Scotland's bucket list ideas

Come face to face with the shaggy-haired stars of the Scottish Highlands, some of Scotland's most recognisable residents. Our iconic Highland cows – or 'coos' as they are adorably known – are hardy, docile, and so lovable that it's almost impossible to not fall in love with them! 

Take your time to savour this experience. Wander through a field or across a farm and listen to the gentle sound of the animals. Get up close and see their long coats blowing in the breeze, curious eyes covered by their long fringes and huge horns. Make sure you get your camera in hand and get snapping! 

They originate from the Scottish Highlands but you’ll find them right across Scotland, including the Macallan Estate (where the Macallan Distillery is) in Moray Speyside, which has its own herd, Muiravonside Country Park in Falkirk (there is a wide range of animals at the farm, including Highland cattle at the Newparks Farm), and Kitchen Coos and Ewes near Newton Stewart, where you can go on a buggy tour of the farm to meet the Highland cows (and sheep). 

See more places to meet a Highland cow 

Not much can rival a train ride in Scotland. Simply climb aboard, find your seat by the window and just sit back in comfort. No matter which line you travel on, there is something relaxing about the gentle clattering sound of the wheels as the train takes a bend along the meandering tracks.  

Scotland is home to some of the world’s most iconic railway journeys. Picture soaking up the stunning mountain views, the sun glistening on a loch, passing by a charming town with welcoming locals. Whatever your destination, you'll feel recharged just by a journey itself. 

Some of the most picturesque train journeys around Scotland include the West Highland Line, which passes over the atmospheric Rannoch Moor and along Loch Shiel, Loch Eilt and Ben Nevis. You might recognise some of the spots featured in the Harry Potter films. Borders Railway is a line that passes over and through 140 bridges and tunnels, including the majestic Newbattle (sometimes called Lothianbridge) Viaduct in Newtongrange and the beautiful Redbridge Viaduct near Tweedbank. There is also the spectacular Kyle Line which traverses through Plockton, a charming town with a sheltered harbour, where views stretch across Loch Carron towards the rugged peaks of the Applecross mountains, with fishing boats drifting on the water. Or why not jump on the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway, a heritage railway that offers the chance to ride on a vintage steam or diesel-hauled engine along the Forth Estuary, through woodlands, past waterfalls and over the Avon Viaduct. The options are endless. 

Plan your Scottish train adventure

If you're looking to disconnect from the hustle of everyday life, it's easy to do in Scotland. Just pack your backpack, pull on your boots and set off into the wild, where every turn brings in breathtakingly peaceful Scottish scenery. 

Many people dream of bagging a Munro (climbing a hill over 3,000 ft) while in Scotland, but for an alternative bucket list experience, why not pick a long-distance walking route to follow? Spend a few days or a week following one of our longer trails. As you hike, breathe in the fresh mountain air, the scent of pine, or the earthy but sweet smell of heather in the hills.  

Take on the West Island Way (30 miles), crossing the picturesque Isle of Bute where you can take the weekend to explore secluded beaches, windswept moorlands and rustling forest. Or follow the epic Speyside Way (85 miles) along the beautiful River Spey, either starting in the Moray coast or in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park in Aviemore. For a wilder challenge, head to the west coast and follow the Hebridean Way (155 miles) stretching from Vatersay to the Butt of Lewis and walk beside rugged hills, turquoise waters and white-sand beaches, or walk through the open hills along the Southern Upland Way (212 miles) from the west of Dumfries & Galloway to the east of the Scottish Borders.  

Praised for its individual character, the Outer Hebrides have been named one of the ‘Best of the World’ destinations for travellers in 2025 by National Geographic. Add this region to your must-visit places on your Scottish adventure! 

Walk Scotland’s long-distance routes 

A Highland games has an unmistakable vibe, and it must be experienced to truly appreciate its atmosphere. It's also a great way to learn about Scotland – how we’re competitive but welcoming, creative yet historic, and mostly a whole lot of fun!  

Find a spot amongst the crowds and watch the competitors in kilts take on the traditional games, from caber tossing to tug o’ war and hammer throw. Join in on the cheering as they battle it out or listen in to the skirl of the bagpipes drifting in the backdrop as the dancers perform traditional dances. It’s one of Scotland's great traditions and a fantastic way to spend a day outdoors and to mix with all the locals.  

There are some great events to choose from. In Aberdeenshire, there is the famous Braemar Gathering which is regularly attended by the reigning monarch when visiting nearby Balmoral Castle. In Argyll, Cowal Highland Gathering is renowned for the quality of its Highland dancing, while Inveraray Highland Games takes place in the grounds of a stunning castle. 

Find out more about Highland games in Scotland 

Scottish driving routes are begging to be explored. Turn up the music, wind down the window and follow Scotland's winding roads through magnificent scenery, tiny villages and unforgettable views. 

One moment you're passing through a quiet Highland village, the next, just round the corner, you're driving along a vast loch with mountains reflecting in the water. The beauty of a road trip is that you can pull over anytime you want and take in the changing views, so make sure to leave enough time to stop off in local communities and take the less travelled roads off the main circuit. 

Scotland has a whole range of driving routes. Follow the coast through Dumfries & Galloway along the South West Coastal 300 and admire rugged shorelines and sandy beaches, or head along the rolling countryside of the Clyde Valley Tourist Route, with wooded hills and the River Clyde. Alternatively, cross the Cairngorms along the spectacular Snow Roads Scenic Route, packed with sweeping valleys and breathtaking viewpoints along the way. You don’t need four wheels to tackle these – many of the routes can be cycled as well. 

Discover panoramic driving routes

It doesn't get more Scottish that going Nessie-spotting in Scotland. Head out to the mysterious waters of Loch Ness near Inverness and prepare to spend your journey looking for something... you might not even see. On a boat cruise, watch the dark vast waters stretch ahead of you and scan the surface for ripples and shadows, and possibly distinctive green humps. Half of the fun of looking for Nessie is not knowing if she really lurks beneath! 

Even if you're not lucky enough to see her, there is plenty you can spot in the surrounding countryside back on the land – look out for red squirrels, roe deer, dragonflies, and ospreys. Or travel amongst the charming villages and admire the beautiful rolling countryside, including the ruins of Urquhart Castle in Drumnadrochit. 

Want to tick more lochs off your list? Check out Loch Maree – the south shore of this loch is Beinn Eighe, the UK’s oldest National Nature Reserve, or Loch Muick which lies within the Balmoral Estate beside King Charles’ much-loved mountain, Lochnagar, while at Loch Tay you'll find the recently reconstructed Scottish Crannog Centre, which celebrates an ancient Iron Age settlement. 

Take a tour of Scotland’s lochs

Fancy discovering the places that have appeared on the big screen? Scotland is a land of myths and legends, full of atmospheric, shifting landscapes, so it's no wonder that it's provided the backdrop to some incredible films and TV shows. 

Stand amongst the landscapes that you've seen in the big-hitters like Outlander at Doune Castle, Culross and Falkland; relieve scenes from the Harry Potter series crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct route; or follow in the footsteps of cinematic gems like Local Hero and Macbeth.   

Stay in a castle and channel your inner Traitors impression, visiting some majestic stately homes that featured in The Buccaneers, or lose yourself in the magic of our stone circles and forests like Merida in Disney Pixar's Brave.  

Explore film & TV locations in Scotland 

This list was created by VisitScotland to showcase a range of experiences. It isn’t ranked in any specific order.