Scotland may be a small country, but there is so much to do, see, and add to your Scotland bucket list thanks to its distinct traditions, rich history, and stunning scenery. From the vibrant cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh to the breathtaking Highlands and stunning medieval castles, it’s truly a European gem.
So, if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure, get planning your Scottish trip today. Here are 10 unmissable things to add to your Scotland bucket list.
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See Edinburgh’s Top Sights
Every Scotland trip should include a day or two in Edinburgh, and for a good reason. The compact, hilly capital city oozes history and culture with a medieval Old Town and an elegant Georgian New Town with neoclassical buildings.
One of the most visited sights here is the magnificent Edinburgh Castle. As it was home to various kings and queens spanning many centuries, it goes without saying that this ancient building is steeped in history.
The setting is another reason why tourists flock to Edinburgh Castle as it sits atop a vast hill known as Castle Rock. As a result, looking up at this fortress gives a breathtaking perspective, and there are splendid views of the city from the castle.
If seeking phenomenal views is one of your favorite activities while traveling, hiking to Arthur’s Seat must be on your Scotland bucket list. Arthur’s Seat is not your standard hill; it’s actually an ancient volcano with a group of hills as its central peak.
It takes about two hours to climb to the top of Arthurs Seat, but it’s well worth the effort as you won’t find more expansive views of Edinburgh elsewhere. However, there are viewing points located at various points on the high if you prefer a gentler hike.
Hunt For The Elusive Loch Ness Monster
Outside of the capital city, one of the most-visited parts of Scotland is Loch Ness, purely for the famous myth of a monster named Nessie that lives there. There have been various reported sightings of Nessie throughout history, but whether there is a real creature lurking in the water or its pure folklore is up for you to decide.
Loch Ness is located about 23 miles (37 kilometers) southwest of Inverness, a stunning part of Scotland full of spectacular scenery. Several tour companies in Inverness run day trips to Loch Ness and the surroundings, including time to hunt down the elusive monster and visits to the picturesque villages and castles close by.
Swim In The Fairy Pools At Isle Of Skye
The Isle of Skye is a beautiful island just off Scotland’s northwest coast, famed for its untouched landscapes and dramatic scenery. There are many natural wonders to discover here, including the Fairy Pools, consisting of several cascading waterfalls and pools with a backdrop of the Cuillin Mountain.
The water of the Fairy Pools is vibrant blue and green with impressive transparency. Many people enjoy a refreshing dip here as the pools are swimmable, albeit a bit chilly!
The island is also known for its spectacular rock formations. Check out Kilt Rock, The Quiraing, and the Old Man of Storr!
Day trips to the Isle of Skye run from Inverness and include a stop-off at the nearby Eilean Donan, one of the most photographed castles in the world.
It sits on a small tidal island, surrounded by water and lush greenery. Its beauty has made it a famous filming location for blockbuster movies like James Bond.
Climb Ben Nevis
Ben Nevis is the UK’s highest mountain, and thus, it deserves a place on any avid hiker’s Scotland bucket list. Located deep in the highlands and surrounded by lochs and glacial valleys, Ben Nevis has a highly tranquil and breathtaking ambiance.
Ben Nevis’s summit is 4,412 feet (1,345 meters) above sea level, and it takes most hikers between 7 and 8 hours to hike up to the top and come back down.
You don’t need years of mountain hiking experience to tackle this climb. However, you should not attempt it if you have any medical condition impacting your fitness level.
Various trails lead up to the summit, some more difficult and dangerous than others. The easiest route and, thus, the best one for beginners is the Mountain Path (also known as Pony Track or ‘Ben Path).
It’s also possible to go up with a guide, which is recommended if you are hiking alone or for the first time.
Ride The Hogwarts Express Steam Train
Scotland is a desirable country for all Harry Potter fans as it is home to many of the movie’s filming locations. However, the most popular Harry Potter sightseeing activity here is Hogwarts Express, the actual steam train used in those iconic scenes.
Hogwarts Express, also known as The Jacobite Steam Train, covers part of the West Highland Line. It is operated by West Coast Railways and is open to the public, meaning anyone can ride it.
Even if you’re not a huge Harry Potter fan, a trip on this steam tram is still worth it as it covers an 84-mile (135 kilometers) route from Fort William to Mallaig in the Highlands.
You’ll pass some of the most beautiful scenery in the UK, including Ben Nevis and the deepest Sea Loch at Mallaig. And, of course, one of the other highlights of the route is crossing the jaw-dropping Glenfinnan Viaduct bridge that the much-loved movie made famous.
Try Your Hand At Some Traditional Highland Games
Scotland’s heritage goes way back, and one tradition that has been around for thousands of years is the highland games. This cultural activity is an elaborate event held multiple times in different locations each summer.
They involve athletic-style sports and games, dancing, and music. There are also tons of food and craft stalls where you can taste local dishes and pick up some unique souvenirs.
There are almost a dozen Highland games events held each summer from the end of May to the beginning of September. You can find them all over the Scottish Highlands, including Strathmore, Sterling, Dundonald, and Luss.
Attending one is a fantastic way to learn more about the country’s culture and join in the community spirit.
Visit The Famous Doune Castle
Scotland is home to many beautiful castles, but one of the most famous is Doune Castle in the Stirling district of central Scotland. It was a filming location for several films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones and Outlander.
Another reason why Doune Castle is so famous is that it is one of the most complete Medieval fortresses in Scotland. Inside you will find a labyrinth of rooms connected by spiral staircases and narrow doorways, making an exciting and memorable afternoon!
Explore The Neolithic Sites Of Orkney Islands
The Orkney Islands is a group of more than 70 islands and islets, yet only 20 are inhabited. As a result, you will find some of the most untouched nature here, including pristine beaches and the deep blue ocean.
Aside from the beautiful scenery, the Orkney Islands have over 5,000 years of unique history and are a collective UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known as the “Heart of Neolithic Orkney,” as you will find a group of Neolithic sites on the mainland that are over 5,000 years old.
One of the biggest highlights is Skara Brae, a stone-built preserved village with a reconstructed house older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza. Another must-see is Maeshowe, a chambered burial tomb built around 2800 BC full of intriguing 12th-century Viking carvings.
Sleep In A Scottish Bothy In The Wilderness
Suppose you’re looking for a unique yet alternative experience to add to your Scotland bucket list. If so, why not stay the night in a Scottish bothy?
A bothy is a basic shelter found in the highlands. They are usually left unlocked and available for anyone to use as shelter from the rain or to sleep in overnight free of charge.
However, you will only come across a bothy in the most remote mountainous areas, totally off the grid. So spending the entire night there takes a whole lot of courage!
Although a bothy is owned by the landowner, they are maintained by The Mountain Bothies Association. You don’t have to book to stay in a bothy, you can simply show up.
The association has a location map on its website. In addition, you might encounter others staying there, which will likely make the experience even more memorable.
Party In Glasgow
Finally, no Scotland bucket list is complete without a trip to the party capital of Glasgow. The port city on the River Clyde is known for many things, including its architecture, whisky, friendly locals, and vibrant nightlife.
Glasgow is a student town, so you will always find a party no matter the day of the week.
However, Glasgow’s nightlife is hugely varied. So even if you’re not one to party till the early hours, you’ll still enjoy a fantastic evening here.
Glasgow is Scotland’s cultural hub and is home to the Scottish Opera, Ballet, and National Theatre. So, if you prefer to attend a show rather than go dancing, you won’t be disappointed.
Final Thoughts On Scotland Bucket List Experiences
As you can see, Scotland is full of diverse sights and activities. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, yet its rich heritage attracts history lovers.
What’s more, the endless picturesque landscapes make it ideal for anyone looking to reconnect with nature.
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