When is the best time to travel to Scotland?

Keep in mind that the only sure thing about the weather in Scotland is that it is completely unpredictable. Anything can happen at any time. Dress accordingly.

Scotland’s high season runs between June and August. Days are mild, sometimes warm, and the sky is light until well after 9pm.

In August, several festivals—the Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Book Festival, Jazz & Blues Festival, and the Military Tattoo— take place in Edinburgh. Finding accommodation can be tricky, so reserve ahead.

The shoulder months of May and September are idyllic; the crowds are few, and hotel prices are lower. Hiking and outdoor pursuits are at their glorious best.

Touring Scotland in winter can be perfectly agreeable to the hardy. Hours of daylight are limited though, so you must use your time wisely. From October to Easter some attractions close down or greatly reduce their operating hours. Public transportation can reduce their services to more remote areas, as well. Castles, grand estates, and gardens generally remain open all year.