Maybe you have parents or friends visiting soon and you want to explore Scotland together? Or you’ve been living here for a while but haven’t yet seen much of the country? This is your sign to plan some trips to make the most of your time in Scotland!
If travelling by car is an option for you, planning a full road trip is well worth it. The North Coast 500 route is a must, offering breathtaking landscapes at every turn, with the freedom to stop and explore wherever you fancy. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to visit remote locations, but if that’s not feasible, there are still plenty of places accessible by public transport.
The Erasmus Student Network organises a variety of day trips and weekend excursions for students. These trips are a hassle-free way to see multiple destinations in a short time, as everything from transportation to itinerary planning is taken care of. If you prefer to travel independently, Scotland’s extensive rail network connects many major destinations. Direct trains run between cities like Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen, and Inverness, making city trips easy and convenient. Nature lovers may find it trickier to access some more remote locations, but there are still plenty of scenic spots reachable by public transport.
While Loch Ness is one of Scotland’s most famous destinations, it can feel overrated. Other lochs like Loch Lomond and Loch Morlich offer even more stunning views and a more tranquil experience. For those keen on exploring Scotland’s islands, options abound. The Isle of Mull, the Isle of Harris, and the Isle of Skye each boast breathtaking landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. On the way to the Isle of Skye, Eilean Donan Castle is another must-visit, standing on a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet, making it one of the most picturesque castles in Scotland. The Cairngorms National Park is another fantastic choice, with Aviemore serving as a great gateway for adventure. Surrounded by forests and beaches, Aviemore offers activities such as sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and mountain biking.
Glencoe is another must-see for its dramatic mountain scenery, while history enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to Stonehaven and Dunnottar Castle. A direct train to Stonehaven makes it an easy day trip, and from there, a short hike leads to the stunning clifftop ruins of Dunnottar Castle, set against the backdrop of the open sea. For charming fishing villages, St Abbs is a hidden gem. Fun fact: it’s where Harry Styles filmed his music video for “Golden”. To reach St Abbs, take a train to Berwick-upon-Tweed and then a bus. In St Abbs, the coastal hike to St Abbs Head provides spectacular views, and if you walk further to St Abbs Lighthouse and Pettico Wick Harbour, you might even spot seals.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a full road trip, or just a quick day trip, Scotland has no shortage of incredible places to explore—even without a car.
Photo provided by Maximiliane Scheller