10 TOP Things to Do in Scotland August 2026

A waterfall in a mountainous landscape with clear water flowing into a pool.

A cityscape with a prominent cathedral spire and a castle-like structure silhouetted against a sunset.

A historic cityscape with a prominent castle and clock tower.

A cityscape at dusk with historic buildings, a prominent clock tower, and a lake in the background.

An ornate church interior with a high vaulted ceiling, large chandeliers, and a central organ.

Things to do

Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour

City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free Offer

฿852

per adult

92% of travellers recommend

SEA LIFE Loch Lomond

฿701

per adult

100% of travellers recommend

Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle Guided History Tour with Tickets

฿1,703

per adult

98% of travellers recommend

Palace of Holyroodhouse Admission Ticket

฿986

per adult

88% of travellers recommend

The Edinburgh Dungeon Tour

฿942

per adult

94% of travellers recommend

Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe and The Highlands

฿2,600

per adult

98% of travellers recommend

Scottish Football Museum and Hampden Park Stadium Tour

฿672

per adult

100% of travellers recommend

Loch Lomond: Scottish Highlands Sightseeing Cruise

฿859

per adult

98% of travellers recommend

2 Day Isle Of Skye Self Guided Driving Tour from Portree

฿836

per adult

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Top places to visit

1. Royal Mile

Go for a sightseeing trip along the Royal Mile, a series of streets that forms the main artery of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the oldest part of the city. This ancient cobblestone route stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It has been used by pedestrians for hundreds of years, and houses some of the city’s most fascinating old buildings.

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A cobblestone street lined with historic buildings, including a Gothic church and a classical building with arches.

2. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle, the oldest building in the city, sits high on a craggy volcanic rock just near the city center. During its history, which spans almost a thousand years, the stronghold has witnessed sieges, served as a military base and provided refuge for Scottish monarchs.

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A historic castle on a hill with a statue in the foreground.

3. OVO Hydro

The SSE Hydro, an iconic, elliptical building on the banks of the River Clyde, is one of the busiest concert venues in the world. The 12,000-seat arena fills up quickly, with fans gathering to see the high-caliber guests who perform here. Join the crowds to experience the electric atmosphere and to sing along with your favorite band.

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A modern architectural building with a curved glass facade and a green-lit interior.

4. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, just a 1-hour drive north of Glasgow. The villages in the area are steeped in history and legend, and locally sourced food takes pride of place at many of the local restaurants.

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A castle surrounded by dense green trees and hills.

5. University of Edinburgh

Explore the campuses of the University of Edinburgh and soak up the academic atmosphere in its museums and galleries. Sights such as the quad of the Georgian Old College and the Gothic towers of New College on the Mound are iconic parts of the cityscape.

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A historic building with a central dome and symmetrical wings.

6. Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the United Kingdom. In the western portion of the Grampian Mountains, the picturesque giant dominates the skyline and overlooks several lakes. Join the many hikers and mountaineers who battle the elements year-round to conquer the mountain.

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A mountainous landscape with a lake, a town, and rolling hills.

What to do in Scotland

Stay near popular Scotland attractions

Royal Mile

9.4/10 (9,742 reviews)

Explore this area in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town to find ancient buildings, historic relics, shops, museums and range of dining options.

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Where to stay in Scotland

Find the best Scotland areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Scotland

A bustling street with historic buildings, a clock tower, and outdoor seating at a pub.

Old Town Edinburgh

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle – discover Old Town Edinburgh, a destination also famous for its shopping.

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A cityscape with a prominent monument featuring columns and a dome, surrounded by historic buildings and a clear sky.

Edinburgh City Centre

If you're spending time in Edinburgh City Centre, check out sights like Royal Mile or Edinburgh Castle and hop on the metro to see more of the city at St Andrew Square Tram Stop or Princes Street Tram Stop.

A grand, illuminated building with multiple towers and a central monument in a square.

City Centre Glasgow

Known for its fantastic nightlife and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in City Centre Glasgow. Check out top attractions like Buchanan Street and Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, and jump on the metro at Buchanan Street Station or St Enoch Station to see more of the city.

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A Gothic-style clock tower with a statue at its base, illuminated by warm lights.

New Town

Travellers love New Town for its popular shops, and you can see more of Edinburgh by jumping on the metro at Princes Street Tram Stop or St Andrew Square Tram Stop. You might spend time checking out top sights like Assembly Rooms and George Street.

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A historic castle with multiple towers and a moat.

Inverness City Centre

The fantastic nightlife and stunning river views are just a few highlights of Inverness City Centre. Make a stop by Inverness Castle or Victorian Market while you're exploring the area.