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Northeast Scotland Travel Guide

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A large triangle of land thrusting into the North Sea, northeast Scotland comprises the area east of a line drawn roughly from Perth north to the fringe of the Moray Firth at Forres. The area takes in the county of Angus and the city of Dundee to the south and, beyond the Grampian Mountains, the counties of Aberdeenshire and Moray and the city of Aberdeen. Geographically diverse, the landscape in the south of the region is comprised predominantly of undulating farmland, but as you travel further north of the Firth of Tay, this gives way to wooded glens, mountains and increasingly harsh land fringed by a dramatic coast of cliffs and long sandy beaches.

The northeast was the southern kingdom of the Picts, reminders of whom are scattered throughout the region in the form of beautifully carved stones found in fields, churchyards and museums, such as the one at Meigle. The area never grew particularly prosperous, and a handful of feuding and intermarrying families grew to wield disproportionate influence, building many of the region’s castles and religious buildings and developing and planning its towns.

Many of the most appealing settlements are along the coast, but while the fishing industry is but a fondly held memory in many parts, a number of the northeast’s ports were transformed by the discovery of oil in the North Sea in the 1960s – particularly Aberdeen, Scotland’s third-largest city. The northeast’s next-largest metropolis, Dundee, is valiantly shedding its depressed post-industrial image with a reinvigorated cultural scene and some heavily marketed tourist attractions.

North of the glens and west of Aberdeen is Deeside, a fertile, ruggedly attractive area made famous by the Royal Family: Balmoral has been a royal residence since Victoria’s time. Beyond are the eastern sections of the Cairngorms National Park, and travelling north into Moray brings you to Scotland’s most productive whisky-making area, Speyside. The northeast coast, meanwhile, offers yet another aspect of a diverse region, with rugged cliffs, empty beaches and historic fishing villages tucked into coves and bays.

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The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

Festive Feelings around Christmas in Scotland

Experience the magic of Christmas in the heart of the Scottish Highlands! Lovely Christmas Markets and winter festivals await visitors during the winter months, but this itinerary can also be turned into a summer festival hop!

Scotland's Wildest Natural Scenery

Want to lose yourself in Scotland's wildest natural scenery? This itinerary is a breath of fresh air and perfect to explore the most enchanting landscapes of the Highlands. It will allow you to get to know the wildest landscapes of Scotland, its fast-paced history and its amazing traditions.

A true 'Outlander' Adventure

Calling all Outlander lovers…you are in luck! Who would like to follow in the footsteps of the nurse Claire Beauchamp on her trip to Scotland in 1743? We have designed the perfect itinerary to experience the most charming corners that feature in the series.

Magical 7-Day Family Adventure in Scotland and England : From Harry Potter to Loch Ness!

Searching for an unforgettable family adventure? Scotland is the perfect destination! With a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and Scottish culture. This 7-day trip offers a delightful mix of activities that everyone in the family will enjoy. Get ready to create life long lasting memories!

Highland Tour: Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and Edinburgh

Discover the beautiful region of Perthshire, the famous Loch Ness and Inverness – the capital of the Highlands. Get a chance to admire Europe’s oldest mountain, stroll along sandy beaches on the Scottish West Coast, and visit the mysterious Isle of Skye.

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Filled with more natural and historical mystique than people, the region is a nature lover’s paradise for those that are willing to travel through its mist, mountains, rocks, and heather. Here you’ll find chambered cairns that are a testament to the skills of prehistoric builders and crag top castles with broken walls that tell the history of the Highlands’ turbulent past. Or you could explore the bigger cities, like Aberdeen, which was fuelled by the riches of North Sea oil and the dozens of whisky distilleries that dot the region.

Adding to the stunning scenery is a warm culture with friendly and engaging people. It is no wonder the northern Scotland region rarely fails to charm its visitors.

Visitors to the region will be welcomed with an array of activities and sights to see from woodland strolls, beachcombing, birdwatching, or sea kayaking – all finished off with an evening of relaxing by the crackling fire of a Highland pub at the end of the day. This region is sure to give you the best look at traditional Scotland and fulfil your dreams of this enchanting land.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a week, or longer, here are eight great places to visit in northern Scotland to experience the best this region has to offer  as recommended by fellow travel bloggers.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

8 great places to visit in northern scotland.

• Isle of Skye
• Drumnadrochit

Places to Visit in Northern Scotland Map

Ullapool is a small picturesque village on the northwest coast of Scotland. It sits in the shores of Loch Broom, surrounded by some of Scotland’s most iconic mountains. The current layout of the original part of the village was designed by Thomas Telford in 1788 at a time when fishing was expanding as the main industry.

Today Ullapool is a popular tourist stop, although it is still renowned for its locally caught seafood. While many use it as a holiday base for exploring the Highlands, others only stop briefly as they make their way around the famous NC500 road route. The village is also home to the ferry port that connects the Scottish Mainland with the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides.

Its growth as a tourist destination has led to the creation of many independent galleries, shops and cafes. However, it still retains its historical charm.

MUST DO IN ULLAPOOL:

• Ullapool Museum :  Situated within an old church, the museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the village. For a small admission charge, you can view a number of exhibitions which include social history and the local industries of fishing and agriculture.
• Summer Isles Cruise : Take a boat trip from Ullapool harbour to the nearby Summer Isles. The archipelago consists of around 20 islands, rocks and skerries. The cruise takes you around the main islands and up close to geological features like ‘Cathedral Cave’. It is also possible to spot marine wildlife.
• Ullapool Hill : Starting at Broom Park in the village, this walk takes you up to the summit of Meal Mor. From the height of 270m, you can enjoy panoramic views over Ullapool, Loch Broom and out to the Summer Isles.

Contribution and Photo from Susanne of Adventures Around Scotland

Reviews of Ullapool Museum   |  Reviews of Summer Isles Cruise   |  Reviews of Ullapool Hill

Aberdeen is a city found in the northeast of Scotland and is often referred to as ‘The Granite City’ because of  the grey stone was used to build many of Aberdeen’s historic buildings. 

Aberdeen is a great base for those who like street art, craft beer and coastal views and there are many things to do in Aberdeen .  This walkable city boasts of parks, bars, shops, theatres and museums but the best museum, in my opinion, is on the city walls for all to see.  Look up at the towering murals by Smug, Zacharevic (pictured) and Helen Bur which are all part of the Aberdeen Nuart festival.

Speaking of festivals, Aberdeen has something happening each month from comedy to dance, tech to boats, there’s plenty of reasons to visit throughout the year.  If craft beer is your calling, Aberdeen is home to the flagship Brewdog beer hall, as well as 6 Degrees North and Fierce taprooms.  Dust the cobwebs away with an Aberdeenshire road trip to Slains Castle and Bullers of Buchan.

MUST DO IN ABERDEEN:

• Take a street art tour in the summer :  This is the best way to see the street art murals around the city as you hear the stories behind the spray.
• Visit the Tollbooth Museum : Step back in time to see how prisoners were treated and the types of convictions they served time for. You may be surprised! 
• Old Aberdeen : Wander the cobbled roads and walk among the university buildings and gardens. Contrast the old with the new at Sir Duncan Rice Library.

Contribution and Photo from Gemma of Two Scots Abroad

Reviews of Tollbooth Museum   |  Reviews of Old Aberdeen

Kirkwall is the capital of the Orkney Islands, a small archipelago located eight miles north of the Scottish mainland. It was first settled about 1000 years ago by Norse adventurers (the Vikings) who named it ‘Kirkjuvagar’ now Kirkwall meaning ‘Church on the bay’.

In the 12th century, the magnificent St Magnus Cathedral was built which is still dominant over the town with its rich stone design. In 1486 the town became a Royal Burgh, but in more recent times Kirkwall and nearby Scapa Flow was a strategic position during World War I and World War II with access to both the North Sea and the North Atlantic.

Today the town is home to about 9,000 people with the influences of the past still strong amongst the traditions of the islands. It has been named the best place to live in Scotland for the last eight years and has Scotland’s ‘Most Beautiful High Street’.

MUST DO IN KIRKWALL:

• St Magnus Cathedral : The cathedral is located in the centre of town and is known as the ‘Light in the North’. It was founded in 1137 by Earl Rognvald a Viking who started it in honour of his uncle, St Magnus, who was martyred in Orkney.
• Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces : The Bishop’s Palace was built at the same time as St Magnus Cathedral and in the 1600’s Patrick Stewart the Earl of Orkney had the new, ornate Earl’s Palace built. Both are now in ruins.
• Orkney Museum : Orkney Museum is tucked away behind a huge wooden door and archway just across from St Magnus Cathedral. It is a treasure trove of everything Orkney from Neolithic finds to Orkney chairs and everything in between.

Contribution and Photo from Suzanne of Meandering Wild

Reviews of St. Magnus Cathedral   |  Reviews of Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces   |  Reviews of Orkney Museum

READ MORE:  Looking for more great places to visit in Scotland? Check out these 8 great places to visit in Southeast Scotland !

ISLE OF SKYE

The Isle of Skye is absolutely breathtaking and should be included in any Scotland itinerary . Located off the west coast of Scotland , the Isle of Skye has some of the most impressive scenery in Scotland just waiting to be explored.  Measuring 50 miles in length, the Isle of Skye is the largest of the Hebrides islands and arguably the most impressive.

You can reach the Isle of Skye from the mainland of Scotland either by car via the Skye Bridge or by ferry from Mallaig to Armadale or Glenelg to Kylerhea. Whether you’re looking for rugged landscapes, picturesque villages, cascading waterfalls or medieval castles , the Isle of Skye has it all.

MUST DO IN ISLE OF SKYE:

• Old Man of Storr :   The ‘Old Man of Storr’ is one of the most photographed places in Scotland, if not the world, and for good reason. Part of the Trotternish Ridge, this spectacular rock formation requires a 45-minute (mostly uphill) hike to reach it but it’s entirely worth it. Walking through these rock pinnacles feels like you’ve been transported to another world. For a truly magical experience, hike up for sunrise where you’ll be rewarded with the most beautiful location for sunrise and experience the Old Man of Storr prior to the hordes of tourists.
• Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls: Kilt Rock is so named due to the basalt columns that give it the pleated appearance of a kilt. At the same viewpoint for Kilt Rock, you will also find Mealt Falls. At approximately 55m in height, this impressive waterfall plunges from the sea cliffs directly onto the beach below, with Kilt Rock as its backdrop.
• Quiraing:  Further north from Kilt Rock and the Old Man of Storr, Quiraing is another spectacular Scottish icon. A walk through Quiraing leads you amongst some of the most stunning scenery in Scotland and is a photographer’s dream.

Contribution and Photo from Sophie of We Dream of Travel

Reviews of Old Man of Storr   |  Reviews of Kilt Rock |  Reviews of Quiraing

The largest city in the Moray Speyside region, Elgin is home to only 23,000 inhabitants. Dating back to 1190 AD, Elgin is a former “royal burgh” (autonomous municipality). Today, Elgin is one of the jumping-off points to explore the Speyside whiskey region.

Located to the south of the River Lossie, Elgin is a quaint Scottish village that features local shops, narrow streets and is home to one of the oldest museums in the UK, the Elgin Museum. The area is known for some of the most traditional Scottish food including the famous Cullen skink.

MUST DO IN ELGIN:

• Gordon & MacPhail : Producers of Benromach and Gordon & MacPhail whiskies, as well as Red Door Gin, Gordon & MacPhail, have been calling Elgin home since 1895. Guests can tour the Benromach to learn the art of distilling whiskey. But the real must-visit is the Gordon & MacPhail shop. Located in Elgin, the shop is a high-quality delicatessen featuring locally produced meats and cheese as well as other edibles. The highlight of the shop is its Whisky Room, which contains over 1000 different single malt whiskies.
• Avva Scottish Gin and El:Gin : In recent years there has been an increase in gin producers across the Moray Speyside region. In Eglin, two producers, Avva Scottish Gin and El:Gin are worth seeking out either at their distilleries for a quick tour and taste or in one of the pubs and restaurants around the region.
• Johnstons of Elgin : Producers of high-quality cashmere since 1797, Johnstons of Elgin is a must-visit during any trip to Elgin. Visitors can take a free tour of Johnston’s to learn how they transform raw wool into fine cashmere. Afterwards, explore their two-story shop that features a variety of cashmere clothes to purchase.

Contribution and Photo from Amber of Food and Drink Destinations

Reviews of Gordon & MacPhail   |  Reviews of Johnstons of Elgin

DRUMNADROCHIT

Drumnadrochit, or Drum as the locals call it, gets its name from the Gaelic Druim na Drochaid  which means ‘Ridge of the Bridge’. The bridge crosses the river and was the reason why it became a settlement in the 17th century.

It is most famously known as the ‘Capital of Loch Ness’ as it lies on the west bank of this famous stretch of water. It sits on the A82 that links Inverness (25-minute drive) in the east with Fort Augustus in the west.

MUST DO IN DRUMNADROCHIT:

• Nessieland :   Drumnadrochit is a tourist honey pot, especially in the summer, with cafes and souvenir shops selling ‘Nessie’ memorabilia. Nessieland is a fabulous stop if you have young children as they can learn about the famous monster and also use up energy in the Nessie playground!  
• Loch Ness Centre and Experience :   Yes, most things in Drumnadrochit concern the Loch Ness Monster and to learn more, visit the Loch Ness Centre and Experience where, during a walking tour you learn everything about Loch Ness – how it was formed, its geology, sedimentation, and all of the scientific explorations since 1930 that have tried to prove/disprove Nessie’s existence. If the weather is good, you should combine this visit with a boat ride on the Loch.
• Urquhart Castle :   This was one of Scotland’s biggest castles, with a very busy history as it switched between English and Scottish control. Built in the 13th century on the grounds of a medieval fortification, it played an important role during the Wars of Scottish Independence. In 1692 it was partially destroyed to prevent the Jacobites from inhabiting it. Today, it is an Instagrammer’s dream on a sunny day … castle ruins with the expanse of the Great Glen and Loch Ness behind it. You can take guided tours, and children can opt to do one of four Discover Missions while they explore the ruins.

Contribution and Photo from Tracey of Pack The PJs

Reviews of Nessieland   |  Reviews of Loch Ness Centre and Experience   |  Reviews of Urquhart Castle

READ MORE: Looking for more great places to visit in Scotland? Check out these 8 great places to visit in Southwest Scotland ! 

Known as the ‘Gateway to the Highlands’, the charming city of Inverness is one of the best places to visit in Scotland. Not only is it one of the best stops to make when driving from Edinburgh to the highlands, but it is also situated within a stone’s throw of some of Scotland’s most iconic natural sites and attractions including Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, and the Culloden battlefield.

Though many visitors use Inverness as a jumping-off point to explore the surrounding area, the city has a fair amount to offer in and of itself, as well. Often overlooked, Inverness offers a lovely slice of what life is like in a Scottish highland city and is very much worth exploring in its own right.

MUST DO IN INVERNESS:

• Inverness Castle : Though it isn’t as impressive as some of the other castles in Scotland , make sure to take in the Inverness castle, which now functions as the city’s courthouse.
• Ness Islands : You also must make sure to take a stroll along the tranquil River Ness until you reach the Ness Islands, a city park made up of some islands in the river, all connected by footbridges. It is a welcome bit of greenery in the city.
• Hootananny Pub : If you are looking for something fun to occupy yourself in the evening, then head over to the Hootananny Pub, an award-winning establishment known for the nightly traditional Scottish music and it also hosts a weekly ceilidh!

Contribution and Photo from Maggie of The World Was Here First

Reviews of Inverness Castle   |  Reviews of Ness Islands   |  Reviews of Hootananny Pub

Lerwick is the largest town and seaport in the Shetland Islands and also functions as its capital. The Shetland Islands are a small group of islands in the North Sea halfway between Norway and Scotland.

The Shetland Islands have been settled for at least 3,000 years, and there is evidence of habitation in the Lerwick area for that long as well.  Lerwick was founded as a formal settlement in the 17th-century as a seaport providing support to fishermen from the Nordic countries.

The city centre boasts many historic buildings from the 18th-century including the picturesque “Lodberries”, 18th-century warehouses with their foundations in the sea. Lerwick is the commercial centre of the Shetland Islands and is home to approximately 7,000 of the total population of 22,000 living in the Shetland Islands.

MUST DO IN LERWICK:

• Shetland Museum and Archives : With 85,000 visitors a year, the Museum & Archives in Lerwick are a must-see. Learn about the fascinating history of the Shetland Islands with informative displays and interactive exhibits, see how a traditional boat was made, and discover interesting Viking stories.
• “Shetland” TV Series Locations:  Discover the top Shetland location featured in the “Shetland” TV series. Great for fans of the popular TV crime drama, you’ll be able to see some of the best-known locations featured in the series including Jimmy Perez’ home, Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, and Hay’s Dock Café.
• Up Helly Aa :   The most spectacular annual event in Lerwick, this fire festival held in mid-winter is a celebration of Shetland’s Viking history. Likened to a northern version of Mardi Gras and lasting just one day (and all night), this event features squads of heavily disguised men, with the lead squad wearing Viking dress. The evening culminates in the torching of a full-size Viking longship.

Contribution and Photo from Lesley of Freedom 56 Travel

Reviews of Shetland Museum and Archives   

Looking for more information to plan your visit to Scotland? You may find these articles helpful.

8 Great Places to Visit in Southeast Scotland

• Weekend Guide to Edinburgh

Beautiful and Historic Castles to Visit in Scotland

• 17 Weekend Breaks in Scotland

MAP OF PLACES TO VISIT IN NORTHERN SCOTLAND

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO SCOTLAND

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

• Want to visit castles in Scotland? Check out   The Complete Illustrated Guide to Castles, Palaces, and Stately House of Britain and Ireland   and you’re sure to find plenty to explore!
• The Most Amazing Royal Places in Britain   brings British heritage to life with hundreds of ideas for days out to discover castles, grand estates, and the secret hideaways of kings and queens.
• For all things Scotland, you can’t go wrong with Rick Steves! Check out his   Scotland travel guide , full episodes of his   TV show , or download his app for excellent   audio tours .

Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our   full disclosure policy here . 

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North Eastern Scotland

Scotland’s north east is rich in culture and history, with sweeping scenery, nature reserves and gigantic sea cliffs. Here you will find Aberdeenshire, an area home to over 300 castles, the city of Dundee and the abundant whisky distilleries of Moray Speyside.

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8 tried and tested things to do in North East Scotland

There’s something for everyone.

• Post author By Rebecca Gibson
• Post date 10th March 2023

Our expert author’s guide to things to do in North East Scotland is a handy tool for all travellers.

Planning a British getaway but unsure where to start? This list of eight tried and tested things to do in North East Scotland is here to help. From lighthouses to nature reserves, there really is something for everyone. 

Plan your trip to North East Scotland

For more information, see Rebecca Gibson’s guide to North East Scotland :

When travelling in the UK from overseas, don’t forget to pack an international travel adapter, plenty of layers, a waterproof coat and a good strong pair of boots.

The best things to do in North East Scotland

Rspb fowlsheugh.

The name of this clifftop nature reserve, 4½ miles south of Stonehaven, comes from a Scots word literally translating to ‘bird cliff.’ A narrow path hugs a cliff edge where over 130,000 seabirds nest on crevices and rock ledges during spring and summer, including guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, kittiwakes and puffins. The adjacent grassland habitat attracts meadow pipits, skylarks, linnets and a variety of butterflies and moths foraging among sea thrift and sea campion.

Walk right from the car park and follow the road for 160yds until you reach a wooden puffin beside the information board. Steps cut into the hill lead up to the unprotected cliffs – this is definitely a place to watch your step! During summer, the sights, sounds and smells of thousands of breeding seabirds are overwhelming. You can walk for about a mile along an out-and-back trail to a tiny hide at the far end, ideal for sheltering in less desirable weather.

East Aquhorthies Stone Circle

Easily accessible and wonderfully complete, East Aquhorthies is one of the North East’s best-preserved examples of a recumbent stone circle. Measuring 64ft in diameter, it dates from the Bronze Age and consists of nine solitary standing stones, a broad recumbent and two upright flankers.

A low, moss-fuzzed stone wall surrounds the circle, thought to have been added perhaps as recently as the 19th century. Each stone is a different shape – some finish with tapered points while others are broad and blunt. Each is deeply encrusted with blooms of white, yellow and mint green lichens.

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

An integral part of Aberdeen’s identity is its maritime heritage, and there’s no better place to learn about this than the Maritime Museum. Located close to the quay on the other side of Union Street from the art gallery, it’s housed within three adjacent but very different buildings: Provost Ross’s House (1593), which has creaky floorboards and low doorways; the former Trinity Congregational Church (1877); and the glass-fronted Link Building (1997).

Exhibits in all three outline Aberdeen’s seafaring history, from trading and shipbuilding to the discovery of North Sea oil and gas. A huge range of memorabilia is on display here, including tiny model ships, silver snuff boxes and even a whale’s eardrum from the regrettable whaling era. Hear stories of the seafaring community’s often bizarre superstitions – while pigs were considered pretty unlucky, mentions of hares or foxes were believed to doom a ship.

Glenlivet Distillery

Visitors are greeted at this distillery, tucked away in the northern end of Glenlivet Estate, with a cosy fireplace and plush armchairs in a luxurious reception area and shop. Golden colours, exposed brick and touches of copper all set the scene for a stylish tour and reflect the honey hues of The Glenlivet’s whiskies, which burst with fruit and spice flavours.

Considering The Glenlivet is one of the world’s best-selling Scottish whiskies, with millions of bottles sold every year, visitors will be impressed by how local produce and sustainability remain firmly implanted in the company’s principles. During the Original Distillery Tour, you will learn how the barley is locally grown, the oak casks come from Isla Cooperage in Keith and the water is sourced from a well five minutes up the hill – the same water used by founder George Smith in the 19th century.

Pitmedden Garden

This is one of the most distinctive gardens not just in the North East but arguably the whole of Scotland, yet it’s vastly overlooked. Thoughtfully designed to replicate its 17th-century origins, Pitmedden is a must for anyone who enjoys immaculate flower beds, shady orchards and little perching lions sculpted from stone.

One of the garden’s star attributes is the set of large rectangles called parterres. Within each parterre are vibrant images created from flowers, including a saltire, thistle and coat-of-arms. Bordered by box hedges and segmented by turf paths, the parterres are best viewed from above. At the end of the last garden, accessible through a gate in the stone wall, is an orchard containing pears, plums and 184 varieties of apple.

Fyvie Castle

Winding gravel paths lead up to the front entrance and gardens of creamy pink Fyvie Castle, 12½ miles south of Delgatie. It’s an imposing fortress around 800 years old, surrounded by the River Ythan, stretches of bogland and a small loch. Over the years, it’s swelled in size as different owners made their own contributions.

Join a guided tour to explore the castle and you’ll see an astonishing number of portraits. These include one of the world’s largest collections of works by renowned Scottish artist Sir Henry Raeburn. Fyvie also has one of the finest stone wheel staircases in Scotland. Although tightly coiled like many castle staircases, this one is wide enough for several people to ascend it while standing abreast.

Dunnideer Castle

The ruined castle of Dunnideer stands on top of the Hill of Dunnideer, just under two miles from the small village of Insch, on the western edge of the Garioch. Visible for miles around, its largest remaining wall looks like a 30ft-tall slice of toast with a hole in the middle. Evidence of a settlement dating back to the Iron Age has been found here, but it’s the ruined castle, one of the oldest tower houses in Scotland, that’s the most visible.

From the roadside, the castle appears deceptively close, but the grassy access track from the car park is steep. Luckily there’s plenty of countryside to admire if you need to catch your breath. The ground is also studded with rabbit holes, so watch your feet to avoid any comedy trips.

Covesea Lighthouse

Just over two miles from the centre of Lossie, easily walkable along West Beach, is bright white Covesea Lighthouse. Volunteers offer visitors tours of the structure, leading you up 144 steps and two ladders for a spectacular view north over the Moray Firth.

The lighthouse was designed and built in 1846 by Alan Stevenson, a member of the ‘Lighthouse Stevensons’ family who built most of Scotland’s lighthouses over a period of 150 years. Unfortunately, the one at Covesea is no longer operational but it still makes a wonderful day trip for those seeking a moment of tranquility along the Scottish coast.

More information

For more information, see Rebecca Gibson’s guide to North East Scotland.

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Càrn Aosda is one of the easiest and quickest Munros to climb. You can make an extremely quick ascent using the tracks from the ski-centre but a much less frequented … read more

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} Lochnagar

Taking its name from the lochan set like a dark gem in the spectacular steep-sided corrie, Lochnagar is a mountain defined by the steep and clefted cliffs that surround its … read more

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} Glas Maol

Glas Maol is a 1,068m Munro mountain in the Scottish Highlands. It's the highest of the six Munros that sit in this natural circuit, east of the Glenshee Ski Centre. Its summit features a trig pillar and a large shelter.

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} Mayar

Mayar is typical of the Munros of the Mounth, its summit being rounded and fairly undistinguished. It is easily linked with neighbouring Driesh in what is a popular hike for … read more

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} Tom Buidhe

Tom Buidhe is a 3,140-foot (957 m) Munro in the Scottish Highlands. It's the smallest of the six Munros that make up a natural circuit, east of the Glenshee Ski … read more

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} Mount Keen

Mount Keen is a Munro mountain of Scotland that stands alone in the east. For that reason it's commonly hill walker's first or last Munro as it's a long but … read more

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} Broad Cairn

Broad Cairn is a rocky Munro summit above Loch Muick in Royal Deeside. Sitting above undulating grassy plains and amongst other Munro peaks, the descent down Broad Cairn's boulderfield will test tired legs.

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Aberdeenshire , Fife , Itineraries

One week in north east scotland: itinerary for aberdeenshire and fife.

The northeast of Scotland boasts stunning castles, endless sandy beaches, picturesque lighthouses and quaint harbour towns like no other region in Scotland. Go off the beaten track with this North East Scotland Itinerary including the best routes for Aberdeenshire and Fife, useful travel tips and plenty of inspiration for your trip.

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

North East Scotland lies mostly off the beaten track. While the majority of visitors head west and north to discover the Highlands and islands, the east sees significantly fewer visitors.

This itinerary for North East Scotland covers Aberdeenshire , Fife , Dundee and parts of Perthshire . I followed this itinerary on a road trip with my mum in June 2016, but have added a few more tips and stops since returning to some of the locations.

Using this itienrary, you will…

• visit some of Scotland’s exciting cities (Aberdeen + Dundee),
• and relaxed seaside towns such as St Andrews, Stonehaven and Crovie,
• hike in the Cairngorms National Park,
• discover the Fife coast,
• follow the Scottish Castle Trail and
• visit an official Royal Residence in the Royal Deeside .

All in one week!

If you love going off the beaten path, you will love this road trip to North East Scotland. Let’s go!

Travelling to Scotland? Get in touch and let me help you plan a trip that is 100% YOU!

North East Scotland Map

Scotland’s east coast has a lot to offer. Up and down the coast, there are fairytale castles and vast sandy beaches, colourful lighthouses and quaint harbour towns, beautiful hiking areas and lots of habitat for Scottish wildlife.

Further inland, the Cairngorm mountains frame lush valleys and serene lochs, farmers grow strawberries and big estates offer castles, adventure parks and tranquil woodlands.

Check the map below for all the scenic stops, activities and places mentioned in this post.

Travel Guide: North East Scotland

Getting around north east scotland.

The best way to explore the northeast of Scotland is by car . It gives you more flexibility and allows you to reach even the most remote beaches, hikes and villages.

However, it is possible to explore Scotland’s northeast coast by public transport too – you might just have to slow down a little and choose places that are easy to reach.

The train lines that connect Aberdeen with Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen stop for example in Leuchars (near St Andrews), Dundee, Stonehaven and Elgin, which are all beautiful places to visit.

There is also an extensive bus network in Aberdeenshire and Fife, which makes it possible to explore further off the beaten track.

You could also spend a few days in Aberdeen and book guided day trips to visit castles and other sites in the area with tour companies like Rabbie’s .

Nervous about driving? Learn about UK traffic rules & etiquette with the useful online guide by Tripiamo .

How many days do you need in North East Scotland?

This itinerary covers one week (7 days) which is a good amount of time to get an overview of what the northeast of Scotland has to offer.

If you can, I recommend spending a few additional days to explore more in-depth. 

For example, if you have 8 days in Scotland, add a day in northern Aberdeenshire (Banff), spend a night in Aberdeen to explore the city more in-depth or add a night in Edinburgh if you’ve never been before.

While distances are not incredibly overwhelming, driving can take up a significant amount of time, as many of the minor roads are winding and narrow. You will find yourself stop a lot for sights along the way.

You might also like:  How to plan the perfect trip to Scotland

Why should you visit Scotland’s northeast?

Let me ask you: why not? 

The west of Scotland is without a doubt the more famous part of the country – who has not heard about Loch Ness, Glencoe , the Jacobite Steam Train or the Isle of Skye ? But these regions can also be incredibly busy, especially during the summer.

The east coast offers a lot more tranquillity and a feeling of exploring off the beaten path.

The mountains in the west work their magic on the east – the east coast is blessed with a much drier climate, lush and fertile landscapes and beautiful sandy beaches.

Here are some of the highlights you can expect on the northeast coast of Scotland:

• Less rain , drier climate.
• The Scottish Castle Trail with 19 castles & many more castles on top of that.
• Endless sandy beaches along the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail and the Fife Coastal Path.
• Stunning lighthouses with a fascinating history .
• Delicious whisky from the Speyside whisky distilleries .
• Hiking for all levels in the Cairngorms National Park .
• Golf and history in  St Andrews .  
• The freshest produce from local farmers .
• Thriving cities like Aberdeen and Dundee .
• Quaint seaside towns and fishing villages up and down the coast.
• Lovely locals who are passionate about their beautiful regions.

I could go on and on! Many of these things are reasons to visit all of Scotland, but why not try something new and go off the beaten track?

Not sure if this is the best itinerary for you? Find out how to choose the ideal Scotland itinerary !

One Week Itinerary for North East Scotland

Day 1: from glasgow the royal deeside.

Our journey began in Glasgow, although you could just as easily leave from Edinburgh or either of the airports. If you leave in the late morning or early afternoon, you will have plenty of time for stops on the way to the Royal Deeside.

We made our way through Perthshire and the southern Cairngorms to the lush valley of the Royal Deeside.

Stop 1: Dunkeld

The Highland village of Dunkeld is a popular stop along the A9 road. There are several bakeries and restaurants in the village – I recommend the Atholl Arms Hotel for great vegan options. 

The grounds of Dunkeld Cathedral make for a lovely walk, but the real highlight is The Hermitage just outside the village (parking fee, FREE for National Trust for Scotland members. Join here! ). A 15-minute walk from the car park leads you to the stunning Black Linn Falls which look particularly stunning from the balcony of Ossian’s Hall – an Outlander site in the Highlands .

Stop 2: Detour to Pitlochry

A little further up the A9, stop in Pitlochry, a bustling Victorian town with a lively high street, two nearby whisky distilleries ( Blair Atholl and Edradour ) and lovely walks along the River Tummel. For tea and cakes head to Hettie’s Tearoom .

Nearby Blair Castle & Gardens is well worth the detour.

Plan a trip to  Perthshire to see the autumn colours !

Stop 3: Into the Cairngorms National Park

From Pitlochry make your way through the hills towards Glenshee and the Cairnwell Pass road – one of the highest mountain roads in the UK.

Stop to see the iconic Devil’s Elbow hairpin bend which is still visible next to the main road about 1 km south of the Glenshee ski centre. 

You are now deep in the Cairngorm mountains and thus the Cairngorms National Park. The road descends down at the other side of the pass and soon you will reach the beautiful valley of the Royal Deeside.

Overnight in Dinnet (2 nights)

We booked 2 nights at the Loch Kinord Hotel in Dinnet, a traditional Scottish hotel with a lovely beer garden and an on-site restaurant.

Royal Deeside Travel Essentials Where to stay: Loch Kinord Hotel in Dinnet, Book it here ! Food & drink: Light lunches from The Bothy in Ballater, dinner at the on-site restaurant at Loch Kinord Hotel and picnic supplies from Deeside Deli Shop and Chalmers Bakery in Ballater.  Things to do: Balmoral Castle , Muir of Dinnet walking trails, hiking in the Cairngorms National Park , bicycle hire , other castles on the Scottish Castle Trail .

Day 2: Explore the Royal Deeside

We spent a whole day discovering the Royal Deeside, the lush valley along the River Dee. 

Stop 1: Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle has been an official Royal Residence since 1852 when Prince Albert bought the estate and re-modelled the castle for Queen Victoria. 

She had fallen in love with Scotland and particularly this region on her trips north, and together they built a stunning castle with many fascinating gardens (flowers, vegetables, leisure).

I highly recommend visiting first thing in the morning to beat the crowds. You can’t visit the inside of the castle, but the audio-guided tour leads around the beautiful castle gardens and to a ballroom in a side-wing of the castle. 

Find out what else to consider & expect when visiting Balmoral Castle . 

Stop 2: Lunch in Ballater

Back in the day, Queen Victoria would have arrived in the charming village of Ballater on the train from Aberdeen and taken a coach from there to her castle. Naturally, Ballater became a popular holiday town for anyone who wanted to spend their summers near the Queen.

We visited Ballater for a short walk through the village and lunch at The Bothy .

We also picked up treats from Deeside Deli and Chalmers Bakery for the afternoon.

Stop 3: Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve

The Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve near the village of Dinnet offers many family-friendly trails and picnic areas. 

Loch Kinord Trail is around 4 miles long and very easy to walk. It circuits the lake, leads through bright birch woodlands, up and down the gentle hills of the lakeshore, and across gorgeous meadows covered in flower carpets and rabbit burrows.

Another popular like at the Muir of Dinnet leads to Burn o Vat, a deep “bowl” that was carved by rain and water over thousands of years. You can enter the bowl through a short tunnel and inside you’ll find a hidden waterfall. It’s truly a hidden gem.

Other Things to do in the Royal Deeside

Scottish Castle Trail: You could visit more castles on the Scottish Castle Trail. From Ballater, it is a 35-minute drive to Craigievar Castle or 45 minutes to Crathes Castle , which are both FREE for National Trust for Scotland members.

Cairngorms National Park: For more strenuous hikes with more rewarding views, choose a more challenging trail in the Cairngorms National Park . 

Hire Bikes: Rent bicycles from one of the bike rental shops in Ballater ( Bike Station or Cycle Highlands ) and follow the trail along the old railway which brought Queen Victoria and the British aristocracy to Ballater in the 1850s.

Day 3: Road trip along the East Coast

Instead of taking the fastest route to our next stop on the northeast coast, we opted for the longer, yet much more scenic drive along the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail. 

The coast of North East Scotland is dotted with beautiful beaches and picturesque lighthouses, a real paradise for beach bums and photographers. We spend the entire day on the road with multiple stops.

Stop 1: Old Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a bustling city – the third biggest in Scotland. You could spend an entire day here – and I highly encourage you to do so, if you can add another day to your Scotland trip. There is a lot to do and see, but because this itinerary focuses more on scenery and small towns, we decided to only include a short stop in Old Aberdeen.

Old Aberdeen is a historic part of Aberdeen and home to the main campus of the University of Aberdeen.

While the buildings of the university are beautiful to look at, it is also important to acknowledge the ways in which the institution has benefitted from wealth related to historic slavery. You read more about this here and here .

Park your car near St Machar’s Cathedral (paid street parking), a marvellous Gothic church with twin towers and a beautiful nave. From there, take a walk down to the main building of the University and discover the small cobbled lanes around the campus. 

For a small scenic detour, drive on to the Brig o’ Balgownie which lies in a charming historic village within Aberdeen.

Stop 2: Balmedie Beach

Balmedie Beach lies just north of Aberdeen and is easily accessible by car. We made our way to the sea through the high sand dunes and spent some time walking up and down the beach, watching dogs play in the waves and digging our toes into the sand.

Stop 3: Rattray Head Lighthouse

The iconic Rattray Head Lighthouse had been on my bucket list for ages. Technically, it is a “rock house”, built on a rock off the shore. 

During high tide (which we were lucky enough to witness), the lighthouse is surrounded by the crashing waves of the Atlantic – it’s a brilliant photo op! At low tide, you can walk much closer to the lighthouse.

To reach Rattray Head you definitely need a car and some guts, as the beach’s lies at the end of a very bumpy single track road with huge potholes and few passing places. The view was worth the effort though!

Stop 4: The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses

The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses is located in the small fishing town of Fraserburgh which sits at the north-easternmost point of Scotland. 

The museum exhibits an impressive collection of lighthouse lenses, some twice as wide in diameter as I am tall, and tells the story of the Stevenson family who built over 93 lighthouses in 150 years. 

Make sure you join a tour of the old lighthouse of Kinnaird Head which is included in your museum ticket – they begin every hour between 11 am and 4 pm during the summer. 

From the top of the lighthouse, you don’t only get an amazing view, but you also learn more about the hard labour it took to keep the ships at sea safe before lighthouses were automated.

Overnight in Banff (1 night)

We arrived in Banff just in time for a wander through the historic town centre, sunset at the harbour and a well-deserved dinner after a packed day on the road.

We spent only one night in Banff, but if you can, I recommend staying two. 

That would give you more time to visit local attractions such as Duff House (FREE for Historic Environment Scotland members & Explorer Pass holders) with or the Museum of Banff .

You would also have an additional day to explore the north coast of Aberdeenshire, the Moray Coast and the Speyside. You could visit scenic places such as Portsoy, Cullen and Bow Fiddle Rock in Portknockie.

Banff Travel Essentials Where to stay: Carmelite House Hotel , Book it here ! Food & drink: The Aul’ Fife (Scottish cuisine) Things to do: Duff House , Museum of Banff , Crovie , Cullen and Bow Fiddle Rock on the Moray Coast .

Day 4: From Banff to St Andrews

Time to head south again and make our way to the final region on our itinerary – the Kingdom of Fife. But first, a few more iconic landmarks in Aberdeenshire.

Stop 1: Crovie

Crovie is a tiny village nestled against the cliffs of northern Aberdeenshire. And when I say “nestled against the cliffs”, I mean literally clinging on to the steep rocks. 

The village is built on a very narrow strip of land between the cliffs and the sea. There is a narrow road that leads down to the small pier (only to be used by locals), but there is no road in the village – just a narrow footpath in front of the houses.

That makes a trip to Crovie a true adventure not to be missed.

Stop 2: Stonehaven + Dunnottar Castle

Dunnottar Castle is an iconic ruin on the Scottish Castle Trail. It sits on a headland that is connected to the mainland by just a narrow strip of land. On the other three sides, it is surrounded by the sea. 

The cliffs of the headland are steep and waves crash relentlessly against them – the castle seems impenetrable. 

Yet, the ruin is open to the public and one of the most fascinating castles to visit in Scotland.

The best way to reach the castle is on foot from the nearby seaside town of Stonehaven. The walk along the coast to Dunnottar Castle takes about 40 minutes to one hour.

Before or after,  stop for lunch at Molly’s Cafe Bar and ice cream from Aunt Betty’s (vegan options available at both).

You might also like:  15 awesome things to do in Stonehaven

Stop 3: Dundee

Dundee is an underdog among Scottish cities, but ever since the opening of the V&A Dundee no one can argue any longer – it is a great idea to stop in Dundee. If only for a few hours.

Visit the V&A Dundee (FREE) and the RRS Discovery , follow the open/close street art trail and grab some coffee and cake at one of the many cafes in town.

From Dundee, it’s a half-hour drive to St Andrews.

Overnight in St Andrews (2 nights)

We stayed in my partner’s family’s caravan at East Sands. Caravans are available to rent at the St Andrews Holiday Park, but there is a 4-night minimum. There are many hotels and B&Bs around St Andrews that also provide shorter stays.

St Andrews Travel Essentials Where to stay: St Andrews Holiday Park (min. stay 4 night); Find more accommodation in St Andrews ! Food & drink: Doll’s House (French-Scottish cuisine), Zizzi (Italian), St Andrews Brewing Company (burgers), Fisher & Donaldson (patisserie – fudge doughnuts), Jannetta’s (ice cream), Keys Bar (traditional pub), The Cellar Bar (bar & live music). Things to do: St Andrews Cathedral and Castle , St Rule’s Tower , East Sands beach, historic Old Course .

Day 5: Explore St Andrews and Fife

There are many things to do in St Andrews – it definitely pays off looking at my travel guide for St Andrews for a full list of options.

I recommend spending half the day exploring St Andrews and then heading to the fishing villages on the East Neuk of Fife in the afternoon.

Things to do in St Andrews

Highlights in St Andrews include the ruins of the Cathedral (FREE for Historic Environment Scotland members &  Explorer Pass holders), climbing St Rule’s Tower for views of the town, St Andrews Castle (FREE for Historic Environment Scotland members &  Explorer Pass holders), grabbing a fudge doughnut from Fisher & Donaldson or ice cream from Jannetta’s  and heading to East Sands beach for a wander. 

If you love gold, make sure to also visit the historic Old Course .

East Neuk of Fife

The fishing villages on the East Neuk are Crail, Anstruther, Pittenweem, St Monans and Elie – and one is more scenic than the other. Here you will find fresh fish & chips (for example at the Anstruther Fish Bar), scenic harbours with colourful boats, ruins like Newark Castle or Lady Janet Anstruther’s Tower and endless beautiful beaches between.

You can even walk from Elie to Anstruther in 2-3 hours in order to experience the Fife Coastal Path at its best.

Listen to ‘Step by Step’ – a travel story about hiking from Elie to Anstruther!

Other things to do in Fife

Of course, there are many more things to do in Fife and near St Andrews, such as visiting a whisky distillery ( Kingsbarns or Eden Mill ), visiting Outlander sites such as Falkland or hiking in the Lomond Hills Regional Park.

Day 6: St Andrews to South Queensferry

South Queensferry is a great place to end this itinerary. From there, it is an easy journey into central Edinburgh if you have time left at the end of your trip. Or just a 15-minute drive to Edinburgh airport – handy for those pesky early morning flights.

Even though it takes just one hour to drive from St Andrews to South Queensferry, I recommend spending the majority of the day “on the road” – there is plenty to do and see.

Stop 1: Isle of May Boat Trip

During the summer (mid-April to mid-August), I highly recommend you return to Anstruther in order to join a boat trip to the Isle of May . The island is home to a thriving puffin colony.

Standard trips take 4 to 4.5 hours and include 2.5 to 3 hours on the island, which is plenty of time to see puffins and take a million photos.

Stop 2: Dunfermline

Dunfermline is the ancient capital of Scotland and Scottish Kings were crowned and buried here for centuries.

The last King to be buried in Dunfermline was Robert the Bruce, whose grave can be visited at Dunfermline Abbey . Legend has it that his heart, however, was buried at Melrose Abbey in the Scottish Borders.

Take some time for a walk at Pittencrieff Park, stop for afternoon tea at the Carnegie Library and Galleries and explore the old Abbey (FREE).

Listen to ‘ Yours to Explore ‘ – my travel podcast about Dunfermline and West Fife.

Stop 3: South Queensferry

Eventually, you will cross the new Firth Road Bridge and reach South Queensferry. 

The new road bridge only opened in 2017 (hence it’s still in construction on our photos), but the most iconic one might just be the bright red railway bridge, which is a masterpiece of Scottish engineering. 

We spent the late afternoon strolling through the quaint village of South Queensferry and dipped in and out of bars and restaurants along the High Street which all offered magnificent views of the bridges.

Overnight in South Queensferry (1 night)

We booked a night at the Dakota which lies just outside the village centre, but still in easy walking distance to the high street. 

From here it was just a 15-minute drive to Edinburgh Airport, which made it the perfect final hotel before my mum’s flight home.

Listen to ‘ Icons of the Kingdom ‘ – my travel podcast about a winter trip to Fife .

South Queensferry Travel Essentials Where to stay: Dakota Hotel , Book it here , Parkhead House B&B in Newton Food & Drink: Antico Bar at Orocco Pier Hotel has a lovely view of the bridges and lovely food (incl. a vegan menu). Also, check out The Little Bakery, Scotts Restaurant by the marina or The Fat Pheasant in Newton.

Day 7: Departure Day

Time to pack your bags and head back to the airport – or maybe you have some more time to explore Scotland a bit longer? 

How to extend this trip:

Day 8: Extend your stay in Banff to 2 nights in order to explore more of northern Aberdeenshire, the Moray Coast or the Speyside.

Day 9: Spend a night in Aberdeen to see more of the city.

Day 10: Visit Edinburgh or other nearby hidden gems such as Linlithgow Palace, the Kelpies or Blackness Castle (Outlander site).

A trip to Scotland does not necessarily have to visit the Highlands and Islands. Exploring North East Scotland can be just as rewarding and beautiful as a road trip on the west coast. 

Aberdeenshire and Fife have so much to offer and you will experience a completely different side to Scotland. With this itinerary and plenty of ideas for things to do and see, all that is left to do is to book your flight and go!

PIN THIS POST FOR LATER:

Disclaimer: VisitScotland provided my mum and me with a rental car free of charge and two ASVA cards which grant free entrance to many of Scotland’s visitor attractions, including Balmoral Castle, St Andrews Cathedral & Castle and the Lighthouse museum in Fraserburgh.

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52 thoughts on “ One week in North East Scotland: Itinerary for Aberdeenshire and Fife ”

I am so thrilled to have found your blog. My daughter and I are visiting Scotland (we are from New Zealand so about as far away as you can get!) in July for 8 days and we had already decided to concentrate on the East Coast. Having read all your posts and seen the photos I am so glad this is going to be the area we explore. I can feel it beckoning us. We will be arriving in Edinburgh and departing from Glasgow and so hope to do a bit of a loop but not quite sure what route we should take? We have a car. I have accommodation booked in Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Glasgow but have 1 night yet unbooked. Any suggestions? Thanks so much

Hi Louise, I really enjoyed the route I describe in this post. We started and finished in Glasgow, but you can do the same if you start in Edinburgh. Take a look at this post also: https://watchmesee.com/blog/aberdeenshire-itinerary-three-days/ You could add a stay on the way from Edinburgh to Aberdeen – somewhere in Fife or near Dundee; or on the way from Aberdeen towards Glasgow, maybe around Aviemore, Pitlochry or even Stirling. I hope you have a fantastic trip to the north east of Scotland 🙂

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I’m so glad I stumbled on your blog… I’m planning my fantasy road trip to Scotland and am trying to combine some ancestor research while there, which means north and east coasts. Will have to include the castle trail for me, and the distillery stops for Dear Husband. Thank you!

It’s a great area – and the weather is usually better! I just returned from a week in the Speyside area – definitely try to visit Cullen and Aberlour! Delnashaugh Hotel by Ballindalloch was my favourite! Have fantastic trip!!

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Oh my gosh, east Scotland looks beautiful! Also, this itinerary is SO detailed, I couldn’t believe it. Thanks for creating your own interactive map – I’ll definitely be returning to this post when I make it up to Scotland!

Let me know when you’re up that way – would be lovely to connect!

I’m Scottish but have never gone further up that coast than Aberdeen. I need to set that right – and I like the sound of less rain!

It’s so beautiful up there! I can’t wait to return to the north coast this June, and hoping to do another road trip around the North East 250 soon too!! It’s definitely worth checking out – even for Scots!

Sounds amazing. I’ve been wanting to go to Scotland for a while. Will have to get there.

I would love to see more of Scotland so this sounds like a great way to spend a week. It’s nice to know that the east is less rainy and less touristy, but there is still a lot to see

It definitely shows you a different side of Scotland, and leads you to areas not many people will know. You get it all to yourself!!

The East and North coasts of Scotland get neglected by tourists. It’s a shame because there are so many nice places to see, but also rather good because it means I get them to myself!

True – that’s the sunny flipside of everyone blindly migrating to Skye and Loch Ness (also pretty places, just way too busy during the summer)!

I love this post – I’d have never thought to do a road trip through the North East. I’m getting married just outside Edinburgh in September and have been looking for a good road trip itinerary not too far away as we only have around a week to enjoy our honeymoon. Will definitely keep this in mind!

I think your honeymoon would be the perfect occasion to drive this route! With all the castles, sandy beaches and quaint little towns, it’s super romantic 🙂 Have a fab wedding and honeymoon!!

Errr those beach shots! Wow, would have guessed they were anywhere but Scotland. Keep doing what you do Kathi 🙂

I know, it looks nothing like the typical image of Scotland! That’s what I love about this route so much 🙂

I hope you had fun in Scotland <3 Beautiful country indeed <3

Your photos are stunning! I still haven’t been to Scotland so I’ll save this for later. I was planning to go there when I went to Northern Ireland but then decided to leave it. Next time!

Sometimes it’s better to just focus on one destination – even if it looks so close 😉 You’ll have to come back though – it’s too beautiful to miss!!

God, Scotland is so beautiful. I’ve never thought about doing this route before – hadn’t heard of the castle trail either, so I’ll have to look into it more. Such a shame that people who live in the UK (i.e. me) don’t explore more in our own backyard. Thanks for this great post!

That side of the country is brilliant – not many tourists, but so much to do!! Definitely check it out – it’s like its own little world!

This looks awesome, Kathi! I am not quite ready to return to Scotland yet but I can start to see another trip on the horizon. If only so we can finally meet 🙂

We should drive the North East 250 together!!!

I did a more typically touristic month in Scotland a couple years ago. It was magnificent. And now you’ve made me want to go back even more and see the other side of the country! What a gorgeous looking trip. Thanks for all the inspiring photos and helpful tips!

I’m glad you enjoyed it! The west of Scotland is gorgeous – but yeah, to be more off the beaten track, the east is inevitable! It’s so different, but so beautiful!

Fantastic Itinerary! Will be saving this for later as I want to do this maybe this year!

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Thank you for this! My son is starting university at Aberdeen in September, so I’ll have four years of opportunities to explore Scotland. I’m so looking forward to it!

All the best for your son – studying Aberdeen university is great, and so beautiful 🙂 Hope you get to visit often and see as much as you can!

Beautifully written!.. Duntottar Castle seems very interesting to me. Do you think I would get good views of the castle with drone?..

Oh, absolutely! It’s right by the coast, almost like a little island – I could imagine aerial views are amazing! Make sure you’re allowed to use drones in the area, but I think it’s fine!

Absolutely loved the places you have highlighted. I have been to Scotland twice, once to the Inverness region and once to Isle of Skye after spending a few days in Edinburgh. Now looking at your pictures, I can’t wait to go back again but this time to the North East.

Love to hear that you’d like to come back! There’s just never enough time to see everything. Let me know of you need any more tips!

Great post! There’s so much to see here, I’m so glad you liked it!

This is awesome! It never occurred to me that there were beautiful beaches in Scotland, and Duntottar Castle looks absolutely amazing. I would definitely go to these places. Nice to see another side of Scotland.

There are so many beaches here – not like, sunbathing beaches, but warm enough for a barefoot walk! The islands on the west coast also have beaches, that look almost Caribbean in the sunshine, but the weather is definitely more predictable on the east coast!

Great post for learning more about off-the-beaten-path Scotland. It sounds like you had a few long driving days on this itinerary — what was your typical amount of time in the car each day?

Hm, that’s a good question. I’d say it wasn’t so bad; driving from the Royal Deeside to Banff definitely felt the longest, but we stopped in three locations on the way and spend at least an hour in each. The drive to Rattray Head off the main road took about 45 minutes each way because it was a rather adventurous dirt road for most of the way… I was knackered in the evening, hence no sunset pictures at Bowfiddle Rock… I think no day was more than 3.5-4 hours pure driving time! You could probably drive faster routes, but we drove along a lot of little country roads to see more of the landscape!

Great post! I really love how you focused on the Northeastern coast of Scotland! Like you said yourself, people usually hear a lot about the Highlands and Isles, so thank you for showing me more of Scotland! Your photos are wonderful!

I’m glad I could show you a corner of Scotland you don’t know so much about – that’s exactly what I hope to do more 🙂 Thanks for taking the time to stop by!

What an epic way to see Scotland! Makes me sad to see how many amazing areas that I missed on my Scotland road trip.

One trip is never enough <3

Think you need some proof reading on your article!! It’s a MINE under the Castle in St.Andrews, not a MIN! And to say there is not much to do in Anstruther….did you miss the extremely interesting Scottish Fisheries Museum at the harbour?? It’s not even the best Fish and Chips. Cromars in St.Andrews takes some beating but the Anstruther Fish Bar is still very popular, granted! Queensferry… It’s the Forth BRIDGES, not BRIDES!! I’m sure you will be back in Fife at some point. Kellie Castle outside Pittenweem and Falkland Palace in Falkland are both stunner Haste Ye back!

Thank you for pointing out the two typos – I don’t always catch them all, seeing that I run this blog in my spare time while working two jobs and English isn’t my first language. Thanks also for the tips regarding Kellie Castle and Falkland Palace – I hope to return to Fife at some point!

However, I think you need to consider how your comment comes across. Just because you don’t think they’re the best fish & chips (which I never said, if you read my words carefully), doesn’t make the one in Anstruther any worse in my partner’s experience (who recommended this particular place). I haven’t personally tasted either chippy in the area as I was vegetarian at the time of the trip. I am vegan now. You can maybe understand that a fisheries museum wouldn’t be something I would necessarily put on my itinerary considering my dietary choices – I found walking by the crab traps bad enough…

Awwww!! This post makes me miss home! Next time your up that way head to Portsoy for the best ice cream you will ever eat! 🙂

Will add that to my ever growing bucket list for Scotland 🙂 Thanks!

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North East Scotland

• 2 Understand
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.2 By train
• 3.3 By road
• 3.4 By boat
• 4 Get around

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North East Scotland is the low-lying eastern region of Scotland bounded by the Firth of Forth to the south and the Moray Firth to the north; its cities are Aberdeen , Dundee and Perth . It's not an administrative region, but has a distinct cultural identity, and (especially in rural Aberdeenshire) dialects that are distinctive and to English ears anything but distinct.

Most visitors will approach from south to north.

The defining feature of the northeast is that it incorporates both lowland and highland cultures and includes the geological fault line between the lowlands and highlands that runs diagonally across Scotland from Helensburgh near Glasgow to Stonehaven near Aberdeen. So the region has fertile farmland as well as mountainous areas, including the Cairngorms; it has good overland routes, and is now well connected to the economies of the south. Cattle, fishing and knitwear are the traditional industries but in the 20th century its fortunes rose with the North Sea oil and gas industries. Inland are the Grampian mountains (old, rounded granite domes, quite unlike the spiky peaks of the west) with forests and upland heaths. Deeside hosts some of the oldest Highland Games in Scotland. Queen Victoria was fond of this region and built a luxurious castle at Balmoral: she chose well. The area is renowed for its castles, which include the castles of Glamis, Craigievar, Crathes, Dunnotar, Slains and Fyvie, all of which are said to be haunted.

For Fife, Perth and Dundee, use 55.948 -3.364 1 Edinburgh Airport ( EDI   IATA ). It has a good range of flights across Europe, from London and elsewhere in UK; and it's west of the city so you can connect without getting embroiled in city traffic. Take the direct Jetbus from the airport to Halbeath Interchange for bus connections across Fife, or to Inverkeithing for trains north via Kirkcaldy and Leuchars (for St Andrews) to Dundee and Aberdeen. Some trains for Perth also run via Inverkeithing, but some don't: take the airport bus or tram to Haymarket where all northbound services call. With a hire car, turn west and within ten minutes you're crossing the new Forth Bridge into Fife, and Perth and Dundee are about an hour away.

You're unlikely to use Dundee Airport ( DND   IATA ). It has a daily flight from London Stansted but that's all.

For Aberdeenshire and Moray, use 57.2 -2.204 2 Aberdeen Airport ( ABZ   IATA ). There's a reasonable selection of flights from Europe and London. Onward public transport is good towards Aberdeen and the coast, but you'll want a car to explore north.

For Elgin and the western part of Moray, use 57.542 -4.047 3 Inverness Airport ( INV   IATA ) which has limited flights from Europe and London.

The East Coast main line follows the coast, spanning the Forth and the Tay by spectacular bridges, so the main cities are well connected to central Scotland and England. Trains from London Kings Cross (via Peterborough, York and Newcastle) usually involve changing at Edinburgh, but 3 or 4 trains daily continue to Dundee and Aberdeen. The Caledonian Highland Sleeper runs overnight from London Euston to Dundee, Carnoustie, Arbroath, Montrose, Stonehaven and Aberdeen. It serves other stations (eg Perth, on the train portion for Inverness) but in the very early hours of the morning; you'd do better to take the Lowland Sleeper to Edinburgh then a standard daytime train onward. The return southbound times are less inconvenient.

A "loop" train from Edinburgh rattles around Fife, and there are frequent trains from Edinburgh and Glasgow as far north as Aberdeen. A train runs between Aberdeen and Inverness every couple of hours.

The main road from the south is motorway standard as far as Perth and Dundee. From Edinburgh the M90 leaps across the Firth of Forth (no toll) and heads north to Perth: either bypass Perth on M90 and head into the highlands on A9, or take A90 along Tayside to Dundee, Stonehaven, Aberdeen, Peterhead and Fraserburgh. From Glasgow follow M80 to Stirling then A9 to Perth.

Buses connect the main towns to Edinburgh and Glasgow hourly. Citylink is the main operator but has competition to keep fares low; there's even an electric bus between Edinburgh and Dundee.

Aberdeen has overnight ferries to Orkney and Shetland.

There are no ferries to Scotland from Europe, Faroes or Iceland. The nearest continental connection is from Newcastle-upon-Tyne to IJMuiden near Amsterdam.

Buses and trains are frequent along the well-populated coastal strip as far north as Aberdeen, and from Perth north up the A9 to Dunkeld and Aberfeldy. St Andrews doesn't have a railway but there's a frequent connecting bus to Leuchars railway station. An hourly bus 201 runs up Royal Deeside from Aberdeen to Ballater (for Balmoral) and Braemar. Hourly bus 35 runs from Aberdeen past the airport to Banff, Buckie and Elgin. Public transport is otherwise sparse and you need a car.

• Castles: choose from Blair Atholl, Craigevar, Crathes, Dunnottar, Fraser, Fyvie, Glamis, Kildrummy, Loch Leven, and innumerable small battered stumps.
• Palaces and grand mansions: choose from Balmoral, Culross, Falkland, Haddo House, Scone . . .
• Old fishing villages: along the Fife coast are Elie, Pittenweem and Crail; north of Dundee find Arbroath, Montrose, Stonehaven and Peterhead. Clinging to the region's cold north shoulder are Gardenstown, Portsoy and Banff.
• Glens: Glendevon and Gleneagles, the Tay valley, Glenshee and Glenisla, Deeside and more . . . anywhere except dreary modern Glenrothes.

• Golf: the renowned courses are at St Andrews and Carnoustie, but there dozens more.
• Skiing: there are centres at Glenshee and Lecht. They're small and with unreliable snow.
• Aberdeen and Dundee have the best range; in small towns your best bet will be bar food. The posh hotels have fine dining.
• The Forfar bridie hails from Forfar . It's a triangular shortcut pastry, crimped at the edge, and filled with mince meat but not potato.
• The Arbroath smokie is smoked haddock, a speciality of Arbroath .
• Cullen skink is a rich creamy broth of smoked haddock, potato and onion, traditionally from Cullen in Moray.
• Pubs are in the larger towns; in small villages may just have the hotel bar. A legendary legal judgement in Forfar gave cows the right to free beer, but it's difficult to enforce.
• Malt whisky: the best known distilleries are around Dufftown in Moray, but with an estimated 126 Scotch Whisky distilleries across Scotland, you'll seldom be far from one. Only a minority are open to the public, and an overlapping minority market a "single malt", but most of the output is blended into the various commercial brands. Those actively in production in 2017 just in this region alone are: Aberargie, Aberfeldy, Aultmore, Balvenie, BenRiach, Benrinnes, Benromach, Blair Athol, Brackla, Braeval, Cardhu, Cragganmore, Craigellachie, Daftmill, Dailuaine, Dufftown, Eden Mill, Edradour, Glenallachie, Glenburgie, Glencadam, Glendronach, Glendullan, Glen Elgin, Glenfarclas, Glenfiddich, Glen Grant, Glen Keith, Glenlivet, Glenlossie, Glen Moray, Glenrothes, Glen Spey, Glentauchers, Glenturret, Inchgower, Kininvie, Knockando, Knock, Linkwood, Lochnagar, Macallan, Macduff, Mannochmore, Miltonduff, Mortlach, Royal Brackla, Roseisle, Speyburn, Strathisla, Strathmill, Tamdhu, Tamnavulin, Tomintoul, and Tormore. Glen Moray is produced in huge volumes and is often available at supermarket discount prices. We gonna need a bigger ice-bucket.

A natural loop is to tour along the coast through the northeast, follow the Moray coast road into Inverness, then return south through Speyside and the central Highlands towards Perth.

A shorter loop is via Deeside into Braemar.

The cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow are both must-see destinations.

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North East Scotland

Cairngorm Foothills © TAB

North East Scotland contains the counties of Aberdeenshire, Moray and the Cairngorms National Park. This area is dotted with famous castles such as Blair, Braemar, Corgarff and Victoria's Royal Balmoral. Many fine malt whisky distilleries can also be found along the River Spey in Moray.

The Cairngorm mountain range includes the Cairngorms National Park and the extensive remnants of the ancient Great Caledonian Forest. The Cairngorms form the largest National Park in the UK, covering some 4,500 square km of dramatic and unspoilt countryside. The Park offers a wide range of facilities and attractions, from castles, whisky distilleries and waymarked trails to adventure parks and extreme outdoor sports. In particular, the area near Aviemore is now Britain's principal winter sports region.

Map of North East Scotland

Towns and Villages in North East Scotland

Aberdeenshire: Aberdeen , Ellon, Fraserburgh, Huntley, Inverurie, Peterhead. Moray: Elgin, Fochabers, Forres, Rothes, Lossiemouth.

Attractions in NE Scotland

Braemar Castle | Atholl Museum | Blair Castle | Blair Atholl Watermill | Cairngorm Railway | Grantown Museum | Cairngorm Reindeer Centre | Corgarff Castle | Dalwhinnie Distillery Visitor Centre | Glenlivet Estate | Glenmore Forest Park | Highland Folk Museum | Highland Wildlife Park | Landmark Forest | Rothiemurchus Centre | Strathspey Railway | Tomintoul Museum

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The North East 250: A 3 Day Scotland Road Trip Itinerary

Last updated: September 12, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 26 Comments

Scotland is home to some fantastic road trips, and in our time living in Scotland we have tackled a fair few of them. Some of them have become very popular, like the North Coast 500 , which loops around the northern half of the country.

However, there are many more road trips in Scotland that are worth your time exploring, one of which is the North East 250. This is a 250 mile self-drive road trip that includes Speyside, Aberdeenshire, and the Cairngorms National Park.

It’s home to excellent whisky distilleries, fantastic stretches of coastline, cute villages, museums, castles, golf courses, and epic scenery. It’s also a much less travelled route than some of Scotland’s other road trips, making for an overall fantastic experience.

In today’s post, we’re going to share with you a 3 day North East 250 road trip itinerary, based on our time exploring this route. We’ll share the highlights of the trip, give you recommendations as to where to stay, tell you the best time of year to do the route, and more! Let’s get started.

Table of Contents:

What is the North East 250?

The North East 250 is a self-drive tourist route that runs in a loop, from Glenshee in the Cairngorms National Park, around the Moray Firth coast of Scotland. Along the way it passes through towns like Ballindalloch, Cullen and Fraserburgh, and it also passes right by Aberdeen.

The North East 250 was launched as a driving route for tourists in 2017, to help give visitors to the region a guide to some of the highlights that there are to see here. Hint – there are many!

It’s not a single road, and it follows a variety of routes and is rarely signposted as the North East 250. Some of the attractions are also a little off the main route, but as long as you follow our itinerary you’ll be fine.

Where Does the North East 250 Start?

Being a circular driving route, you can start and end the route at any point. Officially, the three main starting points are Glenshee, Ballindalloch, and Aberdeen Airport. For our guide, we’re going to suggest starting from Aberdeen, as this is easy get to from around the UK by train or plane, and you can compare prices and hire a car on Discover Cars here .

Alternatively, you can also head to Inverness and pick up a car there, in which case we’d suggest starting in either Ballindalloch or Glenshee.

If you’re driving yourself from elsewhere in the UK such as Edinburgh or Glasgow, you will most likely be coming from the south of the country up the A9 road, in which case we’d advise starting around Glenshee.

When we drove the route, we drove up from Edinburgh, and stayed overnight in Braemar before starting our road trip around the NE250.

How Long Does the NE250 take?

The NE250 is 250 miles long, so in theory you could drive it in a day. However this would rather miss the point of driving a scenic driving route. We’d suggest three days would be a good amount of time to drive the NE250, however there is plenty to do here, and you could spend 5 – 7 days slowly exploring the route if you wish.

We’ve driven it a couple of times now and still have yet to stop at all the places of interest to us!

North East 250: A 3 Day Itinerary

We think three days is a good amount of time to drive the North East 250, as it will let you experience many of the highlights of the route and not be too rushed.

If you also want to include Aberdeen, we’d suggest adding at least a day to your itinerary, as there’s a lot to do in the city. We’d highly recommend taking at least one day to visit the city and you can see our detailed guide to things to do in Aberdeen to help you plan your time.

Day 1: Aberdeen – Braemar

We’re going to drive the route clockwise, although as it’s a circular route, you can go in whichever direction you please. We’re going to assume you have three full days for the route, with your adventure starting in the morning of the first day. We’re starting our suggested itinerary from Aberdeen but you can start wherever makes the most sense for you.

The official NE250 route goes right past Aberdeen Airport, so if you want to follow the route religiously you can do so straight away. Essentially, follow the C89C road south to the A93, then turn west.

Today is going to be a day the focuses on cultural highlights, primarily Castles, museums, and galleries – including the Queen’s private residence in Scotland! Pick and choose what is of most interest to you!

Drum Castle

The first stop on your North East 250 adventure is Drum Castle . Originally the seat of Clan Irvine, this castle dates from the 13th century, making it one of the oldest tower houses in Scotland.

As well as tours of the castle itself, you can also visit the castle grounds, which were landscaped in the 18th century.

Crathes Castle

A short drive on from Drum Castle is Crathes Castle . This is a 16th century castle which features a turreted keep building which you can tour, a four acre walled garden, a stunning ancient yew tree hedge, and over 530 acres of grounds to explore.

If you prefer, you can choose to visit only one of the above castles, and spend more time exploring the grounds. It’s up to you – we think both castles are well worth a visit.

Also, both of the above castles are operated by the National Trust for Scotland . As UK residents, we have both bought a National Trust membership, which gives us free access to these properties, and hundreds more across the UK.

Another option, if you’re visiting from overseas, would be to invest in the Scottish Heritage Pass (usually available from April to October, but it seems to vary). This lets you visit over 120 sites across Scotland, including both National Trust for Scotland and Historic Scotland properties, and if you visit a few of the properties on this NE250 itinerary, will easily pay for itself.

Another option is the Historic Scotland Explorer Pass which will let you visit the Historic Scotland properties.

Note that both the above options seem to have variable availability from year to year, so might not always be available for purchase.

Banchory Museum

Just ten minutes drive from Crathes Castle, you will come to Banchory Museum . This is a lovely local museum with lots of information about the local history of the area, including archaeology displays and information on local culture and traditions.

Heading on from Banchory Museum, you will come to the town of Ballater, on the River Dee. This was a Victorian Spa resort, and visitors have been coming here since the Victorian times as a result of the nearby Balmoral Castle, the holiday home of the British Royal Family. You can learn all about the Royal connection in the town’s visitor centre.

The town is also home to cafes and shops, as well as a number of art galleries – Larks Gallery which is in Ballater, and the McEwan Gallery , which is a short drive away.

Balmoral Castle

Your last major stop for the day before heading to your accommodation is going to be the stunning Balmoral Castle , found in far west end of the  Cairngorms National Park .  Since 1852, this has been a private residence of the British Royal Family, who traditionally come here every year in July for a long summer break.

Balmoral was bought by Prince Albert, husband to Queen Victoria, and after purchasing it they constructed the new castle, completed in 1856, which is what visitors can see today. Queen Victoria’s visits to Balmoral were a major factor in increasing tourism to Scotland in general, and the highlands in particular.

The Castle stands on the Balmoral Estate, which spans 50,000 acres of land. For part of the year, before the Queen’s annual visit, the grounds immediately surrounding the palace are open for the public to visit. Visitors can also visit the castle’s ballroom, although the rest of the interior is closed off to visitors.

We really enjoyed visiting Balmoral Castle and wandering the grounds, and highly recommend it to anyone driving the NE250.

Finally, you’re going to head to Braemar, which is where we recommend you spend your first night on the NE250.

Braemar is a lovely village with a number of pubs and hotels (see our recommended options below), as well as attractions that are worth visiting, including Braemar Castle and St Margaret’s Church .

Before you turn in though, we suggest driving through Braemar and on to the Glenshee Ski Centre on the A93 road. This will take you high up into the Cairngorms National Park mountains, and will offer you spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. It’s only around a 10 to 15, and well worth it if the weather is nice.

Where to Stay on the North East 250 Day 1

For your first night on the NE250 we recommend staying in the town of Braemar, which has a variety of accommodation options.

• Braemar Youth Hostel – Those of you on more of a budget, or who prefer a hostel environment, will want to check out the Braemar Youth Hostel. This offers both private and dorm style accommodation, laundry and kitchen facilities, and a friendly communal shared lounge.
• Braemar Lodge Hotel – On our first visit to Braemar we stayed at the 3-star Braemar Lodge Hotel. This is easy walking distance to everything in the village, has an on-site bar and dining, and rooms were comfortable and well priced.
• Craiglea Bed & Breakfast – If you want a Bed and Breakfast, this 3 star option is a good choice, offering a continental breakfast, good location and great value
• Dalmunzie Castle Hotel – If you don’t mind staying outside town, this lovely castle hotel dates from 1510, and is set in a secluded glen around 15 minutes drive from Braemar. We stayed here once as part of a visit to the Cairngorms, and loved it. The rooms are cosy, staff were attentive, and the on-site restaurant was excellent (if a little pricey).

Now – on to day 2!

Day 2: Braemar – Cullen

For the second day of your North East 250 road trip we’re going to start heading north, taking in some of Scotland’s most famous and well known whisky distilleries , as well as some more stunning castles and Moray Firth Coastline!

As a point of note, this day includes multiple whisky distilleries as you’ll be driving through the world famous Speyside whisky distilling region of Scotland (home to over half of Scotland’s whisky distilleries!), along the Malt Whisky Trail. This trail is home to a total of eight distilleries.

We would advise you pick one or two distilleries to visit rather than trying to visit them all – perhaps pick a brand name you are familiar with, or a distillery tour that sounds interesting.

It’s also worth mentioning that the Scottish drink driving laws are very strict, more so than in the rest of the UK. The good news is that most distilleries recognise this, and will give designated drivers their whisky samples in a to-go format.

We’ve included quite a few distilleries so you have an idea of where they fit in the day, but please don’t take this as a suggestion to visit them all as you won’t have time to do anything else!

Corgarff Castle

After leaving Braemar, your first stop today will be Corgarff Castle , a 16th century tower house with a star-shaped outer wall.

This was originally a residence for nobles, but during the Jacobite rebellion it was converted for use as a military base, and used by the “Redcoats”, or British Army soldiers as a base from which to hunt down Jacobites and Jacobite sympathisers.

A visit here will teach you all about life in this remote and isolated castle, and as well as the castle itself, you can see the reconstructed barrack rooms to get an idea of where the soldiers were stationed. The site is managed by Historic Scotland, and an entry fee applies.

The Glenlivet Whisky Distillery

The first distillery on your road trip is The Glenlivet . This distillery has been in almost continuous operation since 1824, and the single malt they produce (six million bottles a year!), is the biggest selling single malt whisky in the USA, as well as the second most popular global brand.

If you were only to visit one or two distilleries today, as suggested, then this one might be on your list. This was the first legal distillery in the Speyside region, and one of the few that has remained in almost continuous operation. It survived the Great Depression, and distillation only stopped during World War 2.

After the war, Britain desperately needed foreign income, and exporting whisky was one of the ways that to generate that income. In fact, so much grain was used for making whisky that bread continued to be rationed until 1948, as the creation of whisky was deemed to be more important!

Naturally, the distillery is open for tours. As with most distilleries, these come at a variety of price points, with more expensive options giving more extensive whisky tasting options. You can also visit the shop and exhibition, and there’s an on site coffee shop.

Ballindalloch Castle

The family home of the Macpherson-Grants since 1546, and still privately owned and lived in by the same family, Ballindalloch Castle is a gorgeous castle estate which is well worth a visit.

As well as touring the castle itself, you can visit the walled garden and wander the wonderfully landscaped gardens, as well as visit the cafe and gift shop.

There’s also a good video on the history of the castle and family who own it, which is worth watching. In fact, Jess literally bumped into Guy Macpherson-Grant, an owner and local businessmen who helped start the North East 250, while touring the castle.

Fees apply for entrance, and as this is a private property. It’s not included on any passes that we know of.

Glenfarclas Distillery

Founded in 1836, Glenfarclas is another popular Speyside whisky distillery which can be visited. The distillery produces over 3 million litres of whisky a year, which range from a 8 year old all the way up to a 40 year old.

Glenfarclas is notable as being one of the first of the distilleries in Scotland to welcome visitors, with their visitor center opening in 1973. As such, they know a thing or two about showing folks around their operation.

Naturally, you can take guided tours of the production facility, try the whisky, and see some of the 68,000 casks of whisky which are maturing on site!

Those of you who love waterfalls will want to stop in the town of Aberlour (where you can also visit the Aberlour distillery of course).

Here, there is 10 minute relatively easy walk (20 minute round trip) that you can take to Linn Falls, which are a pretty two tier waterfall reached via a woodland walk which will take you past the Aberlour distillery. The falls are not huge, but they are pretty and well worth the short walk to reach.

Speyside Way Visitor Center

Also in the town of Aberlour is the Speyside Way Visitor Centre . This is found in the former Aberlour railway station, and is a wonderful little museum that details the history of the town and surrounding area, as well as the Speyside distillery, transport history of the area and more.

It is staffed by wonderfully knowledgeable local volunteers, and there’s loads of useful information to be had here, as well as video presentations on the area.

We highly recommend a stop here and a moment spent chatting with the volunteers, who were very friendly, and insisted on giving us shortbread when we donated to the visitor centre’s upkeep!

Next door to the visitor centre is the Old Station Tea Room, where you can get hot and cold drinks, as well as various snacks – many of which are homemade.

Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre

In order for a whisky to qualify as a single malt scotch whisky, it needs to meet some criteria. It needs to be made exclusively from malted barley, it must be distilled in a pot still at a single distillery, and it needs to be aged for at least three years in an oak cask that can hold no more than 700 litres of whisky.

The third requirement means that there is a need for a lot of barrels in the Scotch whisky production business, and especially so in the Speyside region, where over half of all Scotch whisky is produced.

If you’re interested in learning all about the art of creating these barrels, by a person known as a cooper, then you should head to the Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre .

Every year this cooperage produces and repairs over 150,000 oak casks, which are used both in Speyside and throughout Scotland for maturing Scotch whisky. It’s the only cooperage in the UK that you can visit, and here you can learn all about the traditional art of making a cask from start to finish.

There is a fee to take the tour, and there’s also a cafe and shop on site.

Glenfiddich Distillery

Glenfiddich is the world’s best selling single malt Scotch whisky. Owned by the Grant family since 1886 (who also produce the well-known blended Grant’s whisky), this is a wonderfully photogenic distillery, and certainly one of the more popular distilleries to visit.

We’d say that if you don’t know too much about whisky distilleries, and only wanted to visit one on your NE250 road trip, this should definitely be on your short list.

Glenfiddich is a lovely distillery to visit for a number of reasons. It has unique, swan necked shaped stills, as well as a lovely “old world” feel to its distillery, helped by a number of vintage cars which decorate the property.

During the period of prohibition in the USA, Glenfiddich went against the trend of other distilleries, and stepped up production. Many other distilleries throughout the UK and Ireland closed. This put them in a very strong position when prohibition ended, as they had a good stock of aged whiskies to sell to a suddenly thirsty market.

Glenfiddich is also interesting as they have their own on-site cooperage, as well as a dedicated team of craftspeople and coppersmiths who maintain and build their handmade unique copper stills.

Standard tours run throughout the day and last 90 minutes. They include a tour of the distillery, a look at the maturing whisky in oak casks, and a tasting. There are also a number of longer, more premium tours, for those looking to get more information and try a larger range of more premium Glenfiddich offerings.

As well as tours, visitors can visit the on-site bar, restaurant and gift shop.

That is it for whisky distilleries in this guide, although we have barely scratched the surface of what is available! Certainly, lovers of Scotch whisky will have no trouble scratching that itch in this part of the world.

If whisky is your primary reason for heading up in this direction, we’d suggest that perhaps a whisky tour like this three day Speyside whisky tour from Edinburgh , is going to be a better option than self-driving, as you’ll be able to sample the whisky as you go, and let someone else handle the guiding and driving.

A similar tour is also available as a 1 day tour from Inverness , and a 1 day tour from Aberdeen .

If you are interested in doing the NE250 as part of a tour, we have a section on that further down in the post.

Elgin Cathedral

Whilst Elgin Cathedral does require a little bit of a detour from the main NE250 route, we think that it’s a detour that is well worth making.

Originally built in 1224, this was for a time one of the most spectacular medieval cathedrals in Scotland, earning itself the nickname the “Lantern of the North”. It was gloriously decorated with paintings, stained glass, and carvings.

Unfortunately, following the Protestant Reformation in 1560, the cathedral fell into disrepair, and the loss of its roof shortly after the reformation did not help matters. It slowly crumbled into decadent ruin, with its fortunes only changing in the 19th century, when it became a popular visitor attraction for Georgian and Victorian travellers to Scotland.

Since then, Elgin Cathedral has impressed visitors from around the world. The two medieval stone towers can still be climbed, with various displays and exhibits found within them as you ascend to the roof for wonderful views.

Another highlight is the octagonal chapter house, which is in a good state of repair, and is filled with stone carvings of beasts and faces.

Elgin Cathedral is managed by Historic Scotland, and a fee applies for visiting.

Whilst you are in Elgin, you may also consider visiting the free and excellent Elgin Museum , Scotland’s oldest independent museum, which has displays on all sorts of things through both history and prehistory of the surrounding area and the world in general. The volunteers here were very friendly and informative.

Buckie and District Fishing Heritage Centre

You’re now going to be driving along the beautiful Moray Firth coastline, which has a rich cultural history, a deep connection with the sea, and stunning seascapes to admire.

If you’d like to learn a bit more about the history of the regions connection with the sea, and in particular fishing, then we can highly recommend a visit to the free Buckie & District Heritage Center , found in the town of Buckie.

Here you can learn all about the unique fishing history of this part of the world, through an extensive range of photographs, model boats, and a variety of other items. There are also volunteers on hand who in our experience were more than happy to help us with any questions we had.

Bow Fiddle Rock

Our last stop on today’s stretch of the NE250 is the wonderful Bow Fiddle Rock, found just north of the cute village of Portnockie. This is a uniquely shaped rock arch which resembles the tip of a fiddle bow.

It’s a very short walk down to the rock from the parking area (less than five minutes), and the rock is just offshore. It would make for a wonderful spot to watch the sunset, and is a fine place to end our day of exploring.

Where to Stay on the North East 250 Day 2

Our suggestion for your second night on the North East 250 is the town of Cullen. When you travel in Scotland, you are bound to see cullen skink on some of the menus, a hearty soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes and onions, which originated in the town of Cullen.

We think if you are going to eat Cullen Skink in Scotland, you should come to the source for the best stuff!

There is more to see in Cullen, including a beautiful town area, a famous viaduct, and a lovely beach.

Here are some accommodation options in Cullen we suggest.

• Cullen Bay Hotel –  This well reviewed hotel has a fantastic location above the coast, with excellent views. It is also home to an award winning cullen skink (we thought it was excellent too and tried both versions!). It’s a little outside the town.
• The Royal Oak Hotel – found in the centre of Cullen and with an on-site bar and restaurant, this property is very highly rated and great value
• Holiday homes – As well as the above hotels, there are a number of self-catering options in Cullen which you can see here .

Day 3: Cullen – Aberdeen

Your third day on the North East 250 has you continuing along the Moray Firth coast, visiting ruined castles, fascinating museums, and taking in some stunning beaches, before completing your circuit and finishing in Aberdeen. If you are a golfer, this is also a good day to consider stopping for a round of golf, just be sure to book a tee time in advance.

Again, there’s lots to see and do on this stretch, so do feel free to adjust the itinerary to meet your interests and pace, as you are unlikely to be able to do all the below full justice if you try and visit them all.

Found in the town of Banff, Duff House  is a gorgeous Georgian estate house which was designed and built by William Adam, Scotland’s foremost architect of his time.

Duff House was originally the home of William Duff, the first Earl of Fife, and it belonged to the Duff family until 1903. Since then it went through various owners, and it has been a hotel, a santatorium, a prisoner of war camp, and a barracks. Today it is a part of the National Galleries of Scotland, and is cared for by Historic Scotland.

The property is open for visiting, and you can explore the house and admire the architecture, learn about its history and uses, as well as appreciate some of the paintings and artwork on display. There are also extensive landscaped gardens to explore.

You can visit the shop and tea room for free, but access to the rest of the house is by admission only. It’s a Historic Scotland property, so Historic Scotland members can visit for free.

Gardenstown

A little further along the coast from Banff you will find the wonderfully picturesque coastal village of Gardenstown.

This literally clings to the side of the cliff here, with the oldest part of the village found at the base of the cliffs, and the newer parts found further up as villagers looked for space to build.

Gardenstown is well worth a short stop and explore. There are some lovely houses to admire, a small museum about the town’s history, and some cafes and craft stores. There are also some bed and breakfast options in the town if you’d prefer to stay here.

Cullykhan Beach

We felt that we couldn’t have a road trip around this beautiful stretch of coastline without mentioning at least one beach, although if it’s beaches you are after, there are plenty to sate your appetite.

Cullykhan beach, which is near the RSPB Troup Head nature reserve (a must for bird lovers), is a lovely sandy beach, reached via a few minutes walk from the car park. It’s not a huge beach but it is very pretty.

Pitsligo Castle

If you like your castles of the ruined, crumbling variety, then you should make a stop at Pitsligo Castle . You might also consider visiting Findlater Castle earlier on in the day, which is near to Cullen.

Pitsligo Castle was originally a 15th century keep, which was expanded in the 16th and 17th centuries. Today it stands largely in ruins, although there is still plenty to see here.

We enjoyed visiting these ruins – we were the only visitors, and other than a herd of sheep, we saw no-one else during our time here. The castle has a definite feeling of neglect and abandonment, although efforts to restore it are underway. Care should also be taken when visiting as this is an old ruin, and may be unstable.

Museum of Scottish Lighthouses

Scotland has a lot of coastline, which made it a fairly dangerous place for ships to navigate around. To help alleviate this problem, a network of lighthouses was set up around the coastline, and to learn all about their fascinating history and evolution, a visit to the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses is in order.

This museum, which features a tour of the original Kinnaird Head lighthouse, is filled with all sorts of artefacts and information all about the history of lighthouses, lighthouse technology and the lighthouse keepers who used to run these unique structures.

There’s a fee to enter the museum, which includes an excellent guided tour of Kinnaird Head lighthouse, which is a fascinating building as it was built inside a former castle keep by renowned Scottish lighthouse builder Robert Stevenson. You can also tour the museum itself on your own.

Directly next door to the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses is another museum, the Museum of Fraserburgh . We didn’t have time to visit this when we were here, but it definitely looked like the sort of place we would enjoy, so do consider stopping in here as well.

Peterhead Prison Museum

An active prison from 1888 to 2013, Her Majesty’s Prison Peterhead is now the Peterhead Prison Museum .

Here you can learn all about what life was like in this prison, both for the inmates and the guards, as well as the history of the prison, which had a number of notable events happen during its history.

The visit is brought to life by an excellent audioguide, which tells the stories of both the inmates and the guards. It’s informative and insightful, and often times disturbing and bleak. Life in prison was certainly no bed of roses for either the guards or the prisoners, and the tour pulls few punches.

Some of the folks who work here were actually guards, including the guard who was taken captive by the prisoners during the infamous 1987 Peterhead prison riot. That riot, which protested the fairly grim conditions the prisoners were held in, had the prisoners take control of part of the prison, and was only ended when Britain’s special forces unit, the SAS, stormed the building.

This is certainly fairly dark tourism, but is a worthy inclusion, and is certainly unlike anything else you’ll see on your NE250 road trip! There is also a cafe you can stop at towards the end of the tour for coffee and sandwiches – we stopped here and had a coffee and a pie each.

Bullers of Buchan

Heading south of Peterhead, our next stop on the last day of this North East 250 road trip is the Buller of Buchan. This is a huge collapsed sea cave, 100 feet deep, which makes for a dramatic scene. There are also some very cute cottages here which were originally a fishing village.

There’s a free carpark on site here just off the road, and the walk to the Bullers of Buchan is only a few minutes from the parking area. If you wanted to take a longer hike, you can also walk from here along the coast on the Buchan coastal footpath, which runs in both directions from here, including to our next stop.

Slains Castle

There are actually two Slains Castles in the area here, the 13th century Old Slains Castle, and the 16th century New Slains Castle. We suggest you visit New Slains Castle, which in our opinion is the more interesting of the two.

New Slains Castle is a ruined 16th century tower house which been redesigned a number of times, which perhaps accounts for its rather odd appearance. Its most recent renovation was in 1837, when it was rebuilt as a Scots Baronial mansion.

However, to avoid tax it had its roof removed in 1925, which as you may imagine has not exactly helped it weather the elements, and it is currently in a fairly advanced state of ruin.

It is still a magnificent building though, and you can wander around the interior, which is a maze like series of rooms, whose roofs are clearly open to the sky.

The castle has had some noteworthy visitors, in particular Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula, who stayed near here in 1895. The castle is believed to have been part of the inspiration for the aforementioned novel.

Slains Castle is currently free to visit, and as with any ruin of this sort, we advise care as it might be unstable.

Golf courses

If you would like to fit in a round of golf during your NE250 road trip, this might be the best day to do so, although of course you will have to adjust the itinerary to suit. Just note that the majority of golf courses will require an advanced tee time booking.

Some of the more popular courses that you will be near on this day include  Cruden Bay Golf Club ,  Trump International Golf Links ,  Banchory Golf Club ,  Peterhead Golf Club ,  Fraserburgh Golf Club  and  Deeside Golf Club .

For more information, take a look at this more complete listing of  Aberdeenshire golf courses .

Where to Stay on the North East 250 Day 3

So that brings to an end our last day of driving the North East 250! For your final night, we suggest staying somewhere between Slains Castle and Aberdeen, depending on your onward journey plans. Here are some recommended options.

• Buchan Braes Hotel – We’ve stayed at this modern 4-star hotel when driving the NE250. It’s conveniently near the Peterhead Prison Museum and Slains Castle. Rooms were comfortable, the on-site restaurant was very good and it’s excellent value.
• Hosefield Bed and Breakfast  – If you’re looking for a bed and breakfast, Hosefield B&B is a well rated option. All rooms are en-suite, there’s a shared lounge area, and an excellent breakfast is included.
• Station Hotel  – A highly rated 2* option with air conditioned en-suite rooms, on-site dining and free parking. A good option for the budget conscious.
• MacLeod House & Lodge  – If you want to finish on a high note, this luxury 5-star property might be just the place to do it. Rooms feature large TVs, marble bathrooms, there’s a full restaurant on-site, and the property itself is a lovely baronial mansion. There’s also an on-site 72 hole golf course.

Map of North East 250 Route

To help you visualise your North East 250 road trip we’ve put together this map, which highlights our suggested route as well as the various attractions for each day. You can also see this map on Google Maps here .

North East 250 Itinerary Overview

Here’s a quick overview of this trip for reference:

• Day 1: Aberdeen – Braemar
• Day 2: Braemar – Cullen
• Day 3: Cullen – Aberdeen

When to Drive the North East 250

Whilst the route can be driven at any time of year, our recommendation is to drive the North East 250 between the months of April and September for the best experience. This is for two reasons.

First, the weather is going to be more reliably good. Whilst we can’t guarantee glorious sunshine every day, it is more likely to be sunnier, and it should be warmer than in the winter months! For the best weather and quietest roads, our preferred month to do this trip would be May or June. These months will also have long days, letting you fit more sightseeing in!

The other reason to drive the NE250 at this time of year is that many of the attractions are not open over the winter months, so if you actually want to visit and go inside some of the castles and other attractions on the route, then you will need to drive it when these are open.

A particular note must be made for Balmoral, which has limited opening dates. If Balmoral is on your wishlist of places to visit, you definitely want to check it will be open when you visit.

North East 250 Tours

If you would prefer to experience the North East 250 as part of a guided tour, we have put together the following list of options.

It’s worth noting that at the time of writing there are not very many  tours that follow the NE250 in its complete form. however you can certainly visit some of the highlights on a tour from Aberdeen, Inverness, or Edinburgh. Some tours to consider include the following:

• A 1 day tour of the Speyside distilleries from Inverness, which includes a stop at Elgin Cathedral. If you are staying in Inverness, see our guide to more day tours from Inverness for inspiration.
• A 1 day tour of the Speyside distilleries from Aberdeen
• A 3 day tour of the Speyside distilleries from Edinburgh, which also includes time in the Cairngorms National park and Elgin
• A 4 day tour from Edinburgh which includes a number of stops near the NE250 route.

Further Reading

We’ve explored Scotland and the UK quite thoroughly, and from our travels we’ve put together a number of posts to help you plan your own route. Here are some we think you’ll find useful, as well as some guidebooks and other resources we like to use.

• Parts of the North East 250 pass through the Cairngorms National Park, the UK’s largest National Park. See our guide to things to do in the Cairngorms , as well as our guide to skiing in the Cairngorms .
• The NE250 passes by Aberdeen. Check out our guide to things to do in Aberdeen , as well as our suggested way to spend 2 days in Aberdeen . We also have a guide to Aberdeen’s best restaurants , and our favourite day trips from Aberdeen .
• The official website for the NE250, which includes a route map and guide to attractions and lodging along the way.
• One of the most popular road trips in Scotland is the North Coast 500. We’ve driven this multiple times, and have a number of guides to help you plan. Check out our North Coast 500 guide , 7 day NC500 camping itinerary , general 7 day North Coast 500 itinerary , a shorter 5 day North Coast 500 road trip itinerary , where to stay along the NC500 , and highlights of the NC500 to start with. If you are looking for a longer road trip, you can easily combine the North East 250 and North Coast 500.
• We’ve also written about a number of other cities in Scotland to help you plan. We suggest taking a look at our guide to things to do in Inverness , things to do in Edinburgh  and  things to do in Glasgow  as a starting point!
• If you’re visiting the UK from abroad, you might want to take a look at our tips for driving in the UK , as well as a guide to how much it costs to travel in the UK .
• We also have plenty more content on Scotland and the UK for you to check out, including London itineraries , UK road trip ideas , Harry Potter locations , and more!
• If you’d like a travel guide to bring with you, we recommend the Rick Steves Scotland guide . The DK Eyewitness Travel Guide to Scotland is another popular option.

And that’s it for our 3 day North East 250 itinerary! As always, we’re happy to hear your feedback and questions – just use the comments below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

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There are 26 comments on this post

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Sue Mair says

31st March 2022 at 10:55 am

Thank you so much for your time and effort in producing this blog. It was useful when we spent 3 weeks exploring the NC500, and yes, we could have taken a lot longer! I don’t think people realise what it is like to drive in Scotland, how much longer it seems to take to get anywhere and how much you miss by not taking enough time! We are now using your guide to do the NE250, although we are staying in 2 cottages for one week each in two different areas and will be exploring around it, with two young children. Looking forward to trying the Cullen Skink in Cullen ! Thank you again.

Laurence Norah says

31st March 2022 at 6:14 pm

It our pleasure Sue, we are so happy to hear that you have found it useful and are now enjoying the NE250, another beautiful part of Scotland. One thing we have learnt from out travel in Scotland is that you can never spend too much time anywhere, there is always more to see! Enjoy the Cullen Skink, and safe travels 🙂

Jim Campbell says

6th August 2021 at 3:54 pm

Found your info on a suggested route really helpful. Thank you. Having completed the NC500 plus Skye, Loch Ness, Glencoe and more a few years ago We plan to head to NE250 in early September in a motorhome..Planning on 6 or 7 days to allow plenty of site seeing. We will be travelling up from the Midlands and allowing a couple of weeks for the whole trip.. One place I must go to is to see the Skelpies but have you any further suggestions we might look to include.

8th August 2021 at 12:19 pm

Great to hear from you! So if you are heading in that direction, I would probably recommend the following as some options, going in order as you go north

Stirling (just north of the Kelpies), where you can see the castle and Wallace Monument, amongst many other things. Perth – lots of lovely museums and the excellent Scone Palace Dundee – if you have time, there are some great museums here like the Jute Museum, RRS Discovery and the V&A Arbroath, the abbey is wonderful, and there’s a lighthouse museum and a nice walk along the cliffs here House of Dun is a nice house as you go a bit further north Dunnottar Castle is a must stop just south of Stonehaven

Don’t forget to include some time in Aberdeen, the city has a lot to offer but it often overlooked by visitors to Scotland.

I hope these help! Of You could also head across to St. Andrews, there are lots of cute fishing villages and sites out along the coastaline around Anstruther, and Scotland’s Secret Bunker is worth visiting as well.

Have an amazing trip!

13th February 2020 at 11:09 am

Lots of campsites on the 500, do you recommend any for the 250. I would be towing a caravan. Many thanks and keep up the good work!

13th February 2020 at 2:45 pm

Great question! Popular campsites along the route include the Speyside Gardens camping and caravan park, Wester Bonnyton Caravan and Camping Site, Deeside Holiday Park, Silverbank Caravan and Motorhome Club Site, Tarland Camping and Caravanning Club Site. We’ve not personally stayed at any of these, but hopefully they give you a starting point!

Have a great adventure 🙂

Helena says

11th February 2020 at 12:43 pm

Hi have read most of your information, especially on the NC500 and it is very detailed, extremely informative & so helpful. We are travelling from Australia & planning a driving trip of 10 days in Scotland in May this year. We would like to drive the NC500 but want to do it in 3 days as there are other parts of Scotland we want to visit including a couple of days in Edinburgh, staying with a friend. Can you suggest an itinerary for the NC500 that is a shorter version of the 5 day itinerary. I am aware that some of the route is single track & also very winding, therefore slow. We as Australians are used to driving long distances in one day, eg Melbourne to Sydney – 900 kms! Any suggestions would be welcome.

11th February 2020 at 1:16 pm

Thanks for your comment 🙂 So we generally advise against trying to drive the NC500 route in 3 days, and suggest a minimum of 5 days. I certainly understand distances in Australia (I spent a year driving around in a Landcruiser :)), but the roads on the NC500, especially around the north west section, are really slow going, especially at busier times of year with all the single track roads. Once you factor in all the stops for sightseeing and photos, we know that 3 days will end up being a very tiring experience, and we have heard anecdotal evidence of exhausted travellers from multiple accommodation providers along the route.

If you do really want to stick to doing it in three days, then I would simply suggest taking the 5 day itinerary and stopping at the locations on Day 2 and Day 4, so Tongue/Durness, and then somewhere between Ullapool and Torridon. But ideally, if you can at least add one more day to make it four days, I think you will enjoy it more.

Have a great time regardless, and do let us know how it goes 🙂

Rob Small says

26th March 2022 at 9:05 pm

Hi Laurence- my wife and I are planning to travel the 250 route in our campervan ( with some B and B stays) but we also want to visit some of the islands off the west coast if possible – can you suggest an itinerary that might work for us ? We are retired so can be flexible with the length of stay but we thought the 500 route might be too much for us! Great website by the way- so informative!

27th March 2022 at 11:54 am

It’s great to hear from you and thanks very much. So there are quite a few islands off Scotland’s west coast. There’s the ever popular Skye and Arran, then lots of other options like Islay, Mull, Lewis & Harris, Uist etc.

Some of the decision will depend on where you are coming from as that will dictate what makes a logical route. If I ignore that, then I’d say one option would be to drive from Inverness to Ullapool, then take the ferry across to Lewis & Harris which is beautiful. You could then continue to explore by crossing to Uist if you wished, then return to Oban.

Alternatively, you could drive to Oban and explore Mull, or go further south and visit Islay and Jura!

There is a great deal to see and do, but a lot will depend on your interests and the length of the trip. I’d normally recommend picking one or two islands and exploring them in more depth.

One other option to consider rather than crossing Scotland might be to take the ferry from Aberdeen and visit Orkney, which would save you the driving and again there is plenty to see. I appreciate it’s not on the west, but just another option to think about.

Hopefully this gives you something to consider, let me know if I can provide further input and have an amazing trip!

Glyn Jenkins says

12th January 2020 at 3:52 am

Heading from Hampshire to do the route. Hope it stays dry

12th January 2020 at 10:20 am

Enjoy, fingers crossed for you for the weather 🙂

Linda Salo says

3rd January 2020 at 6:12 am

I am trying to figure out how to combine the 250 and the 500 road trips beginning and ending in Edinburgh. I think some of it would overlap? I have 8 days total :(. Any suggestions?? I think your site is awesome, and I do not find the ads so distracting. You have to make $$ for providing all of this information in some way!

3rd January 2020 at 10:40 am

Thanks for your comment and kinds words 🙂 I am not necessarily a fan of the ads, but they do pay the bills!

For your trip, yes, there will be a bit of overlap but not too much. The NC500 loops from Inverness around the north of the country, whilst the NE250 is a loop from Aberdeen. If i was you, I would drive from Edinburgh up Aberdeen, stopping at Dunnottar castle on the way. You could also see Banchory Castle, Crathes Castle and Drum Castle. I’d then do the NE250 counter-clockwise until Ballater, then across to Braemar and the down to the Spittal of Glenshee. You could then go across to the A9 and up to Inverness to start the NC500. As you are starting an ending in Edinburgh, I’d also suggest driving the NC500 counterclockwise, and then instead of coming back to Inverness from the west coast, driving back to Edinburgh via Fort William, Glencoe and possibly even Loch Lomond 🙂

Have a great trip, and let me know if I can be of any further help!

John Bibby says

26th August 2019 at 9:43 am

When are you going to produce a coast of Wales trip

26th August 2019 at 7:22 pm

Wales is definitely a country we plan to explore more of in 2020, so that is definitely on our radar. I was actually born in Wales and have travelled there a fair bit, but we need to return to do a thorough job, which we hope to do next year 🙂

26th May 2019 at 5:32 pm

You guys are freaking awesome! So much in-depth information; all from the goodness of your hearts. As an OCD nut who has to pre-plan the shortest of trips, I thank you for all the effort put into this website. I plan on travelling along the North Coast this summer, but you guys have given me so many other options to consider. Great work and God bless you!

26th May 2019 at 7:26 pm

Hey Hash – thanks so much! Just let us know if you have any questions, otherwise, have a great trip wherever you decide to go!

HUGO SOARES says

8th February 2019 at 1:20 pm

I’d love to get to know these castles! I loved article

8th February 2019 at 7:46 pm

Thanks Hugo 🙂

Denise Bartle says

7th February 2019 at 9:46 pm

Thank you, fantastic read. We are touring the NC500 this May and have added this to our route there from Hereford. Lots of information included, which I can look up. Will definitely be trying the Cullen Skink, and a distillery or two 🙂

8th February 2019 at 7:48 pm

Thanks Denise! It’s a great add-on to the NC500, although you might not want to do the whole loop – perhaps the coast and then a stretch of the Cairngorms 🙂

Russ wilkinson says

27th January 2019 at 4:14 pm

Hi great read but do you do one for the west of scotland. Hope to call at loch lomond and mull any idea’s thanks.

27th January 2019 at 4:23 pm

So currently we don’t have a specific road trip itinerary that includes Loch Lomond and Mull, but that is a great idea to add to our to-do list! We did recently notice that there’s a new South West 300 driving route, but that is south of Glasgow.

The closest we have is a five day highlands and Skye itinerary (although too far north for you I think), and a guide to Loch Lomond . We also have a lot of posts about the NC500 , although that’s a whole different area!

For a three or four day trip though, I’d suggest a day in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, a day covering Glencoe and Oban, and then from Oban over to Mull. On the way back you could complete the loop by heading south from Oban to that area.

I hope this helps – we’ll make sure to explore this area more fully and post a better itinerary in the coming year.

Leslie Mitchell says

27th January 2019 at 1:36 pm

The site is ruined by too may adverts which makes the site confusing to the viewer. Also whoever designed this route, has missed out many of the most interesting and scenic parts. The route could easily be extended to include more of Speyside, Granton on Spey, The Lecht Ski Centre. No mention of the road from Balmoral to Corgarf Castle, which follows the old military road and includes some fantastic scenery. Get the impression whoever wrote this piece does not know the area and does not do it justice.

27th January 2019 at 2:03 pm

Thanks for the feedback. We appreciate ads are not ideal, and in a perfect world we’d love not to have to run them. However, as they are the main way we generate a revenue from our sites, we have to have them. We do take user feedback seriously though and always try to make sure they are not negatively impacting the user experience and the ability to find the content you want.

In terms of the route, we can’t disagree with you – there is lots more that can be added on in the area. We have explored this area fairly extensively on a number of trips (we live in Scotland). However, we wanted to stay true to the official route of the North East 250 as it’s laid out by the North East 250 folks, which is what we tried to do where possible in this guide. Of course, we always encourage folks to do additional research and find things that they are interested in, and hopefully your comment will give them some ideas to do just that.

Thanks again for taking the time to comment,

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The 14 best places to visit in Scotland

Nov 19, 2023 • 9 min read

Pack your camping gear (and your rainproofs) and head to some of the best places to visit in Scotland © Robert Coppinger / Shutterstock

Some of the best places to visit in Scotland will be instantly familiar to anyone who’s ever gazed at a whisky label or shortbread tin. Think dramatic peaks, lonely glens, lochs, tartan and haggis!

From spectacular Skye and historic Edinburgh to the rolling rivers of Speyside, Scotland’s big sights are as glorious as you’d imagine. But scratch the surface of this proud nation and you’ll find a varied and engrossing place, dotted with prehistoric villages, wild clubs, rich seafood and ruined abbeys.

So, where to start? Once you've decided on the best time for your visit , you need to decide on the best places to go while you're there. Here is our pick of the best destinations in Scotland to get you started.

1. Edinburgh

Best place for year-round entertainment

Scotland's capital may be famous for its festivals, but there's much more to the city than that. Edinburgh is a place of many moods: visit in spring to see the Old Town silhouetted against a blue sky and a yellow haze of daffodils, or on a chill winter’s day for fog snagging the spires of the Royal Mile, rain on the cobblestones, and a warm glow beckoning from the windows of local pubs. With a world-class modern art gallery , top museums , spooky historic sites and a majestic 12th-century castle , there's plenty to keep you entertained whatever the season.

Local tip: Start your visit to Edinburgh with a climb up Arthur's Seat , an extinct volcano for panoramic views over the city.

2. West Highland Way

Best place for long-distance hiking

The best way to really get inside Scotland's landscapes is to walk them. Here, peaks tower over lochs and sea cliffs gaze over the wind-whipped sea, but there are short woodland trails and charming strolls through valleys dusted with purple heather, too. Top of the wish list for many hikers is the 96-mile West Highland Way from Milngavie (near Glasgow) to Fort William , a weeklong walk through some of the country's finest scenery, finishing in the shadow of its highest peak, Ben Nevis.

If you don’t have the time or energy for a long-distance trek, it's possible to do just a day's hike along part of the trail. For example, you could walk the section from Rowardennan to Inversnaid, returning to your starting point using the Loch Lomond waterbus . Whichever section you take on, pack waterproofs and midge repellent. Rail lovers should note that sleeper trains run south from Fort William all the way to London, making for an easy exit after a walk.

Detour: The 1,345m (4,413ft) summit of Ben Nevis is within reach of anyone who's reasonably fit: treat the peak with respect and your reward (weather permitting) will be magnificent views that can stretch as far as Northern Ireland.

3. North Coast 500

Best place for a scenic road trip

Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands , but the far north is where things become truly awe-inspiring. This is the best place in Scotland to explore by car (you can also cycle it), with some of the finest roadside scenery in Europe.

The North Coast 500 starts and ends in the likable city of Inverness , and loops past the lochs, sand dunes and golf courses of the east coast before taking in the remote cliffs and beaches of Cape Wrath, the rugged peaks of Assynt and Torridon’s desolate beauty. These sights, and the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in the region's classic rural pubs and old crofting villages, make this an unforgettable weeklong tour.

4. Isle of Skye

Best place for photographers

In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes the top prize. From the craggy peaks of the Cuillins and the bizarre pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing to the spectacular sea cliffs of Neist Point, there's a photo opportunity awaiting you at almost every turn.

Skye is also one of the best places in Scotland to see golden eagles, and you’ll find convivial pubs and top seafood restaurants if you can tear your eyes from the natural world. Of course, all this tourist appeal makes Skye one of Scotland's most popular destinations. The crowds tend to stick to Portree , Dunvegan and Trotternish – it’s almost always possible to find peace and quiet in the island’s further-flung corners. Planning tip: Come prepared for changeable weather – when it’s fine, it’s very fine indeed, but all too often it isn’t.

5. Loch Lomond

Best place for a lakeside hike

Despite being less than an hour's drive from the bustle and sprawl of Glasgow, the bonnie braes (banks) of Loch Lomond – immortalized in the words of one of Scotland's best-known songs – comprise one of the most scenic parts of the country.

At the heart of Scotland's first national park , the loch begins as a broad, island-peppered lake in the south, its shores clothed in bluebell-sprinkled woods before narrowing in the north to a fjord-like trench ringed by mountains. Detour: The summit of Ben Lomond (974m/3,031ft) is a popular climb – follow the well-maintained path for a 7-mile round-trip on the popular Tourist Route (allow around 5 hours).

Best place for live music and pub culture

Scotland's biggest city may lack Edinburgh's stunning setting, but it more than makes up for it with a barrelful of things to do and a warmth and energy that leaves every visitor impressed. Edgy and contemporary, it's a great spot to browse art galleries and museums , and to discover the works of local design hero Charles Rennie Mackintosh .

Glasgow’s infectious vitality is best sampled via its lively pubs and clubs, which host one of the world's great live music scenes. Local tip: Check out upcoming (mostly alt-rock) acts at the Barrowland (crowned the UK's best music venue by Time Out magazine in 2023), a legendary former ballroom, or try the Sub Club for house and techno, the Clutha Bar for roots and rock, or Nice N Sleazy , a classic indie dive.

7. Stirling

Best place for castle fans

With an impregnable position atop a mighty wooded crag – the plug of an extinct volcano – Stirling ’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings and cobbled streets winding up to the ramparts of Stirling Castle . This fortress has seen serious action – it was bombarded by the Warwolf, a giant 14th-century English siege engine, and was besieged during the 1745 Jacobite rising, as well as sending troops to the battle of Bannockburn (the decisive battle celebrated at the end of Braveheart ), just a few miles south.

Today, views that stretch to the Highlands, glorious tapestries and juicy history make this Scotland’s best castle – and a great family attraction. Planning tip: It's best to visit in the afternoon; many tourists come on day trips, so you may have the castle almost to yourself by 4pm.

8. St Andrews

Best place for golfers

Scotland invented the game of golf, and the city of St Andrews is still revered as its spiritual home by hackers and champions alike. Links courses are the classic experience here – bumpy coastal affairs where the rough is heather and machair (coastal grass) and the main enemy is the wind, which can make a disaster of a promising round in an instant.

St Andrews, the historic Fife university town, is golf's headquarters , and an irresistible destination for anyone who loves the sport. And if you're not so keen, well, the city has impressive medieval ruins , stately university buildings , idyllic white sands and excellent guesthouses and restaurants .

9. Skara Brae

Best place for lovers of ancient history

When visiting ancient sites, it can sometimes be difficult to bridge the gulf of years or build a connection with the people that built them, but Scotland’s superb prehistoric remains have an immediate impact. Few places offer a better glimpse of everyday Stone Age life than Skara Brae in Orkney with its carefully constructed fireplaces, beds, cupboards and water cisterns.

This Neolithic village – which, at 5,000 years is older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids of Giza – lay buried in coastal sand dunes for centuries. Even today, it can feel as though the inhabitants have just slipped out to go fishing and could return at any moment.

10. Glen Coe

Best place for clan history

Scotland's most famous glen combines two essential qualities of the Highlands: dramatic scenery and a deep sense of history. The peace and beauty of this valley today belies the fact that Glen Coe was the scene of a ruthless 17th-century massacre, when the local MacDonalds were murdered by soldiers of the Campbell clan.

Some of the glen's finest walks – to the Lost Valley, for example – follow the routes taken by fleeing clanspeople, many of whom perished in the snow. Planning tip: Start at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for more information on this beautiful place and its tragic history.

11. Perthshire

Best place to enjoy nature's bounty

In Perthshire , the heart of Scotland, picturesque towns bloom with flowers, distilleries emit tempting malty odors and sheep graze in impossibly green meadows. There's a feeling of the bounty of nature that no other place in Scotland can replicate.

Blue-gray lochs shimmer, reflecting the changing moods of the weather; centuries-old trees tower amid riverside forests; majestic glens scythe their way into remote wildernesses; and salmon leap upriver to the place of their birth.

12. Shetland Islands

Best place for birdwatching

Close enough to Norway to make Scottish nationality an ambiguous concept, the Shetland Islands are Britain’s most northerly outpost. The stirringly bleak setting – recognized as a precious UNESCO geopark – still feels uniquely Scottish though, with deep, naked glens flanked by steep hills, twinkling, sky-blue lochs and, of course, wandering sheep on the little-trafficked roads. It's the birdlife, however, that really draws visitors here.

From their first arrival in late spring to the raucous feeding frenzies of high summer, the vast colonies of gannets, guillemots, skua, puffins and kittiwakes at Hermaness , Noss, Sumburgh Head and Fair Isle provide some of Britain's most impressive birdwatching experiences. Local tip: Shetland is one of the best places in the UK to spot orcas (and the Northern Lights).

13. Speyside

Best place for whisky tasting

Scotland's national drink is whisky – from the Gaelic uisge beatha , meaning “water of life” – and this fiery spirit has been distilled here for more than 500 years. More than 50 distilleries are in operation in Speyside, Scotland's most famous whisky area, famed for fruity, lightly spicy flavors (head over to Islay for peatier varieties).

Ask at the Whisky Museum about the Malt Whisky Trail, a self-guided tour around the local distilleries. If you just have time for one, the Balvenie Distillery is a good bet as it still uses a traditional malting floor – the smell is glorious!

Planning tip: Dufftown lies at the heart of the region and is host to the biannual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

14. The Scotland Borders

Best place for a country ramble

Many visitors to Scotland race up to Edinburgh and then hightail it to the Highlands, missing the Scottish Borders entirely . That's their loss. Once fought over by war chiefs and cattle thieves, the Borders region is rich in history and packed with good cycling and hiking routes.

There are grand country houses, too – Traquair House brews Jacobite Ale and has a concealed room that once hid Catholic priests – and a series of gorgeous ruined abbeys – Gothic Melrose Abbey is the best – plus birds and sea cliffs at St Abb’s Head. More active types can fish for salmon or thunder down the mountain bike trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.

This article was first published May 13, 2021 and updated Nov 19, 2023.

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10 regions of Scotland (Guide for itinerary planning)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 8, 2024

If you are planning a trip to Scotland but are not sure where to visit you will find essential information in this guide. Discover 10 regions of Scotland and the main highlights of each.

For many visitors to the UK, a trip to Scotland is high on the itinerary wish list. However, beyond Edinburgh, the Highlands of Scotland, a whisky tour and perhaps a visit to the Isle of Skye many visitors are unsure of what to include in their itinerary.

We have many articles containing practical tips and information to help plan your Scotland itinerary on this website (our Scotland Travel Guide has links to all of these) but we also know that many people are unsure of the geography of Scotland – where the most popular destinations are located and where they are in relation to each other. Having some basic knowledge of the regions of Scotland is important though especially when planning your itinerary.

With this in mind, we have put together this guide (which complements our guide to the 9 regions of England ). If you are participating in our UK itinerary planning challenge you will find this information useful to use in conjunction with our free planning workbook.

North East Scotland

Northern scottish highlands and islands, inverness and the central scottish highlands, southern scottish highlands and islands, orkney and shetland islands, central scotland, the scottish borders, dumfries & galloway.

🚙 Considering a road trip around Scotland? Not sure if you’re up to driving in the UK? We recommend using a Tripiamo guide to familiarise yourself with it before your journey. Previous UK Travel Planning users have said this has made them feel much more comfortable getting behind the wheel. Find out more in our guide to renting a car in the UK 🚗

Highlights of this area of Scotland include

• City of Aberdeen – the ‘Granite City’ is the most populous city in the north of Scotland. Things to do in Aberdeen include visiting the oldest house in Aberdeen – the Provost Skene’s House, seeing Balmoral (the Queen’s summer residence) or exploring Craigievar or Dunottar Castles. The city is also home to the Aberdeen Maritime Museum.
• Dundee – Scotland’s fourth most populous city Dundee also has some excellent museums. Highlights include Verdant Works, the Dundee Museum of Transport and lets not forget the statues of Desperate Dan and Oor Wullie!
• Speyside and the Malt Whisky Trail – this is a must for any whisky lovers though we do recommend taking a tour if you want to truly experience the trail (and all the samples along the way!)
• Perth – A great base from which to explore Central Scotland Perth offers much for visitors including an extensive choice of award winning restaurants, museums and activities for sports lovers.
• St Andrews – the home of golf with a good selection of courses including the most famous one in the world – St Andrews Old Course!

Recommended tours

• J ohn O’Groats – this village is a must visit stop on the North Coast 500 route this is where you can truly say that you have visited the most northeasterly point in Britain.
• Isle of Skye – Probably the most popular island for visitors to Scotland is the beautiful Isle of Skye. Discover more about planning a visit with our Isle of Skye Travel Guide , our Isle of Skye itinerary and our comparision guide to the best Isle of Skye tours .
• Outer Hebrides – Scotland’s very own “Outer Lands” is made up of around 130 islands including Lewis and Harris. Highlights include: The Callanish Standing Stones and Dun Carloway (both Lewis). The Western Isles are home to some of the best beaches in Scotland.
• Read more – Scottish Highlands Travel Guide

• Inverness – the Highland Capital, the best place to start your Highlands adventure. Top things to do in Inverness include visiting Culloden battlefield (where Bonnie Prince Charlie clashed with Cumberland’s army in 1745) and of course exploring the environs of Loch Ness.
• Fort William – The city lies in the shadow of the UK’s highest mountain – Ben Nevis. If you are fan of Harry Potter you may have a trip on the Jacobite on your bucket list. Read more in our guide – How to catch the Harry Potter train in Scotland & 15 Things to do in Fort William
• Loch Ness – Visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness and don’t forget to spot Nessie while you’re there!
• Aviemore – A popular base with walkers this area offers plenty of great activities including skiing, mountain biking, kayaking etc.
• The Cairngorms – Dotted with lochs and forests this area is one of the best places in Scotland for spotting wildlife.

• Loch Lomond and the Trossachs – Scotland’s first National Park this area is popular with everyone from walkers, cyclists to hill-goers, anglers and history lovers.
• Oban – Oban is one of the most picturesque coastal towns in Scotland. Famous for its stunning bay with panoramic views, Oban has an abundance of beauty and history to explore.
• Inner Hebrides – the smaller islands of the Inner Hebrides include Mull, Iona, Tiree, Coll and Islay. Discover more about these beautiful islands in my Scottish Islands guide .

• READ MORE – Things to do in Orkney
• Shetlands – Fans of the British TV series Shetland may have their sights set on a visit to the beautiful islands located 130 miles (210 km) north of the Scottish mainland. Overnight ferries depart Aberdeen or Kirkwall and arrive in Lerwick 12 hours later.

Located between the Scottish Highlands to the north and the Lowlands to the south the Central Belt of Scotland contains two of the countries largest cities Edinburgh and Glasgow (more about them below) In this area you will also find:

• Falkirk – Home to The Helix, the Falkirk Wheel and The Kelpies Falkirk is a popular destination for a day trip from Edinburgh.
• Stirling – Stirling Castle is an absolute must-see if you are visiting this area and is easy to reach from Edinburgh by train . Nearby you will find the Wallace Monument and Bannockburn.

Things to do in Glasgow

• Visit the museums and galleries including the famous Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
• Follow the city centre mural trail.
• Art Deco fans can indulge their passion at many sites including The Mackintosh House, the House for an Art Lover or The Lighthouse. Take a Mackintosh walking tour and top off the day with a drink at the Willow Tea Rooms at Sauchiehall Street.
• Enjoy Scotland’s favourite tipple at the Clydeside Distillery.
• Read – Glasgow Travel Guide

Scotland’s capital Edinburgh is a vibrant city with lots to offer visitors.

Highlights include:

• Edinburgh Castle – one of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks sits on top of the famous volcanic rock hills of Castle Rock and overlooks the city.
• The Royal Mile – this is the main street that runs from the castle down to Holyrood Palace.
• Princes Street – Edinburgh’s main shopping street

Read more about visiting Edinburgh in our Edinburgh Travel Guide.

• Melrose Abbey – The ruins of this abbey are some of the most spectacular in Scotland.
• St Abb’s Head National Nature Reserve – a RSPB site famous for its seabird colonies . It is popular with nature lovers, walkers and of course bird watchers!
• Floors Castle – The residence of the Duke of Roxburghe located on the edge of the beautiful town of Kelso.
• This area borders the English county of Northumberland to the south.

• Caerlaverock Castle – This moated triangular shaped castle is located 11 km south of Dumfries. It has been described as one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland.
• Kirkcudbright – Scotland’s “Art Town” is a great place to visit if you are an art lover with numerous galleries and and studios to explore.
• Galloway Forest Park – set out over 7,000 hectares this forest park is great for walking, cycling and other outdoor activities.

Plan your visit to Scotland

• Books to read before you visit Scotland
• Best movies set in Scotland
• Guide to 7 popular Scottish drinks
• Best Outlander tours for 2022 and beyond
• Scottish Gift Guide – gift ideas for anyone who loves Scotland

• Group Enquiry? NEW

Places to Visit in Moscow

• Places To Visit

Tourist Places in Moscow

Here is the list of best places to visit in moscow:.

The Moscow Kremlin

St. Basil's Cathedral

The State Tretyakov Gallery

Lenin's Mausoleum

Bolshoi Theatre

State Historical Museum

Gorky Central Park Of Culture And Leisure

Arbat Street

All Russian Exhibition Center

The Moscow Planetarium

Sparrow Hills

Ostankino Television Tower

Glavniy Botanicheskiy Sad Run Im. N.V. Tsitsino

Neskuchny Garden

Monument To Minin And Pozharsky

Armoury Chamber

Novodevichy Convent

Kolomenskoye

Best of Russia

Museum Of Cosmonautics

Grand Kremlin Palace

The Pushkin State Museum Of Fine Arts

Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve

Losiny Ostrov National Park

Granovitaya Palata

Garden Ring

Usadba Izmaylovo

Poklonnaya Hill

Best of Cairo

Kuskovo Summer Palace

Dormition Cathedral

Muzeon Park Of Art

Ivan The Great Bell Tower

Tverskaya Street

Cathedral Of Christ The Saviour

Dream Island

Terem Palace

Best of Kazakhstan

Sokolniki Park

Alexander Garden

Museum Of The Great Patriotic War

People Also Ask About Moscow

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8 Places You Must Visit in 2025

If you've ever wondered what the best places are to visit in Scotland each season, you're in the right place. These Scottish gems have huge amounts to offer and there are exciting things to shout about in 2025. 

The Bridge to Nowhere, Dunbar

© Visit East Lothian

Weather: you can expect average maximum temperatures to range from approximately 7-13°C (or 45°-55°F) during the months of March, April and May.

A view towards Tantallon Castle, near North Berwick, with the Bass Rock beyond

East Lothian 

Location: Eastern central lowlands of Scotland. 

Spring in East Lothian is lovely. Expect seaside towns waking up after winter, with pretty harbours and beautiful beaches. Watersports fans will find plenty to do, from surfing and wakeboarding in Dunbar, to sailing in North Berwick. The mild weather is ideal for taking a coastal walk or exploring a castle – Tantallon is right on your doorstep here. 

Just a short train ride from Edinburgh, East Lothian is the perfect base for day trips to the Scottish capital, allowing you to experience a sense of rural calm with a spot of city living!  

In 2025, East Lothian is firmly putting its focus on making holidays accessible for all. Many local businesses have recently achieved the AccessAble accreditation, and an extensive amount of work has been done to improve beach facilities at popular places like Yellowcraig.  

Visit East Lothian  

Culla Bay and Beach, Benbecula, Outer Hebrides

Outer Hebrides 

Location: Northwest islands off Scotland’s mainland. 

Spring in the Outer Hebrides… what a place to be! We recommend the Uists, which include Berneray, North Uist, Grimsay, Benbecula, South Uist and Eriskay. These stunning islands offer a unique blend of walking, wellness, Gaelic culture, authentic experiences and more.  

Just picture miles of empty golden sands, backed by large dunes and machair that are rich with wildflowers and wildlife - these islands offer the perfect backdrop for a wellness retreat. Experience the great outdoors at its best. Explore on two feet or pedal your way through the islands on The Hebridean Way , or climb the spectacular  Beinn Mhor and Hecla  mountains on South Uist. Don’t miss some great opportunities to connect with the friendly islanders: join crofters for lambing and peat cutting experiences or put on your dancing shoes and join locals at a ceilidh. 

Explore the Outer Hebrides  

Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate, Banchory

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Weather: June, July and August are normally the warmest months in Scotland, with average maximum temperatures ranging from approximately 15-17°C (or 59-63 °F).

Aberdeenshire 

Location: North coast of eastern Scotland. 

Summer 2025 promises to be spectacular in Aberdeenshire with The Tall Ships Races coming to Aberdeen. This event will bring a fleet of majestic ships to the city, offering an exciting one-off spectacle. Aberdeenshire more widely is the perfect retreat for those who love the outdoors. 2025 will see a new visitor centre opening at the Spittal of Glen Muick – great for buzzseekers!  

Spot of fishing anyone? Anglers can try their luck in the Dee, Don, and Deveron rivers, while hillwalkers can tackle local Munros like Lochnagar, Mount Keen or Braeriach, to name a few. If you’re looking for a more relaxed wander, enjoy the scenic Loch Muick Circuit . Mountain bikers and hikers will find plenty of trails to explore in the Cairngorms, highlighting Aberdeenshire's undeniable natural beauty. 

Visit Aberdeenshire  

Loch Laggan near Dalwhinnie, Badenoch

© Airborne Lens / Liam Anderstrem

The Highlands 

Location: Mountainous area in the northwest. 

2025 will be an exciting time for The Highlands with the opening of the Inverness Castle Experience to the public. This new attraction will celebrate ‘The Spirit of the Highlands’ and offer a new perspective on the region's history.  

Further south in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, don't miss the beautiful region of Badenoch. With ancient fortresses, unique wildlife, scenic nature trails and endless hiking opportunities, this is the perfect base to experience the true Highlands. Discover Badenoch’s immense cultural heritage at the  Highland Folk Museum , Britain’s first open air museum, encounter remarkable wildlife at Highland Wildlife Park and its brand-new Discovery Centre, and join the Badenoch Storylands Sessions  for an evening of songs, poetry and tales, or download the Badenoch The Storylands app. 

Golfers take note! The new Castle Stuart Golf Course opens in 2025, complementing an already world-class Scottish golfing area. For those seeking a coastal break, the Sutherland & Caithness coast from Dornoch to Wick offers breathtaking scenery.  The region is also home to  The Flow Country – one of the largest areas of blanket bog anywhere in the world, and it has just been announced as Scotland’s latest UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to diverse habitats, an array of wildlife and untouched natural scenery, it is a must-visit for 2025. 

Explore The Highlands  

Loch Katrine seen from the summit of Ben A'an in The Trossachs

Weather: In the autumn, Scotland is likely to experience temperatures ranging from around 8-15°C (46-59°F) from September to November.

Loch Ard near Aberfoyle

Loch Lomond, The Trossachs, Stirling & Forth Valley 

Location: West of central Scotland. 

Autumn is a brilliant time to explore the Forth Valley. With excellent cycling links and walking opportunities in the sweeping glens of the Ochil Hills, as well as characterful towpaths along the area's canals, this is a fun place to experience Scotland’s dazzling autumn colours.  

You could also escape to The Trossachs - we recommend the area around Loch Katrine, the quaint villages of Callander, Aberfoyle, and stunning lochs like Loch Venachar and Loch Ard. There are also plenty of places along the way where you can enjoy local produce and soak in the atmosphere of autumn around you.  

Nearby in Stirling, the National Wallace Monument is a popular spot. Climb the steps and admire the panoramic views over the city and region beyond. A short drive away you’ll find Doune Castle, which is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its appearance in Monty Python and the Holy Grail. 

Visit Loch Lomond, The Trossachs, Stirling & Forth Valley  

Carnoustie on the Angus coast

Dundee & Angus 

Location: East coast of central Scotland. 

Did you know that travelling during autumn is a green and sustainable holiday choice? Autumn holidays spread the tourism love across the year and Dundee & Angus is a great choice for 2025. Definitely worth a look are the amazing outdoor experiences on offer, such as Camperdown Country Park, Carnoustie Beach, Monikie Country Park and more. 

Head along to visit Dundee’s waterfront, where you’ll find top attractions like the V&A Dundee – expect illuminating exhibitions and cutting-edge design here as always. Another fantastic sustainable element of the region is the Eden Project – set to be a landmark development for the city, transforming former gasworks into a beacon for regeneration and green tourism. Keep your eyes peeled for more information coming soon. 

Explore Dundee & Angus  

Edinburgh Sunset

© VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

Weather: December, January and February are generally the coldest months in Scotland, with the average maximum temperature usually around 5°C (41°F).

A father and his daughter enjoying the Edinburgh Christmas Market

© VisitScotland / Peter Dibdin

Edinburgh 

Location: East of central Scotland. 

Edinburgh + winter = the ideal escape! In 2025, the city is set to have some exciting new attractions. Perhaps most anticipated is the opening of Lost Shore Surf Resort , which means surfers can now catch perfect waves in the heart of winter. 

Edinburgh Gin's new location will provide a cosy spot for gin lovers. Of course, the city's classic attractions remain as appealing as ever, from Edinburgh Castle to the famous Hogmanay celebrations at New Year. Whether you're browsing Christmas markets, or simply soaking in the city's winter ambience, Edinburgh is the place for a magical winter getaway. 

A day trip to nearby Glasgow should also be on the cards. The city celebrates 850 years of history in 2025. 

Visit Edinburgh  

Up Helly Aa

Shetland 

Location: Northernmost island off Scotland’s mainland. 

Winter in Shetland offers all kinds of incredible things to do! A must see is the famous Up Helly Aa fire festival in Lerwick, where you can experience Shetland’s Norse legacy at Europe’s largest annual fire festival. Get ready to see the Viking Jarl Squad, a mesmerising torchlit procession, and the burning of The Galley too. There are in fact many regional fire festivals held across the islands, providing a unique insight into Shetland's community spirit and cultural traditions.  

Beyond the festivals, Shetland in winter is a place to centre yourself in lively island life. Embrace brisk walks along epic coastlines in Shetland’s UNESCO Global Geopark where you can uncover incredible geology that spans almost three billion years, topped off by warm, welcoming pubs serving up local food & drink. The long winter nights also offer excellent opportunities for stargazing and, if you're lucky, catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Why not uncover the new Sky Trail that celebrates Shetland’s amazing skies? 

Visit Shetland  

Of course that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Scotland’s must-visit destinations. These were just a few of the best places to visit across the seasons but the adventures don’t stop here. Where will you go next?

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