peak - in the background. Stop at Glenfinnan on the way to see Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Glenfinnan Viaduct… More popularly known for the bridge overhead - otherwise known as the bridge that the Hogwarts Express travels across in Harry Potter!
Day 10— Drive south through Glencoe and across desolate Rannoch Moor to Glasgow to cap off a whirlwind week+!
Want to experience this itinerary for yourself? Schedule your FREE Travel Consultation and the ELx Travel team will book everything for you!