A trip to visit to Scotland is often a once in a lifetime experience and can be magical. Here’s a list of things to do if you visit.
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Linger in Edinburgh
Begin on the Royal Mile, famous for its historic landmarks and quirky little shops, before heading down to the New Town . Just a single day here will give you a great taste of the Royal Mile and the great Castle. If you can get in another day, you will have time to settle down and explore the great sites. A third day here will allow you plenty of time to appreciate the beauty and culture of one of Britain’s finest cities. If this all interests you then you’ll need to find Edinburgh hotel breaks to make the most out of your trip.
But Don’t Miss Glasgow
The second biggest city in Scotland is very underrated but has plenty to offer the visitor. It is the working-class pie-filling to Edinburgh’s posh upper-crust. This is the place to go for lively nightlife and delicious foods. You will also enjoy some spectacular architecture, a fresh and vibrant downtown and one of the most impressive collections of museums you could hope for.
Toss a Caber at a Highland Games
This is a traditional Scottish Summer celebrations and a great way to oak up some culture. Kind of like a small county fair, complete with dance competitions and track meets, these festive celebrations can be glitzy or small-town charm. This is when all the town gets together to socialize with the rest of the community and gorge on tasty treats like a deep-fried Mars bar. They also cheer on the strongmen, traditional dancers and footraces. If you will be visiting Scotland in the summer, this is a spectacle you don’t want to miss. Be sure to check the schedule and pencil this special date into your itinerary.
Enjoy the Clichés…but Dig Deeper
Haggis and whisky with kilts and bagpipes are among the most Scottish things you can think of. But, hunting cliché can get old quickly and there are too many vendors looking to sell you a knockoff kilt. Better take time to understand the deep and fascinating stories behind these cliché items. For example, visit an authentic kilt maker while on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh and learn the true difference between a top-quality tweed and a cheapo tartan-tat. Take time to visit a true whiskey distillery and develop a deeper appreciation for this classic drink in all its subtle variety. If you have time and a keen ear for music, try playing a tune on bagpipes and develop a great respect for those who have sacrificed their left ear (literally) for the love of this traditional instrument. And taste the haggis — it’s delicious.
Hunt for Ghosts
The ghosts of Scotland are everywhere and haunted tours are a favorite activity. You will find haunted trees, spooky castles and every B&B you find will have tales about things that go bump in the night. Whether or not you believe in the veracity of ghosts and spooks will be up to you.
Go to the Movies
Outlander was responsible for bringing in a slew of travelers from far and wide. But this was hardly the first flick that introduced Scotland to international pop-culture. From Braveheart and Rob Roy to Monty Python and James Bond, Scotland has a strong presence in show-business. Adding these movies to your trip, before, during and after can help you enhance the enjoyment and appreciation for all you will see and do in Scotland.
Take a Hike…and Bring Good Shoes
Take some time to tromp over grassy expanses is as fun as watching your feet and shoes disappear into a puddle of brown water. But if you have brought a robust pair of waterproof shoes, you will thrill to the amazing beauty and surroundings of a Scottish glen. I was lucky enough to enjoy the views of Glencoe, but the opportunities to hike through Scotland abound. Just be sure to dress for the activity.
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