Europe
Scotland
Europe
Scotland
Updated Jan 04, 2025
Overview
Scotland captivates with its dramatic landscapes, from the misty Highlands to serene lochs. Edinburgh's cobbled streets and majestic castle contrast with Glasgow's modern art scene. Whisky distilleries offer tastings of the country's famous spirit. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the West Highland Way or sail around the picturesque islands. History buffs will marvel at ancient stone circles and battlefields. For a local experience, attend a ceilidh dance or feast on haggis. Don't miss the chance to spot wildlife like red deer or puffins in their natural habitats.
Best time to visit. Visit May to September for milder weather and longer daylight hours. August brings Edinburgh's famous festivals, while September offers stunning autumn colors in the Highlands. Winter visitors can experience magical snowy landscapes and cozy pubs with roaring fires.
Cities
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Country stats
Population
5,439,842
118th
Land area
30,977 sq. mi.
115th
Highest elevation
4,413 ft
Currency
Pound sterling
Generally accepted payment methods
Mobile, Card, Cash
Total GDP
$273.716 billion
50th
GDP per capita
$49,936
21st
Year founded
843 CE
Official langauge
English
English speaking
Widely spoken
European Union
No
Schengen Area
No
Human development index
0.921
23rd
Timezone
Greenwich Mean (UTC+0)
Driving side
left
Capital
Edinburgh
Website
Google Maps link
| Month | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 43°F - 33°F | 39°F - 27°F | Cloudy | 8:44 am | 4:10 pm | 18 days 4.5 in | 5 days 1.5 in | 13 mph |
| February | 44°F - 33°F | 41°F - 28°F | Partly Cloudy | 7:58 am | 5:07 pm | 15 days 3.3 in | 4 days 1.0 in | 13 mph |
| March | 48°F - 36°F | 45°F - 32°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:52 am | 6:06 pm | 16 days 3.4 in | 2 days 0.2 in | 13 mph |
| April | 52°F - 39°F | 50°F - 36°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:38 am | 7:06 pm | 13 days 2.3 in | 1 days 0.0 in | 11 mph |
| May | 58°F - 44°F | 57°F - 42°F | Partly Cloudy | 4:35 am | 8:06 pm | 12 days 2.5 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 11 mph |
| June | 63°F - 49°F | 62°F - 48°F | Partly Cloudy | 4:06 am | 8:50 pm | 11 days 2.6 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 11 mph |
| July | 66°F - 52°F | 65°F - 51°F | Partly Cloudy | 4:27 am | 8:42 pm | 12 days 3.2 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 11 mph |
| August | 65°F - 52°F | 64°F - 51°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:20 am | 7:47 pm | 13 days 3.6 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 11 mph |
| September | 61°F - 48°F | 60°F - 46°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:16 am | 6:38 pm | 14 days 3.8 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 11 mph |
| October | 55°F - 44°F | 53°F - 41°F | Cloudy | 7:13 am | 5:29 pm | 16 days 4.6 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 13 mph |
| November | 48°F - 38°F | 45°F - 33°F | Cloudy | 8:10 am | 4:28 pm | 17 days 4.3 in | 1 days 0.1 in | 13 mph |
| December | 44°F - 34°F | 40°F - 28°F | Cloudy | 8:50 am | 3:57 pm | 17 days 4.5 in | 3 days 0.6 in | 13 mph |
| Name | Date | Description | Travel rating | Closure rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | January 1 | Celebration of the new year with parties, fireworks, and traditional Scottish customs. | Best to avoid unless joining festivities. | ||
| Burns Night | January 25 | Celebration of Scottish poet Robert Burns with haggis, whisky, and poetry readings. | Good time to experience Scottish culture. | ||
| Good Friday | Varies (March/April) | Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Many businesses closed. | Some closures, but still okay to visit. | ||
| Easter Monday | Varies (March/April) | Day after Easter Sunday. Banks and some businesses closed. Family-oriented holiday. | Moderate impact, but generally fine to visit. | ||
| Early May Bank Holiday | First Monday in May | Public holiday with some business closures. Often marks the start of summer events. | Busy, but good time for outdoor activities. | ||
| Spring Bank Holiday | Last Monday in May | Public holiday with some business closures. Often features local events and festivals. | Good time to visit, but expect crowds. | ||
| Glasgow Fair | Last two weeks of July | Traditional holiday period in Glasgow. Many locals on vacation. Some business closures. | Good time to visit, less crowded in Glasgow. | ||
| Edinburgh Festival Fringe | August (3 weeks) | World's largest arts festival. Edinburgh bustling with performances and visitors. | Exciting but crowded. Book accommodations early. | ||
| Summer Bank Holiday | First Monday in August | Public holiday in Scotland. Some business closures. Often marks end of summer break. | Busy, but good for enjoying summer events. | ||
| St. Andrew's Day | November 30 | Scotland's national day. Celebration of Scottish culture with events and festivals. | Great time to experience Scottish culture. | ||
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Christian holiday and public holiday. Most businesses and attractions closed. | Best to avoid unless seeking quiet holiday. | ||
| Boxing Day | December 26 | Public holiday following Christmas. Many businesses still closed. Shopping sales start. | Quiet day, good for relaxed sightseeing. | ||
| Hogmanay | December 31 | Scottish New Year's Eve celebration. Large street parties and fireworks in cities. | Exciting but crowded. Book accommodations early. |
1 | Tipping isn't expected in Scotland. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often added to the bill. For exceptional service, you can round up or leave a small extra amount. |
2 | Scots are known for their friendliness. Don't be surprised if strangers strike up conversations in pubs or on public transport. Engage in friendly banter to experience Scottish hospitality. |
3 | When invited to someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift like flowers or a bottle of whisky. Avoid bringing wine, as Scots generally prefer their national drink. |
4 | Respect the Scottish landscape. Follow the 'Leave No Trace' principles when hiking or camping. Stay on marked paths and don't disturb wildlife or natural formations. |
5 | Learn the difference between England and Scotland. Scots are proud of their distinct identity. Avoid referring to Scotland as part of England or calling Scottish people 'English'. |
6 | Try haggis, the national dish, at least once. It's often served with 'neeps and tatties' (turnips and potatoes). Vegetarian versions are available if you prefer a meat-free option. |
7 | Respect the Sabbath in rural areas and islands. Some businesses may be closed on Sundays. Plan ahead and be mindful of local customs, especially in more traditional communities. |
8 | Be prepared for changeable weather. The Scottish saying goes, 'If you don't like the weather, wait five minutes.' Pack layers and a waterproof jacket, even in summer. |
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