1 Week in Scotland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Best of Scotland: Edinburgh & the Highlands

From walking through castles to visiting famous geological sites, this complete tour of Scotland gives you a chance to appreciate the best of what this picturesque country has to offer.

Put on your walking shoes and explore Edinburgh like the locals. Stop to take in sights like the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and Edinburgh Castle. A day in Inverness includes visits to Stirling Castle and Blair Castle, both of which look even more impressive in person. After a sound night's sleep in a historic hotel in Culloden, spend your fourth day in Scotland taking in the scenery as you travel east toward the area where the TV series "Highlander" was famously filmed. 

Beauty is the theme of day five, with The Old Man of Storr providing the perfect backdrop for a photo with your traveling companions. Plus, Neist Point has spectacular ocean views that deserve a snapshot. While a day in Glencoe lets you appreciate its towering mountains and grassy hills, it also teaches you about its dark history. Fly home with memories and photos of Scotland's top tourist destinations. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Scenic Scotland: Edinburgh, Inverness & Skye

By the time you board your return flight, you'll have completed an exciting list of excursions on a scenic vacation that begins and ends in the capital and takes you into the Scottish Highlands.

Touch down in Edinburgh and begin with a walking tour accompanied by a local photographer who takes you on a unique city tour. Make sure to stop at Holyrood Palace, the royal residence for more than three centuries, as well as Old Town, which makes you feel like you've been transplanted into the medieval era. Foodies have three hours to learn about Scotland's traditional dishes and techniques on a tasty culinary tour that includes samplings of smoked salmon, haddock, and other locally caught seafood. Then it's off to the Highlands in your rental, starting with Inverness on the River Ness and an outing to historic Culloden Moor.

Day four features an eclectic mix of activities: learning about sheepskin production and leather making at Skyeskyns Tannery, a self-care session at the Skye Serenity Spa, and a six-course tasting menu at Three Chimneys. Then, sample locally made whiskies from three distilleries located on two beautiful islands. Finally, return to Edinburgh for an immersive tour led by a local historian before enjoying your last night in Scotland. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Luxury Scottish Highlights: Aviemore, Inverness & Oban

Prepare to be pampered on a luxurious getaway that takes you from the countryside to a seaside spa.

Begin your week in Scotland with a guided tour of Bannockburn, an expansive battlefield that holds a special place in the nation's storied history. Your journey continues with a safari-style experience at Cairngorms National Park, home to rare plant and animal life. Then, let a local ghillie (Highland fishing guide) give you a lesson before casting your line on day three's wild river fishing excursion. 

After an active start to your trip, catch up on some well-deserved relaxation at a luxury country house hotel and spa located on the banks of the River Ness. Once you've enjoyed a massage or facial, soak up some sun as you cruise along the Caledonian Canal to the famous waters of Loch Ness. A west coast boat tour on day six sets the stage for a final evening at a hotel in Oban that features an award-winning restaurant and spa. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Hiking the Scottish Highlands

There's no shortage of photo opportunities on this week-long hiking adventure through Scotland's famous Highlands and renowned national parks.

While your trip starts in the city, you're already exploring the countryside by the second day. Things continue to ramp up on day three with the first of several hiking outings, the first of which includes a tour and sampling of single malt whiskies produced by the iconic Macallan Distillery. Get an intimate look at local wildlife at the Abernathy National Nature Reserve and Loch Garten during your time in the Cairngorms.

A full day of hiking through the beautiful valley of Glen Feshie is next, followed by countryside excursions in the 18th-century town of Pitlochry. Complete another hike, visit Blair Castle and Gardens, or snap photos from Queen's View. Wrap up your active week in nature at Trossachs National Park, home to unique birdlife, serene lakes, and flowing rivers. Learn more

Itinerary #5: Scottish Wildlife Adventure: Mull, Staffa & Iona

Animal lovers can learn more about Scotland's diverse wildlife during an interactive journey full of hands-on experiences and unforgettable moments.

Meet your guide at Oban train station. Then, travel north and start your seven-day expedition by keeping a watchful eye out for seals and dolphins during your boat trip to Castle Stalker. On day two, look for otters playing in the waves as you go on a coastal hike on the Isle of Seil. Then, search the skies for sea eagles while you make your way around the Isle of Mull. 

Bring extra clothes for your next excursion, as the trip to the Isle of Staffa and its iconic basalt columns could get wet. On your way back to Mull, scan the waters for porpoises, minke whales, or even basking sharks. The final day of your trip takes you to the tiny island of Iona to visit a site that's thought to be the final resting place of 48 ancient Scottish kings. One last hike through woodlands and grasslands is the perfect ending to this fantastic week in nature. Learn more

More Great Scotland Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Scotland? Check out these other Scotland itineraries, with outdoor adventures, castle visits, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.