7 Days Scotland, UK Itinerary
This 7-day itinerary explores the best of Scotland, from the historic streets of Edinburgh to the breathtaking landscapes of the Highlands and Isle of Skye. It balances iconic landmarks with local experiences, ensuring a memorable and affordable trip.
Duration
7 days
Budget
$700-1400
Best Time
The best time to visit Scotland is generally late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) for milder weather, fewer midges, and vibrant landscapes
Activities
28
Daily Avg
$150/day
Cities
Scotland (2d), Inverness (5d)
Pace
Moderate
Scotland offers stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From exploring ancient castles to hiking through the Highlands, there's something for everyone. The friendly locals and delicious food add to the unforgettable experience.
Your itinerary covers 9 of 11 must-have experiences
A Historic Castle Experience
Day 1: Edinburgh Castle
A Whisky Distillery Tour
Day 4: Loch Ness Bus Tour
A Majestic Highland Landscape or Loch
Day 4: Loch Ness Bus Tour
A Lively Pub & Traditional Music Session
e.g., The Royal Oak (Edinburgh), The Clachaig Inn (Glencoe)
A Quaint Coastal Village or Island Getaway
Day 5: Bus to Isle of Skye (Portree)
A World-Class Museum or Art Gallery
Day 2: Scottish National Gallery
A Distinctive Scottish Culinary Experience
Day 2: Scottish National Gallery
An Ancient Standing Stone Circle or Neolithic Site
e.g., Callanish Standing Stones (Isle of Lewis), Ring of Brodgar (Orkney)
A Scenic Train or Boat Journey
Day 4: Loch Ness Cruise
A Ghostly Tour or Historic Underbelly Exploration
Day 4: Loch Ness Bus Tour
A Wild and Rugged Beach Walk
Day 1: Royal Mile Walk
Scottish cuisine is hearty and comforting, rooted in local ingredients like seafood, game, and oats. Expect a mix of traditional fare and modern interpretations with a focus on fresh, seasonal produce. Be prepared for some unique dishes that you won't find anywhere else!
Must-Try Dishes
Scotland's national dish! Haggis is a savory pudding containing sheep's pluck (heart, liver, and lungs), minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and stock. Served with mashed turnips ('neeps') and mashed potatoes ('tatties'). It's more delicious than it sounds!
📍 Traditional Scottish restaurants, pubs across Scotland
Scottish salmon is world-renowned for its quality and flavor. Whether smoked, grilled, or pan-fried, it's a must-try. Look for wild-caught salmon for the best experience.
📍 Seafood restaurants, fine dining establishments, fishmongers
A thick and creamy soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. It's a hearty and warming dish perfect for a chilly day.
📍 Seafood restaurants, pubs, particularly in the northeast of Scotland
A traditional Scottish soup made with barley, vegetables (like carrots, leeks, and turnips), and often mutton or beef. A very comforting and filling soup.
📍 Traditional Scottish restaurants, pubs, home-style cafes
Food Neighborhoods
Traditional Scottish cuisine, pubs, and whisky bars
Diverse range of international cuisines, trendy cafes, and upscale restaurants
Fresh seafood, local produce, and stunning views
Known for its seafood, especially Cullen Skink and locally caught fish
Vegetarian and vegan options are becoming increasingly available in most restaurants, especially in larger cities. Look for restaurants with dedicated vegetarian/vegan menus. Gluten-free options are also becoming more common, but it's always best to check with the restaurant in advance. For halal options, search for restaurants specializing in Middle Eastern or South Asian cuisine in larger cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate allergies, but be sure to inform them of any dietary restrictions when ordering.
Tipping is customary in restaurants (10-15% for good service). It's polite to wait until everyone at the table has been served before starting to eat. Asking for the bill is usually done by saying 'Can we have the bill, please?' or 'Check, please?'.
Edinburgh Fringe Festival
AugustThe world's largest arts festival, attracting huge crowds and impacting accommodation availability and prices.
Hogmanay
December 31st - January 1stScottish New Year celebrations, particularly large in Edinburgh, with street parties and events.
Highland Games
May - SeptemberVarious locations throughout the Highlands. Check local schedules.
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶From your hotel in Old Town, Edinburgh Castle is a short walk uphill.$35
9:00 AM - Edinburgh Castle
Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock. Witness the Crown Jewels of Scotland and enjoy panoramic city views. Arrive early to beat the crowds.
Book on Klook - 🚶Oink Hog Roast is a short walk down the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle.$10
12:00 PM - Lunch at Oink Hog Roast
Grab a delicious and affordable hog roast sandwich at Oink. Choose your size and enjoy the flavorful pulled pork.
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- 🚶The Royal Mile Walk is right outside Oink Hog Roast.FREE
1:30 PM - Royal Mile Walk
Stroll down the Royal Mile, the historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. Browse the shops, enjoy street performers, and soak in the atmosphere.
Book on Klook - 🚶Holyrood Palace is at the end of the Royal Mile, a pleasant walk from Oink Hog Roast.$25
4:00 PM - Holyrood Palace
Tour the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Explore the historic apartments and the ruins of Holyrood Abbey.
Book on Klook
Old Town, Edinburgh
Central location, close to major attractions, vibrant atmosphere.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Scotland is generally late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) for milder weather, fewer midges, and vibrant landscapes. Summer (July-August) offers the warmest temperatures, longest daylight hours, and major festivals like the Edinburgh Fringe, but also peak crowds and prices. Winter (November-April) is cold and wet but provides unique snowy scenery, festive events like Hogmanay, and fewer tourists.
Scotland's weather is notoriously unpredictable. Expect a mix of sunshine, rain, and wind, even in the shoulder seasons. Temperatures are generally mild, but layers are recommended.
Shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) offer a good balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices.
Be aware of Scottish bank holidays, as some businesses may be closed or have reduced hours.
Getting Around
London Underground, buses, and national rail
Oyster Card / Contactless
Use contactless or Oyster for London transport.
Travel
$100-200 (trains, buses)Accommodation
$350-700 (hostels, budget hotels)Food
$175-350Activities
$75-150 (entrance fees, tours)Take advantage of free attractions like Scotland's national museums and art galleries (e.g., National Museum of Scotland, Kelvingrove Art Gallery).
Utilize Scotland's excellent public transport (buses, trains) within cities and between major hubs; consider purchasing a multi-day pass if staying for a while.
Opt for self-catering accommodation and cook some of your meals to save on dining costs, especially if staying in rural areas.
Indulge in a premium whisky tasting experience at a renowned distillery, offering unique insights and rare drams.
Treat yourself to a fine dining experience in Edinburgh or Glasgow, showcasing Scotland's incredible local produce and seafood.
Embrace the local pub culture: many pubs offer hearty, reasonably priced 'pub grub' and are great places to soak in the local atmosphere.
- Be prepared for 'four seasons in one day'; weather can change rapidly, so layering clothing is essential.
- Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Be aware of single-track roads with passing places in rural areas.
- Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service: 10-15% in restaurants, rounding up for taxis, and a small amount for tour guides.
- Midges (tiny biting insects) are prevalent from late May to September, especially in the Highlands. Bring repellent like Smidge or Avon Skin So Soft.
- The currency is British Pound Sterling (GBP). Contactless card payments are widely accepted, but it's good to carry some cash for smaller purchases or remote areas.
- Embrace the outdoors: Even with a bit of rain, Scotland's dramatic scenery is often best experienced by getting outside.
- Familiarize yourself with local accents and phrases; don't hesitate to politely ask for clarification if you don't understand.
- Book popular attractions, accommodation, and transport in advance, especially during peak season and festivals.
- 1Waterproof and windproof jacket (absolutely essential for any season)
- 2Waterproof trousers/pants (especially for hiking or outdoor activities)
- 3Layered clothing (fleeces, thermal base layers, t-shirts)
- 4Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes
- 5Midge repellent (e.g., Smidge, Avon Skin So Soft)
- 6Universal travel adapter (Type G - three square pins)
- 7Small backpack for day trips and carrying layers/snacks
- 8Warm hat, gloves, and scarf (even in summer for cooler evenings or higher elevations)
- 9Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste
- 10Portable power bank for charging devices on the go
Accommodation (hotels, B&Bs, self-catering)
Book 3-6 months in advance, especially for Edinburgh during festivals (Fringe, Hogmanay) and popular areas like the Isle of Skye, as availability drops and prices rise significantly.
Rental Car
Book 2-4 months ahead if you plan to explore the Highlands and Islands; automatic transmission vehicles are less common and sell out quickly. Ensure you are comfortable driving on the left.
Edinburgh Castle / Holyrood Palace / Royal Yacht Britannia
Timed entry tickets are highly recommended and often required, book several weeks in advance to secure preferred times, especially during peak season.
Popular Tours (e.g., Loch Ness, Isle of Skye, West Highland Line)
Day trips and multi-day tours from Edinburgh or Glasgow to popular destinations sell out, book 1-2 months in advance.
Distillery Tours
Many popular distilleries, particularly for specialized or premium tastings, require advance booking (2-4 weeks prior is advisable).
Train Tickets (e.g., ScotRail)
Booking long-distance train journeys (e.g., to the Highlands) in advance, especially 'Advance' fares, can save money. Tickets typically go on sale 12 weeks out.
Ferry Tickets (to Islands)
If traveling to islands like Skye, Arran, or Outer Hebrides with a car, book vehicle spaces on Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) ferries months in advance, particularly in summer.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo app or website
📍 Vodafone stores, airports, convenience stores
📍 EE stores, airports, convenience stores
📍 Travelwifi website (pre-booking required)
Free WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and some public areas, particularly in cities. However, the speed and reliability can vary. Rural areas may have limited or no WiFi access.
Useful Apps
Consider purchasing a portable power bank to keep your devices charged, especially when traveling outside of cities. Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip in case you don't have internet access. Register your SIM card (if required) and be aware of roaming charges if using your home SIM. Check with your mobile provider about international plans before you go.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Three rectangular pins (UK style)
230V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10–15% if no service charge
Round up or 10%
£1–2 per bag
Check if service is included. If not, 10–15% is standard.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Scotland is generally a safe country for tourists. Exercise normal precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded areas.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
999
999
999
999 or 112 for all emergencies
Payments
Cash declining — many places are card-only
Universally accepted
Ubiquitous
Contactless payment is king. Many places no longer accept cash.
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Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit Scotland is generally during the shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) for milder weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant landscapes. Summer (July-August) offers the warmest temperatures but also peak crowds and prices.
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