5 Days of iconic attractions and hidden gems in Scotland

For your perfect first day in Edinburgh, there’s a mix of iconic attractions and a few hidden gems to discover. See the city from above, visit the legendary castle, pause for a sly gin and tonic or enjoy a delicious meal by the coast.

• Calton Hill – the whole city can be admired in all directions from the top of this hill, including key landmarks – Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh Castle and the Three Bridges. There are views across the Firth of Forth in one direction and the Pentland Hills in the other. The good news is, it’s a really quick wander, so you can pack in plenty of attractions throughout the day. 
• Gladstone’s Land – situated on the Royal Mile, get a glimpse into 17th century life inside a classic tenement building. All three floors have been lovingly restored, keeping the original painted ceilings from 1620 intact. Take a break on the ground floor and taste some delights in the ice cream parlour and café. 
• Edinburgh Castle – take in the views across the city and learn about the dramatic events which have played out between these ancient walls as you explore great halls, royal chambers, monuments and dungeons. To avoid disappointment, make sure to book your tickets far in advance for guaranteed entry. 
• South Queensferry – the seaside neighbourhood of South Queensferry is a lovely place to spend your day. Walk a section of the Shore Walk and discover some hidden beaches or sit back and relax at one of the waterfront pubs in the shadow of the Forth Bridges and enjoy food with a view!

Discover the historic landscapes of central Scotland. We recommend you hire a car, so you can explore the sights at your own pace. From a beautiful walk to a fascinating attraction, a distillery and even a spot of mountain biking, if the mood takes you that way!

• Dollar Glen – enjoy a peaceful walk through the ancient woodlands of Dollar Glen, in the shadow of the Ochil Hills. You’ll wander through landscapes loved by Scots for generations, with gorges, cascading waterfalls and the stunning fortress, Castle Campbell. 
• Bannockburn – changing Scotland’s history forever in 1314, Scotland’s great warrior king, Robert the Bruce, led Scotland to victory against King Edward II and the English army. The visitor experience puts you at the heart of the action with cutting-edge 3D technology. 
• Deanston Distillery – formerly a working mill, it is now famous for the glorious whisky it produces. Take a tour to find out how whisky is made. In Outlander, the historic buildings stand in for Jamie’s cousin’s wine warehouse on the docks of Le Havre. 
• Comrie Croft – mountain bikers are in for a treat. Hire a bike from Comrie Croft Bikes and set off along one of the custom-built trails through the forests of Perthshire. Comrie Croft has some amazing accommodation options too, if you’d like to spend the night somewhere quirky – they've got eco camping, safari tents (nordic katas) and a steading hostel.

Fill your smartphone or camera with beautiful pictures to take home with you. From Loch Lomond to Glencoe, and a few secret spots in between, stop and get to know some of Scotland’s most famous places.

• Clyde Sea Lochs Trail – this established driving route is well signposted and easy to follow and takes you into the heart of the coastal communities to the south west of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Start the route in Dumbarton or further north in Arrochar, with plenty to explore, including the beautiful 17th century village of Cardross. 
• Glencoe – driving through this deep-carved glen feels like you’re entering in a secret part of Scotland. Featured in Outlander’s opening credits and scenes from Skyfall, in the shadow of Buachaille Etive Mor. Pull into one of the parking spaces to absorb the atmosphere created by the towering peaks around you before popping into the Glencoe Visitor Centre. You can grab a bite to eat here before browsing the exhibition.

The Highlands is a magical place and it’s somewhere that everyone wants to see on their visit to Scotland. Find alternative ways to enjoy Loch Ness and venture eastwards to Moray Speyside to find out more about this lovely region.

• The Loch Ness 360° – this epic walking, cycling, running and outdoor activity trail loops the entire circumference of Loch Ness. A wonderful way to admire the loch from all angles and vantage points, the trail is perfect for Nessie spotting and a fabulous alternative way to see the loch. 
• Fort George – built in 1746, it is the mightiest artillery fortification in Britain and was used as the ultimate defence against the Jacobite rising. This impressive site is bristling with cannons, muskets, pikes, swords and ammunition. Explore the battlements and gain a fascinating insight into the 18th century military life. 
• Elgin – see the ruin of Elgin Cathedral, before enjoying a refreshment in a pub such as The Drouthy Cobbler or sitting down for a meal in a local restaurant. If the weather is pleasant, enjoy a short drive to one of the nearby beaches at Hopeman or Lossiemouth and wander along the sandy shoreline. 
• Macallan Distillery – after exploring Elgin, take the service 36 bus towards Dufftown and stop off for a dram or two. Book a tour and marvel at this modern distillery, with its uniquely designed roof and a state-of-the-art visitor centre and shop, where you can buy limited edition and new release bottles to take home. 

It’s hard not to be enchanted by Scotland’s glorious east coast. Discover one of Scotland’s most incredible castles, one of our coolest cities, Dundee, the long golden sands of St Andrews and the quaint fishing villages of the East Neuk.

• Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire – the well-preserved ruins of Dunnottar Castle are perched on a dramatic cliff some 160 ft above the North Sea. This once impregnable fortress was visited by legendary historic figures including William Wallce, Mary Queen of Scots, Oliver Cromwell and in more recent times, Mel Gibson in Franco Zeffirelli's 1991 film, Hamlet. It is also said to be the inspiration for the DunBroch family home in Disney Pixar's Brave. If you're lucky enough, you may even see puffins or dolphins from the castle ramparts.
• V&A Dundee – the first V&A museum outside of London, see world-class examples of design, from architecture, fashion and furniture to video games and even healthcare. It also offers a tempting café and lovely gift shop. 
• St Andrews, Fife – take time to roam the pretty university town, taking in the castle, admiring the impressive, ruined cathedral and, of course, hitting the famous West Sands beach! Feeling a little parched? Make your way to Eden Mill, craft producers of both beer and gin, for a tour and tasting session. You can also visit Kingsbarns Distillery, one of the country’s newest distilleries. 
• Pittenweem, East Neuk of Fife – take the X61 or 95 bus service from St Andrews to pass through stunning scenery. This town is located along the Fife Coastal Path and offers a picturesque route around the coastal towns and villages of Fife. Wander to the pier to see colourful bobbing boats or walk up Cove Wynd to find the tiny St Fillan’s Cave, said to have been used as a chapel by the saint in the eighth century. 
• Anstruther, East Neuk of Fife – try the famous fish and chips, before visiting the town's Fisheries Museum. It's here you can hop on board The Reaper, a Fife sailing herring drifter featured in the TV series Outlander (access is available by prior arrangement).