A Guide to Scotland's Cities

Scotland’s cities… where do we start? Our seven Scottish cities each boasts a welcoming atmosphere, fascinating culture, and hundreds of incredible attractions that you can explore by foot, bike, bus or car. One minute you could be walking down medieval streets, visiting top attractions and chatting to the friendly locals and the next you could be wandering through the glorious countryside, surrounded by glistening lochs and towering mountains.

The capital city, Edinburgh, is where past and present collide. Filled to the brim with fascinating attractions, it’s a place where prehistoric volcanos, medieval streets and buildings and modern architecture meet – you won’t be lost for something to gaze in awe at. Summer in Edinburgh is on a whole other level. Our streets are overflowing with acts, performances, and vibrant colours, with something new around every corner during Edinburgh summer festivals. Our winter festivals are a real gem too – market stalls filled with mince pies, mulled wine, and Christmas-y gift, complete with a warm atmosphere that’ll last for days.

Glasgow is a cultural hub, and it’s perfect if you love music, an arty vibe, and eclectic bars and pubs amongst other things. With hundreds of creative venues, you won’t miss out on shows and performances that take place throughout the year. Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music, so you are bound to come across a few up and coming musicians and bands whilst you are here. Aside from the brilliant events programme, uncover the fascinating museums, quirky vintage and boutique shops, striking architecture, diverse art galleries and much more across the city.

Stirling used to be Scotland’s capital, up until 1437, and has been the setting of some major historic moments, including the Battle of Bannockburn and the many dramas of Stirling Castle. Explore the pubs, bars and restaurants where you can taste some delicious local produce and soak up the lively nightlife.

Dundee is stacked full of culture and it’s the UK’s first UNESCO City of Design, meaning it has lots of creative spaces, quirky buildings and boasts a fun and friendly vibe. Next door, Perth is a beautiful city, located only an hour away from Edinburgh, and is sprinkled with fascinating historic attractions, exhibitions, theatres, galleries, museums and more to explore.

On the east coast, Aberdeen is full of stunning granite buildings and architecture that dates back centuries, along with a stunning seafront and harbour where you can often spot the resident pod of dolphins playing in the waves.

And in the north, Inverness is Scotland’s most northerly city and is often known as the ‘capital of the Highlands’. The city is entwined with Outlander connections, so if you are a fan of the TV show, Inverness should definitely be stopping point for you.

Visiting Scotland’s cities is a must do. There are a variety to choose from and each feature a unique character to explore, along with exciting things to see and do in each.

City Breaks - https://www.visitscotland.com/holiday...
Edinburgh – https://www.visitscotland.com/destina...
Glasgow – https://www.visitscotland.com/destina...
Inverness – https://www.visitscotland.com/destina...
Aberdeen – https://www.visitscotland.com/destina...
Dundee - https://www.visitscotland.com/destina...
Perth – https://www.visitscotland.com/destina...
Stirling - https://www.visitscotland.com/destina...

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