From palaces to cobbled alleys and even a castle on a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

Scotland’s stunning landscapes, lochs, islands and mountains combine to form a country that’s as unique as it is beautiful. Where else could you explore 709 islands, while drinking over 130 different types of whisky? Tee off on scenic courses in the birthplace of golf and watch men in kilts play tug o’war? Or listen to the sound of bagpipes, alongside tales of a monster in a loch, a real-life Macbeth and a national Braveheart?
They’re not the only characters you’ll meet here. See Scotland’s film-star good looks on a set-jetting jaunt through sweeping glens and mighty castles, immortalised in Harry Potter, James Bond and Outlander.
Photo by: The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo/IG Photography
Edinburgh’s place as cultural capital means there’s a yearly schedule packed with festivals and events. Month-long Fringe Festival may be the most famous, but it’s also worth checking out music lover’s Edinburgh International Festival, New Years’ extravaganza Hogmanay, and June’s inclusive celebration of love that is Pride Edinburgh.
Photo by: VisitBritain/Tommy Ga-Ken Wan
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland
Scotland’s second city is an underrated creative hub. Whether it’s admiring street art on the colourful mural trail, catching an exhibition at the Baroque Kelvingrove Art Gallery, or checking out contemporary work in the Gallery of Modern Art, there’s inspiration everywhere you look in Glasgow.
Photo by: VisitBritain/Nadir Khan
An ancient giant of the land, plan a hike up Ben Nevis – part of the Grampian Mountain range and Scotland’s tallest peak. At the summit, there’s evidence of a volcanic explosion in the form of light-coloured granite.
Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu Films/Ula Blocksage/Diane Selbie
Location: Dundee, Scotland
Dundee’s arts and culture scene is thriving, thanks to the V&A design museum and a host of theatres and galleries. Succession fans – did you know that the V&A makes a cameo in the hit series? Spot quirky statues around the city centre, take a stroll along the revamped waterfront and take in some of Dundee’s colourful street art.
Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Jemima Jones
Take a short walk from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and discover a Royal Park adjacent to Holyrood Palace. Arthur’s Seat, the park’s highest point, is the remains of a volcano. Climb to the top to be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views of Edinburgh and the Lothians.
Photo by: VisitScotland
Sample the fine peaty whiskies of the Isle of Islay, explore castles on Skye, spot sea eagles on the Isle of Mull or visit the ancient abbey on the Isle of Iona. You’ll find Fingal’s Cave on Staffa, basking sharks off the shores of Coll and quiet beaches to roam on Colonsay.
Photo by: VisitScotland
Dominated by a magnificent curvilinear glasshouse called Kibble Palace, discover a garden with 200 years of history and a collection of over 9,000 different plants.
Find out more about Glasgow Botanic GardenPhoto by: VisitBritain/Highland Games Academy
Built around traditional Highland sports such as the caber toss, tug o' war and hammer throw, attending a Highland games event over the summer months is a fun way to experience Scottish and Celtic culture.
Find out more about the Highland GamesPhoto by: mps7190
Location: Glasgow
Explore this colourful route around Glasgow that has brightened up the city. Many local artists have been commissioned to create these huge art pieces, often depicting and celebrating life in Scotland’s second city.
Find out more about the Glasgow Mural TrailPhoto by: Keith Valentine
Prepare for the party of a lifetime with Edinburgh’s unmissable Hogmanay celebrations. Seeing in the New Year, get ready for buzzing street parties, live concerts and a firework display that’ll leave you in awe.
Find out more about Edinburgh’s HogmanayWant a Scottish summer holiday off the beaten track? Angus has more to offer than its world-famous beef – though that lives up to the hype. And with fast train and bus links from Dundee, it couldn’t be easier to explore the region.
It’d be rude not to tee off in the home of golf, wouldn’t it? Visit the legendary Carnoustie Golf Links, home to the Championship Course and eight-time host of The Open.
Experience the secret side of the Angus coast with Arbroath Cliff Tours. They’ll take you on an unforgettable kayaking adventure through hidden caves and tunnels, where you’ll discover an underground beach.
Calm those nerves back down with a cocktail or two at Arbikie distillery, made with the world’s first climate-positive spirits. A guided tour will show you what puts them at the forefront of sustainability, and you’ll have the chance to craft your own eco-friendly tipples too.
Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu Films/Ula Blocksage
Location: Angus, Scotland