Scotland Travel Guide
When Visiting Scotland
I would highly recommend visiting Scotland in the Spring or early Fall when prices are lower, the crowds are thinner, and the weather is surprisingly cooperative. I visited in late April of 2024, just as winter was giving way to spring. Temperatures hovered around 15–18°C (60–65°F), the landscapes were vivid green, and the days were getting longer — which is ideal when you’re road-tripping through the Highlands.
Scotland’s must-visit cities include Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness. Edinburgh is the cultural and historic heart of the country and makes a perfect starting point. Glasgow brings an edgier, creative energy with incredible food and music. Inverness serves as the gateway to the Highlands and is ideal if you’re planning a road trip through rugged landscapes and coastal villages.
Beyond the cities, don’t miss the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye. This is where Scotland shifts from beautiful to cinematic — jagged cliffs, rolling glens, ancient castles, and sheep that refuse to acknowledge traffic laws.
The official language of Scotland is English, although you’ll hear Scots and Scottish Gaelic in certain regions. Accents can be strong in some areas, but the locals are very friendly.
The official currency is the British Pound (£). Credit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payment is common almost everywhere. I recommend using a card with no foreign transaction fees and always choosing to pay in the local currency (GBP). It’s still smart to carry a small amount of cash for rural pubs or small shops, especially in the Highlands.
Be sure to check out my many articles and guides for Scotland!
- Top 10 Sites in Edinburgh
- 48 Hours in Edinburgh
- Favorite Spots on the Isle of Skye
- 10 Day Road Trip Through The Scottish Highlands
