I visited Scotland in autumn, and I’m convinced there’s no better time to visit. Orange and yellow leaves accent the streets and the gloomy weather adds to Scotland’s already cozy demeanor. You’ll also see fewer crowds during the spring and autumn rather than the peak summer months.
Rainfall is common year round in the UK, but you will see a few more dry days in the spring and summer. The good weather makes for an excellent time to explore the Scottish Highlands!
Scottish winters can be pretty cold and dreary, with the sun setting early in the afternoon. Unless you’re a lover of the cold (I’m not), I would probably steer clear of visiting during the winter months!
Getting Around
The train system is fantastic for getting between major cities! Cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow are quite walkable, so you won’t need a car!
If you’re venturing out into the Highlands, you can either use the coach buses to get around, or rent a car for more flexibility!
Travel Requirements
All you need to enter the country is a valid passport!
If you’re renting a car, you will need a valid drivers license. All drivers licenses in the Roman alphabet are accepted. However, if your license from your home country is in a non-Roman alphabet (ex. Japanese), an internal driver’s permit in English is required.
Know Before You Go
AIRPORT | Edinburgh (EDI)
CURRENCY |Pound Sterling
PLUG TYPE | Type G
LANGUAGE |English
PHONE COVERAGE | All major US carriers offer coverage here. You can also purchase an EE or Vodafone eSim to avoid daily fees associated with international roaming.
SUSTAINABLE + ETHICAL TRAVEL IN SCOTLAND
Utilize public transportation whenever possible to help reduce emissions.
Respect historical monuments and buildings. Even just the oil on our fingers can be damaging to ancient materials!
Keep the Highlands green – stick to existing paths, do not touch or feed any animals you might come across, and always pick up after yourself (obviously).