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Built around the stunning centrepiece of Edinburgh Castle, Scotland's ancient capital is one of the world's most picturesque cities, and you're never far from a vista that will stop you in your tracks. Hit the shops at Princes Street and check out Holyrood Palace, then visit the world famous Botanical Gardens and hike to the top of Arthur's Seat for impressive views of the city and the Pentland Firth.
The world famous Edinburgh Festival is actually a collection of individual events taking place for the whole month of August - during which the city's population doubles! The Festival sees the Scottish capital into a world hub for performers of dance, music, comedy and street theatre. A unique atmosphere, and a real must-do.
For more information on the Edinburgh Festival, click here.
Belladrum
Held in the stunning Belladrum estate in the Scottish Highlands near Inverness, this annual festival is host to an excellent blend of Scottish and international artists, with the likes of the Kaiser Chiefs, The Proclaimers and King Creosote treading the boards.
For more information on the Tartan Heart Festival, click here.
Fairlie
Glasgow
Edinburgh
Explore the art, design, science, technology and Scottish history, all in one building in Edinburgh. Over 40 galleries of this museum contain items from all over Scotland and beyond, including the taxidermy remains of Dolly the Sheep, Viking brooches, ancient chessmen and Queen Mary's clarsach.
The museum located in Huntly House focuses on the history of the city and the crafts and industries for which it became so well-known. In exploring the Museum’s maze of 16th century buildings, you will see iconic items, beautiful objects and learn fascinating facts and gruesome tales. The entry is free, by the way!
Edinburgh
As one of Scotand’s top free tourist attraction, this museum houses Scotland’s national collection of fine art from the early Renaissance to the end of the nineteenth century. Spend some time strolling around this peaceful setting and you’ll find masterpieces from Raphael, Velázquez and Vermeer to Monet, Cézanne and Van Gogh.
Glasgow
Glasgow
Scotland's famed national dish is traditionally made from sheep's stomach stuffed with onions, oatmeal and various unmentionable meat products, but don't let that put you off. Served with neeps (mashed turnips) and tatties (mashed potatoes), it's truly delicious and a Scotland food must-try.
Best eaten at
Arcade Bar, Haggis & Whisky House, 48 Cockburn St, Old Town, Edinburgh
This hearty, creamy soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions is the country's favourite, and a common staple of restaurants in Scotland. Grab some crusty bread and get stuck in!
Best eaten at
Babbity Bowster, 16-18 Blackfriars St, Glasgow
Hailing from the town of Arbroath, this delicious preserved fish is a towering figure in the world of Scottish food. A salted, dried and smoked haddock, it's a Scotland travel must-try.
Best eaten at
Iain Spink’s Original Smokies, Forehills Farmhouse, Carmyllie, By Arbroath
This indulgent traditional dessert contains raspberries, whipped cream, oatmeal, honey and - naturally - whisky. A further glass of the Scottish national spirit will help wash it down a treat.
Best eaten at
The Old School Restaurant, Dunvegan, Isle of Skye
Such is the name given to fish & chips in Scotland, and it's extremely popular here. Order it in Edinburgh and they'll offer you 'salt & sauce', not salt & vinegar - the sauce is a delicious blend of brown sauce and vinegar that everyone should try!
Best eaten at
Marchmont Takeaway, 98 Marchmont Rd, Edinburgh
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© Copyright 2025 Contiki. All Rights Reserved. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is a trademark of The TreadRight Foundation, registered in the U.S. and other countries and regions, and is being used under license.