Tips for visiting Scotland

What is the weather like in Scotland?

Scotland's weather changes fast, sometimes within the same afternoon. Pack layers no matter what season you're traveling in.

Summer runs from June through August, with highs typically in the mid to upper 60s Fahrenheit. It rarely gets hot, but the days are wonderfully long. In June, you'll still have light in the sky past 10pm. Winter is a different story. Highs hover around freezing, colder once you're up in the Highlands. Snow is common on the mountains from November through April.

Do I need cash in Scotland?

Credit cards work almost everywhere in Scotland now, including small cafes and market stalls. Contactless payments are accepted up to £100 without needing a PIN.

You'll notice Scottish banknotes look different from the ones you might already recognize from a trip to London. Scottish banks print their own bills, and they're accepted everywhere in Scotland without a second thought. We still recommend carrying some cash, especially if you're heading into the Highlands. Small villages and family-run B&Bs sometimes prefer cash, and it's good to have on hand if a card reader goes down.

As always, travel with a credit card that skips foreign transaction fees.

Getting around Scotland

ScotRail connects Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen with reliable service, and trains are a relaxing way to see the countryside between cities.

For the Highlands, we'd point you toward renting a car. It gives you the freedom to reach castles, glens, and lochs that trains simply don't go near.

One thing to know before you drive in the Highlands: many roads are single track, with small pull-off spots called passing places. Distances that look short on a map can take much longer than you'd expect once you're on these winding roads.

Welcome to our Scotland page

Below you’ll find a collection our our Scotland travel blog posts and some helpful Scotland travel tips.

Our Scotland Blog Posts: