12 day itinerary for Scotland
Personalized with:
Me and my girlfriend first time to scotl
We want to see the harry potter bridge
We want to see island of skye
We’re going early December
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Itinerary
Oh, how exciting! Scotland is such a magical place, especially in December when the landscapes are draped in winter's embrace. You and your girlfriend are in for a treat! Here’s a cozy 12-day itinerary that balances adventure, romance, and a sprinkle of Harry Potter magic. Let’s dive in!
## Day 1: Arrival in Edinburgh
- Morning: Arrive in Edinburgh. Check into your hotel or cozy Airbnb.
- Afternoon: Stroll down the Royal Mile, popping into shops and cafes. Don’t miss the chance to try some haggis!
- Evening: Head to a traditional Scottish pub for dinner. Enjoy some live music if you can!
## Day 2: Explore Edinburgh
- Morning: Visit Edinburgh Castle. The views from the castle are breathtaking!
- Afternoon: Explore the charming streets of the Old Town and visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
- Evening: Take a ghost tour in the Old Town. It’s spooky and fun, perfect for a couple!
## Day 3: Harry Potter Day
- Morning: Visit the Elephant House café, where J.K. Rowling wrote parts of Harry Potter. Grab a coffee and soak in the atmosphere.
- Afternoon: Head to the Glenfinnan Viaduct (the Harry Potter bridge!). It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Edinburgh, but the scenery is stunning. You can take a short hike to get the best views of the viaduct.
- Evening: Drive to Fort William and stay overnight. Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local restaurant.
## Day 4: Fort William to Isle of Skye
- Morning: Visit the stunning Glen Nevis for a morning walk. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike a bit!
- Afternoon: Drive to the Isle of Skye. Stop at Eilean Donan Castle on the way for some iconic photos.
- Evening: Arrive in Portree, the capital of Skye. Check into your accommodation and enjoy a romantic dinner.
## Day 5: Explore the Isle of Skye
- Morning: Visit the Fairy Pools for a magical walk. The water is crystal clear, and the scenery is breathtaking.
- Afternoon: Head to the Old Man of Storr for a hike. The views are absolutely worth it!
- Evening: Return to Portree for dinner. Try some fresh seafood!
## Day 6: More of Skye
- Morning: Visit Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland.
- Afternoon: Explore the Quiraing, a stunning landscape perfect for photography and hiking.
- Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening in Portree. Maybe find a cozy spot for a whisky tasting!
## Day 7: Skye to Inverness
- Morning: Depart Skye and head towards Inverness. Stop at the picturesque village of Plockton along the way.
- Afternoon: Arrive in Inverness and visit the famous Loch Ness. Take a boat tour if the weather permits!
- Evening: Explore Inverness and have dinner at a local restaurant.
## Day 8: Inverness to Aberdeen
- Morning: Visit Culloden Battlefield, a poignant historical site.
- Afternoon: Drive to Aberdeen, stopping at the charming town of Elgin to see the ruins of Elgin Cathedral.
- Evening: Arrive in Aberdeen and enjoy a nice dinner. Explore the city a bit if you have time!
## Day 9: Aberdeen to Edinburgh
- Morning: Visit the beautiful Crathes Castle and its gardens.
- Afternoon: Head back to Edinburgh. You might want to stop at St. Andrews for a quick visit to the famous golf course and the ruins of the cathedral.
- Evening: Arrive in Edinburgh and enjoy a nice dinner. Maybe catch a show at the Edinburgh Playhouse!
## Day 10: Day Trip to the Borders
- Morning: Take a day trip to the Scottish Borders. Visit Melrose Abbey and the charming town of Melrose.
- Afternoon: Explore the beautiful countryside and maybe visit Abbotsford, the home of Sir Walter Scott.
- Evening: Return to Edinburgh for a cozy dinner.
## Day 11: Edinburgh to Glasgow
- Morning: Depart for Glasgow. Visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
- Afternoon: Explore the vibrant West End, including the [University of Glasgow](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=University%20of%20[Glasgow](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Glasgow&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround") and the Botanic Gardens.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of Glasgow’s trendy restaurants. The city has a fantastic food scene!
## Day 12: Departure
- Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Glasgow.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure. Take all those beautiful memories with you!
Tips:
- Weather: December can be chilly and wet, so pack warm clothes and waterproof gear.
- Driving: If you’re renting a car, be prepared for some winding roads, especially on the Isle of Skye.
- Reservations: Make dinner reservations in advance, especially in popular areas.
I hope this itinerary helps you create unforgettable memories in Scotland! Enjoy your adventure! 🏴☠️✨
Places of interest
Elephant House café
Description:** Elephant House Café is a charming café located in Edinburgh, Scotland, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious selection of cakes, coffees, and light meals. It has gained popularity as a favorite spot for writers and Harry Potter fans, as it is said to be one of the places where J.K. Rowling penned parts of her famous series.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
Glenfinnan Viaduct is a magnificent railway viaduct located in the Scottish Highlands. It is renowned for its stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings, making it a popular tourist attraction. The viaduct is particularly famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films, where the Hogwarts Express crosses over it. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the beautiful Loch Shiel.
Glen Nevis
Glen Nevis is a picturesque valley located in the Scottish Highlands, known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. It is home to the iconic Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles. The glen offers breathtaking landscapes, including waterfalls, rivers, and lush greenery, making it a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle is a picturesque castle located on a small island in Loch Duich, Scotland. It is one of the most iconic and recognized castles in the country, known for its stunning setting and rich history. The castle dates back to the 13th century and has been beautifully restored, offering visitors a glimpse into Scotland's medieval past.
Plockton
Description:** Plockton is a picturesque village located on the northwest coast of Scotland, known for its stunning scenery, charming cottages, and tranquil harbor. Surrounded by mountains and the waters of Loch Carron, it offers a serene escape with opportunities for walking, kayaking, and enjoying local seafood.
Culloden Battlefield
Culloden Battlefield is a historic site in Scotland where the final battle of the Jacobite Rising took place in 1746. It is now a popular tourist attraction and offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of the battle and its impact on Scottish culture.
Elgin Cathedral
Description:** Elgin Cathedral, located in Elgin, Scotland, is a stunning example of medieval architecture and was once one of the most important ecclesiastical buildings in the country. Known as the "Lantern of the North," it features impressive Gothic design elements, including intricate stone carvings and beautiful stained glass windows. Although now in ruins, the cathedral's grandeur still captivates visitors.
Crathes Castle
Crathes Castle is a stunning 16th-century castle located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate woodwork, and well-preserved gardens. The castle offers visitors a glimpse into Scottish history and provides a memorable experience with its guided tours and exhibitions.
St. Andrews
St. Andrews is a historic town located on the east coast of Scotland. It is known for its prestigious university, stunning coastal scenery, and world-renowned golf courses. With its charming streets, ancient ruins, and rich history, St. Andrews offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Melrose Abbey
Description:** Melrose Abbey is a stunning 12th-century ruin located in the Scottish Borders, known for its intricate stone carvings and historical significance as one of the most important Cistercian monasteries in Scotland. The abbey is set against a picturesque backdrop and is famous for its beautiful architecture, including the iconic central tower and the unique decorative features that reflect the artistry of the period.
Abbotsford
Description:** Abbotsford is the former home of Sir Walter Scott, a renowned Scottish author and poet. Nestled on the banks of the River Tweed, this historic house showcases stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and works of one of Scotland's literary giants.
University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow, located in Scotland, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, engineering, and business. With a rich history dating back to 1451, the university is known for its academic excellence, research contributions, and vibrant student life.