Study Abroad Trip: Top 10 Things to See and Do in Scotland

Scotland is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture, making it a popular destination for study abroad trips. From its stunning landscapes and historic castles to its lively cities and friendly locals, there are so many things to see and do in Scotland that it can be overwhelming to plan your trip.

Things to See and Do in Scotland During Your Study Abroad

Here are the top 10 things you won’t want to miss during your study abroad trip to Scotland:

1. Visit Edinburgh Castle: Located in the heart of the city, Edinburgh Castle is a must-see for any visitor to Scotland. Built on an extinct volcano, the castle dates back to the 12th century and is home to the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny. Take a guided tour to learn about the castle’s history and see some of its most famous landmarks, such as the Great Hall and the Royal Palace.
2. Explore the Scottish Highlands: The Highlands are home to some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes, including lochs, mountains, and glens. Take a day trip to see the famous Loch Ness and try to spot the legendary monster, or go hiking or biking in the Cairngorms National Park.
3. Tour a whisky distillery: Scotland is famous for its whisky, and visiting a distillery is a must-do during your trip. You can learn about the process of making whisky and even sample a few different varieties. Some popular distilleries to visit include Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, and Macallan.
4. Visit St. Andrews: Located on the east coast of Scotland, St. Andrews is a charming town that is home to the oldest university in Scotland. Take a tour of the university and visit the famous St. Andrews Cathedral, where you can see the grave of Scotland’s patron saint, St. Andrew.
5. Take a ferry to the Isle of Skye: The Isle of Skye is a beautiful island off Scotland’s west coast. It is home to stunning landscapes, including the Quiraing, a series of ancient landslips that offer incredible views of the surrounding mountains and sea. You can also visit the Fairy Pools, a series of crystal-clear pools that are popular for swimming.
6. Visit Glasgow: Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city and is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Take a tour of the city and visit some of its famous landmarks, such as the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Glasgow Cathedral. You can also visit the Riverside Museum, dedicated to Scotland’s history of transportation.
7. Visit the Orkney Islands: The Orkney Islands are an archipelago located off the north coast of Scotland. They are home to a number of ancient sites, including the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar, and Skara Brae, a village that dates back to the Neolithic era.
8. Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia: The Royal Yacht Britannia is a former royal residence that is now open to the public. You can take a tour of the yacht and see where the royal family lived and entertained during their holidays.
9. Visit the Kelpies: The Kelpies are two massive horse head sculptures that artist Andy Scott created. They are located in the Helix Park in Falkirk and are a must-see for any visitor to Scotland.
10. Go skiing in the Cairngorms: The Cairngorms are home to Scotland’s only ski resort, which is open from November to April. The resort has a range of runs to suit skiers of all abilities and a number of other winter activities.

One final thing to consider when planning your study abroad trip to Scotland is the weather. Scotland can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from cold and wet to warm and sunny. It’s a good idea to pack layers and bring waterproof gear, as you never know what the weather will be like. 

It’s also a good idea to research the best times to visit, as some areas of Scotland are more popular during certain seasons.

 For example, the Highlands are especially beautiful in the summer, while the ski resorts in the Cairngorms are only open in the winter. No matter when you choose to visit, Scotland is sure to be an unforgettable destination for your study abroad trip.

Conclusion

There are so many amazing things to see and do in Scotland that it takes time to narrow it down to just 10. From exploring its stunning landscapes and rich history to tasting its famous whisky and experiencing its vibrant culture, Scotland has something for everyone. 

Whether you are interested in outdoor adventure, history, or just soaking up the local culture, Scotland is the perfect destination for your study abroad trip. So start planning your study abroad trip and get ready to experience all that this beautiful country has to offer.