8 Places in Scotland you must visit in 2026

Orkney 

Location: islands off the north coast of mainland Scotland

Venture north off mainland Scotland to the archipelago of Orkney. This incredible group of islands are so historic and rugged, it feels like stepping into a different time. The Heart of Neolithic Orkney is recognised by UNESCO for its prehistoric history, landmarks, monuments and excavations that give a true insight into island life centuries ago.

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Orkney, with warmer temperatures, calmer weather, and clearer skies that show off the islands in their best light. Slow down your travels with time spent relaxing by idyllic beaches you can find here – it can still be chilly on the coast, so it’s recommended to still wrap up warm. Enjoy day trips out to Orkney’s lesser-known islands, such as North Ronaldsay, Sanday and Rousay, where you can delve deeper into Scotland’s history.

Head to Stromness Museum to see the ‘Powered by People’ exhibition, open until 18 April 2026, for a deep dive into Orkney’s rich and evolving renewable energy heritage, alongside stories and tales of the people involved in this change.

Visit Orkney

Moray Speyside

Location: north east of Scotland

Get out on the road this summer to discover Scotland’s northeast delights. Just think beaches, bays, coastlines, watersports, and dolphins playing out to shore. You can find all of this and more in the magical region of Moray Speyside. Situated east of Inverness along the Moray Firth and down slightly towards the Highlands, you can find a unique blend of traditional Scottish countryside landscapes, and sparkling coastline.

Embark along the North East 250, a 250-mile circular route that explores all the nooks and crannies of the Moray Coast, Deeside, Moray Speyside and the Cairngorms National Park. Get ready for grand castles and stately homes, dramatic scenery, golden coastlines, Scotland’s malt whisky region and much more.

Visit Moray Speyside

North Highlands

Location: north of Scotland

Before the winter weather sets in, why not take a trip up to the north Highlands to explore Caithness and Sutherland? This largely untouched area of Scotland is like stepping into a different world with its dramatic landscapes, towering mountains, nature reserves and unique formations.

If you’re looking for a little adventure, why not follow along our first time solo trip to the area? Learn more about the train journey north, visit the northernmost town in the UK – Thurso, and embark on a guided tour with knowledgeable locals.

Along the way, stop in to visit the Flow Country World Heritage Site. This UNESCO site is home to an array of unique landscapes, including blanket bog, moorland, mountains, and straths. Visit the many towns and village in the area, such as John O’Groats, Tongue and Lairg, explore the RSPB Forsinard Flows NNR, head off on a guided tour to take in the most of the Flow Country, or enjoy an eco-friendly stay with breathtaking views.

Visit the North Highlands

Fife

Location: central Scotland

Head to Fife this festive season and tuck into an array of delicious local and seasonal produce that will get your tastebuds tingling! Dine out across the region where you’ll be met by Michelin Star standard at The Peat Inn near St Andrews, offering up contemporary cooking with the finest Scottish ingredients. Another notable mention is Haar Restaurant, which was a finalist on the acclaimed Masterchef: The Professionals. Elsewhere across the region you can find farm shops, large-scale markets, local ice-cream parlours, famed fish & chip shops, and much more that offer up an incredible range of locally-source produce and ingredients you need to try!

Another element of Fife you don’t want to miss out on is the golfing opportunities. With over 50 greens and fairways, Fife has something for everyone, from the complete beginner to the seasoned pros. From the world’s oldest golf clubhouse, Dunfermline, and the prestigious Fairmont St Andrews to Anstruther Golf Club which is widely acknowledged as one of Scotland’s best 9 hole courses, you really have it all here! Why not follow along a curated or bespoke itinerary of the courses if you’re not sure where to start?

Visit Fife

Of course that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Scotland’s must-visit destinations. These were just a few of the best places to visit across the seasons but the adventures don’t stop here. Where will you go next?