Planning a Trip to Scotland in 2024? Here’s What You Need to Know

Carol R.
May 28, 2024
3 min read

Updated: Sep 11, 2025

This magical country is full of charms and has so much to offer. I’m excited to share the top reasons to include Scotland in your travel itinerary—a destination packed with fascinating stories of magic, ghosts, and, of course, stunning castles.

Let’s start with my number one reason:

1. Breathtaking Landscapes

The scenery is absolutely breathtaking. The moment you cross the border (Welcome to Scotland), you’ll fall in love instantly! On all my trips, I’ve explored Scotland by car, and every time I pass that iconic welcome sign, I’m greeted by landscapes that look like something out of a movie. It’s magical! Every mountain, loch, and valley seems to tell its own story, and you can’t help but get goosebumps. Trust me, Scotland is a journey you’ll never forget!

In Cairngorms National Park, you’ll encounter a stunning mix of mountains, rivers, forest trails, lochs, wildlife, cozy villages, and even distilleries. It’s the perfect destination for anyone who loves nature and tranquility. To learn more about the largest national park in the UK, check out the official site: Cairngorms National Park.

You can visit Scotland at any time of year, but there’s something especially magical about the cold winter days under starry skies. Yes, it’s possible to find a breathtakingly blue sky! These days are not only the most beautiful but also the chilliest. Clouds trap the heat from the previous day, and when the sun appears with a clear, blue sky, it’s time to bundle up because the cold is intense. Even in spring, I still wear a hat and gloves—I’m sensitive to the cold! And the best part? No one cares (though, of course, you might get the occasional curious glance, like, “Where did this woman come from?” Ha ha).

Spring is also an incredible time to visit Scotland. There are plenty of events happening, and it’s much less crowded than in summer. I love when the weather starts to warm up, the days get longer, and the landscape begins to bloom. It’s the perfect time to explore without the hustle and bustle of peak season!

2. Whisky, whisky, whisky

The Speyside region in northern Scotland is world-famous for its single malt whisky production. It’s a true paradise for both whisky enthusiasts and nature lovers. Did you know that this area has more distilleries per square mile than anywhere else in the world? It’s a must-visit destination if you want to savor whisky while exploring some of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes.

Among the most renowned distilleries in Speyside are Macallan, Cardhu, Glenlivet, and Glenfiddich, all open to visitors year-round. For whisky fans, the region offers an incredible chance to dive deep into the production process and discover the fascinating histories behind some of the world’s most iconic brands.

Last week, I had the pleasure of touring the Glenfiddich Distillery, and I can’t wait to share all the details in my next post—it was an unforgettable experience! During my free time, I also explored the iconic The Glenlivet Distillery, soaking in its history and charm. And to top it off, on my way out, I was lucky enough to catch Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, arriving in a 1960 Rolls-Royce. Truly a day I’ll never forget!

3. The Scots

The Scots are, without a doubt, some of the warmest and friendliest people I’ve ever met! They’ll strike up a conversation in pubs, on the train, or practically anywhere, making you feel instantly welcome.

One of my most heartwarming experiences happened while wandering the streets of Aberdeen. I noticed a tour bus with a handmade Scottish crochet doll at the front and couldn’t help but smile. Curious, I stopped for a closer look and asked the driver if I could take a photo. To my delight, he not only said yes, but also told me that a dear friend had lovingly made the doll just for him. Moments like this are exactly why I adore Scotland, it’s a place full of kindness, charm, and unexpected surprises!

4. The Pubs

Ah, the pubs… I absolutely love stepping into one and seeing people chatting, laughing, and enjoying a pint (my favorite is Guinness!). The atmosphere is always so warm and inviting, full of positive energy, and it doesn’t take long for someone to strike up a conversation, curious about your accent and ready to share tips on must-visit spots. For me, there’s nothing better than relaxing, chatting, and disconnecting from the daily rush. It’s moments like these that make a trip truly special!