10 Amazing Things You Need to See in Scotland

Long overshadowed by its Great Britain neighbors (we're looking at you, England), Scotland is a secret no more. From ancient castles to extinct volcanoes and yes, whisky tours, here are our favorite sights—and experiences—in Scotland.
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    Isle of Skye

    The largest island in the Inner Hebrides, the Isle of Skye is famous for its picturesque fishing villages, and medieval castles, and rugged, several-shades-of-green landscapes.

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    The Jacobite Steam Train

    Harry Potter fans, take note: The Jacobite, which has been operating every summer since 1984 as part of the West Highland Railway Line, has played the role of the Hogwarts Express, pictured onscreen crossing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

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    Highland Games

    Held every spring and summer throughout the country, the Highland Games are a celebration of all things Scottish and Celtic—think bagpipes, kilts, dancing, and traditional Scottish sports like the caber toss and hammer throw.

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    Loch Lomond

    Loch Ness may be more famous, but Loch Lomond, the largest inland stretch of water in Great Britain (by surface area), stands out for its islands (more than 30), scenery, and wildlife.

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    Callanish Stones, Outer Hebrides

    A collection of stone monuments erected approximately 3,000–4,000 years ago, the Callanish Stones are thought to have been used to mark significant points in the lunar cycle. According to one myth, however, they are petrified giants who refused to convert to Christianity.

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    Edinburgh's Architecture

    From the gleaming, modern Scottish Parliament Building to the grand Edinburgh Castle, so marvelous and varied is the city's architecture that it is worth at least a day of walking, stopping, and gazing. Edinburgh's Old Town and New Town together are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its skyline is said to have inspired George Gibson's set design for The Wizard of Oz.

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    Glasgow

    Edinburgh may be the Scottish capital, but Glasgow is the country's de facto capital of culture: here, you'll find the Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet, National Theatre of Scotland, and multiple world-renowned museums and galleries like Kelvingrove, pictured.

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    Whisky Distilleries

    In Scotland, few things are finer than drinking a whisky while taking in a view of the countryside. Head to one of the five whisky-producing regions (Campbeltown, Highland, Islay, Lowland, and Speyside) for a behind-the-scenes tour.

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    Arthur's Seat

    Climbing atop an extinct volcano is rare. Even rarer? Being able to hike to the top of an extinct volcano and have a commanding view of a capital city.

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    St. Andrews Cathedral

    Built in 1158, this Roman Catholic cathedral in St. Andrews today is largely ruined. It remains the largest church to have ever been built in Scotland.