As many of you know, I recently took a two week honeymoon to Scotland. Not the typical warm honeymoon destination during October, but a trip I will remember forever! Scotland offers an unforgettable experience for travelers – from its history to breathtaking landscapes, there is something for everyone. We spent time in three different areas: Edinburgh, St. Andrews, and the Highlands. Here’s the essential travel guide to Scotland to reference on your next trip!
Edinburgh
Getting There & Around: Edinburgh is easily accessible via Edinburgh Airport, which serves numerous international and domestic flights. (Try to fly direct if you can and pick the most eco option on Google Flights) The city boasts an excellent public transport system including buses, trams, and trains making it easy to get to the city without having to rent a car.
Top Attractions:
- Edinburgh Castle: You can see the Castle from almost anywhere in the city; it’s so fun to look up and see it perched high up on Castle Rock. Visiting the Castle is a must when you are in the city. There is so much history (and gorgeous views) to see, including the Scottish Crown Jewels! We had afternoon tea in their tearoom as well, which was such a fun experience.
- Royal Mile: Stretching from the Castle down to Holyrood Palace, this historic street is lined with quaint shops (tailored to tourists of course) and pubs. Don’t forget to stop at St. Giles Cathedral as you wander around this street!
- Arthur’s Seat: For a natural escape, hike up to Arthur’s Seat (an ancient volcano) which provides the best views over the city. If you don’t feel like hiking up the whole thing, even a 30 minute hike will get you some beautiful scenery.
- National Museum of Scotland: This museum is FREE! They have exhibits of all sorts – Scottish history, culture, science, etc. One of the coolest things is Dolly the sheep, the very first cloned animal! In addition to their exhibits there is a way to get on the roof for another gorgeous view of the city.
St. Andrews
Getting There & Around: St. Andrews is less than two hours from Edinburgh by train or car (we decided to take an Uber). The town is compact and most easily explored on foot when you arrive. Make sure to book an Airbnb so that you can stay eco-friendly as you travel!
Top Attractions:
- The Old Course: Golf enthusiasts can’t miss visiting the world’s oldest golf course! Even though I am not a golfer, it was still cool to walk along this historic course. There are drawings you can enter to play the course as well (but know that the chances are quite slim).
- St. Andrews Castle and Cathedral: If you are looking to explore some ruins then make sure to check out the castle and cathedral in town. The cathedral was once Scotland’s largest and it is fun to imagine what it looked like back in the day.
- University of St. Andrews: This is a beautiful campus to walk around! It is Scotland’s oldest university and offers beautiful architecture that reminds me of the Law Quad in Ann Arbor. Prince William and Kate Middleton attended – you can visit the cute Northpoint cafe where they used to have tea.
Inverness/The Highlands
Getting There & Around: Inverness is well-connected by train from most major Scottish cities. And the views on the train ride are absolutely gorgeous as you come into the city! The city is much smaller than Edinburgh which makes it walkable… But, you may want to consider renting a car if you plan on exploring a lot of the Highlands (or book a tour like we did!).
Top Attractions:
- Inverness Castle: You can’t go into this Castle until renovations are complete, but it is a nice red sandstone castle to look at as it overlooks River Ness.
- Leakey’s Bookshop: This secondhand bookshop has all the cozy vibes because it is heated by a wood burning stove. Some say it is the largest secondhand bookstore in Scotland…
- Loch Ness: Venture to nearby Loch Ness for stunning natural scenery and perhaps a glimpse of the mythical Nessie. We sadly never saw Nessie when we were there.
- Urquhart Castle: Explore the dramatic ruins that overlook Loch Ness, providing one of the most picturesque scenes in Scotland.
- Isle of Skye: Our favorite day was a Highlands tour that took us all around the Isle of Skye. It is just absolutely gorgeous there – a must-see in my opinion!
Overall, we had an absolute blast in Scotland. Each region is different and offers so much to see/do (and eat!). Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or cultural enthusiast, Scotland invites you to explore its unique landscapes and legends. I would highly recommend adding this to your travel bucket list if you haven’t visited already… We are looking forward to traveling there again in the future. Where are you going on your next trip??
Love,
Jenna ♥
