BestTimesToVisit.com Logo

✓ Updated February 2026

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Scotland, United Kingdom: Jun or Jul 2026

Scotland, United Kingdom travel destination - scenic view of Whisky Trail Through Speyside's Hidden Drams during ideal visiting season
Image: Flag of Scotland.svg viaWikimedia Commons

✈️ Ready to book your trip?

Compare flights, hotels, and packages on Trip.com

Search Now

Quick Answer:

For a truly special Scottish experience, aim for late spring (May and June) when the landscapes burst into vibrant life with wildflowers and the days stretch long and bright. Imagine the crisp air carrying the scent of heather as you explore ancient castles, or the vibrant hues of a summer sunset painting the sky over a tranquil loch. Alternatively, the autumn months (September and October) offer a different kind of beauty, with a vibrant tapestry of russet and gold foliage and fewer crowds, perfect for cozying up in a pub after a bracing walk.

Best Months to Visit:

JunJulAugSep

Airport Code

EDI

Coordinates

56.49°, -4.20°

NEWVANGA Universal USB-C Travel Adapter (All-in-One)
Traveler Recommended

One Travel Essential Almost Everyone Forgets

NEWVANGA Universal USB-C Travel Adapter (All-in-One)

Compact all-in-one adapter with US, UK, EU and AU plugs plus fast USB charging, so you can charge your phone and laptop in 150+ countries without hunting for the right plug.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Top Things to Do

Whisky Trail Through Speyside's Hidden Drams

Venture beyond the well-trodden distillery tours and seek out smaller, independent bottlers or family-run distilleries in the Speyside region. Look for unique cask finishes or single cask expressions that offer a true taste of Scotland's national drink, often with more intimate tasting experiences.

Sunrise Hike Up Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh

Beat the crowds and witness Edinburgh awaken from the summit of Arthur's Seat. This ancient volcano offers a surprisingly wild escape within the city, with panoramic views that stretch from the Firth of Forth to the Pentland Hills. Pack a flask of hot tea for a truly memorable start to your day.

Explore the Isle of Skye's Fairy Pools at Dawn

Experience the magical, crystal-clear waters and cascading waterfalls of the Fairy Pools before the main tourist throngs arrive. The ethereal light of early morning illuminates the vibrant blues and greens, creating an otherworldly atmosphere perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.

Discover Glasgow's Street Art Scene

Wander through Glasgow's vibrant laneways and discover a world-class open-air gallery of murals by international and local artists. Look for the 'City Centre Mural Trail' for a curated experience, but don't be afraid to explore off the beaten path for unexpected artistic gems.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

packing

Pack for all four seasons, even in summer! Scotland's weather is famously unpredictable. Think layers: a waterproof and windproof jacket is non-negotiable, and bring sturdy, comfortable walking shoes – you'll be doing a lot of exploring, often on uneven terrain.

money

While credit cards are widely accepted, always have some cash on hand, especially for smaller villages or rural pubs. Many places in the Highlands still prefer cash for smaller purchases, and it's handy for tipping if you receive exceptional service.

transport

Consider a ScotRail Spirit of Scotland Travelpass if you plan on extensive train travel. It offers unlimited travel on most ScotRail services for a set period, which can be significantly cheaper than buying individual tickets, especially if you're hopping between cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness.

culture

Embrace 'pub culture' – it's more than just drinking! Many pubs are community hubs offering hearty meals and live traditional music sessions, especially on weekend evenings. Don't be shy to strike up a conversation with locals; they're usually very friendly and happy to share recommendations.

food

Don't leave without trying haggis, neeps, and tatties – it's a national dish for a reason! For a truly authentic experience, seek out a local butcher or a traditional restaurant. If you're feeling adventurous, sample some fresh Scottish seafood, like oysters or salmon, which are second to none.

safety

Be aware of 'midges' during warmer months, especially in the Highlands and Islands from late spring to early autumn. These tiny biting insects can be a nuisance. Pack a good insect repellent with DEET, and consider a head net if you're particularly sensitive or planning hikes in midge hotspots.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan
15 days
Feb
12 days
Mar
14 days
Apr
11 days
May
11 days
Jun
11 days
Jul
12 days
Aug
13 days
Sep
13 days
Oct
15 days
Nov
14 days
Dec
15 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan6°C1°C43°F34°F110mm
15 days
7.5h
Feb7°C1°C45°F34°F80mm
12 days
9h
Mar9°C3°C48°F37°F90mm
14 days
11.5h
Apr11°C4°C52°F39°F60mm
11 days
14h
May14°C7°C57°F45°F65mm
11 days
16h
Jun16°C9°C61°F48°F70mm
11 days
17h
Jul18°C11°C64°F52°F75mm
12 days
16.5h
Aug18°C11°C64°F52°F80mm
13 days
15h
Sep15°C9°C59°F48°F95mm
13 days
13h
Oct12°C6°C54°F43°F110mm
15 days
10.5h
Nov9°C3°C48°F37°F100mm
14 days
8.5h
Dec7°C2°C45°F36°F115mm
15 days
7h

Scotland, United Kingdom Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Scotland, United Kingdom? Here's what to expect each month:

Jan in Scotland, United Kingdom

Weather

6°C°C / 43°F°F

15 days rainy days • 110mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Jan is cooler. Pack warm clothing and layers.

Feb in Scotland, United Kingdom

Weather

7°C°C / 45°F°F

12 days rainy days • 80mmmm

What to Expect

Late winter, beginning to warm up. Good for budget travelers seeking lower prices.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Feb is cooler. Pack warm clothing and layers.

Mar in Scotland, United Kingdom

Weather

9°C°C / 48°F°F

14 days rainy days • 90mmmm

What to Expect

Spring begins, mild weather. Shoulder season with moderate crowds.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Mar is cooler. Pack warm clothing and layers.

Apr in Scotland, United Kingdom

Weather

11°C°C / 52°F°F

11 days rainy days • 60mmmm

What to Expect

Spring in full bloom. Pleasant temperatures and growing tourist activity.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Apr offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

May in Scotland, United Kingdom

Weather

14°C°C / 57°F°F

11 days rainy days • 65mmmm

What to Expect

Late spring, excellent weather. One of the best times to visit for most travelers.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: May offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Jun in Scotland, United Kingdom

⭐ Best Time

Weather

16°C°C / 61°F°F

11 days rainy days • 70mmmm

What to Expect

Early summer, warm and sunny. Peak season begins, book accommodations early.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jun is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jul in Scotland, United Kingdom

⭐ Best Time

Weather

18°C°C / 64°F°F

12 days rainy days • 75mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Aug in Scotland, United Kingdom

⭐ Best Time

Weather

18°C°C / 64°F°F

13 days rainy days • 80mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Aug is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Sep in Scotland, United Kingdom

⭐ Best Time

Weather

15°C°C / 59°F°F

13 days rainy days • 95mmmm

What to Expect

Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Sep is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Oct in Scotland, United Kingdom

Weather

12°C°C / 54°F°F

15 days rainy days • 110mmmm

What to Expect

Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Oct sees significant rainfall. Bring waterproof gear.

Nov in Scotland, United Kingdom

Weather

9°C°C / 48°F°F

14 days rainy days • 100mmmm

What to Expect

Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Nov is cooler. Pack warm clothing and layers.

Dec in Scotland, United Kingdom

Weather

7°C°C / 45°F°F

15 days rainy days • 115mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec is cooler. Pack warm clothing and layers.

All Things to Do in Scotland, United Kingdom

Whisky Trail Through Speyside's Hidden Drams

food

Venture beyond the well-trodden distillery tours and seek out smaller, independent bottlers or family-run distilleries in the Speyside region. Look for unique cask finishes or single cask expressions that offer a true taste of Scotland's national drink, often with more intimate tasting experiences.

Best time: Apr-Oct

Sunrise Hike Up Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh

nature

Beat the crowds and witness Edinburgh awaken from the summit of Arthur's Seat. This ancient volcano offers a surprisingly wild escape within the city, with panoramic views that stretch from the Firth of Forth to the Pentland Hills. Pack a flask of hot tea for a truly memorable start to your day.

Best time: Mar-Oct

Explore the Isle of Skye's Fairy Pools at Dawn

nature

Experience the magical, crystal-clear waters and cascading waterfalls of the Fairy Pools before the main tourist throngs arrive. The ethereal light of early morning illuminates the vibrant blues and greens, creating an otherworldly atmosphere perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.

Best time: May-Sep

Discover Glasgow's Street Art Scene

cultural

Wander through Glasgow's vibrant laneways and discover a world-class open-air gallery of murals by international and local artists. Look for the 'City Centre Mural Trail' for a curated experience, but don't be afraid to explore off the beaten path for unexpected artistic gems.

A Traditional Ceilidh in a Village Hall

activity

Immerse yourself in Scottish culture by attending a local ceilidh, a lively evening of traditional music and dancing. These events, often held in community halls, offer an authentic and joyful experience where locals and visitors alike are welcomed onto the dance floor.

Best time: Oct-Mar

Hunt for Antiques in Aberfeldy's Independent Shops

shopping

Escape the city bustle and explore the charming shops of Aberfeldy, a picturesque town in Perthshire known for its independent boutiques and antique stores. You might unearth a unique piece of Scottish pottery, vintage tweed, or a rare book.

Stargazing in the Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park

nature

Experience the profound darkness of the UK's first Dark Sky Park, where the Milky Way is often visible to the naked eye. On a clear night, the sheer number of stars is astonishing, offering a humbling and awe-inspiring celestial spectacle far from light pollution.

Best time: Sep-Apr

Sample Fresh Seafood at a Coastal Village Market

food

Head to a small fishing village like Crail in Fife or Ullapool on the west coast and savor the freshest seafood imaginable, often sold directly from the boats or at local markets. Enjoy plump oysters, sweet scallops, or perfectly cooked haddock while breathing in the salty sea air.

Planning your Scotland, United Kingdom adventure? Enhance it with a customizable private tour guide via GoWithGuide—perfect for exploring beyond the city.

GoWithGuide Tours and Experiences

Getting Around Scotland, United Kingdom

ScotRail Trains

Scotland's primary rail network connects major cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness, as well as many smaller towns. It's an excellent way to cover longer distances comfortably and enjoy the stunning scenery without the stress of driving.

Cost:Varies widely; advance single tickets can be as low as £5, while last-minute returns can exceed £50. A BritRail Pass can be cost-effective for extensive travel.
Tip:Book tickets in advance, especially for popular routes and peak times, via the ScotRail app or website (scotrail.co.uk) to secure the best prices. Avoid buying on the day of travel if possible. Always check platform numbers on departure boards as they can change. Be mindful of 'peak' and 'off-peak' times for fare differences.

City Sightseeing Buses (Hop-on Hop-off)

These double-decker buses are perfect for getting an overview of cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow, stopping at major tourist attractions. They allow you to hop off at points of interest and hop back on later.

Cost:Around £15-£20 for a 24-hour ticket.
Tip:Purchase tickets online or directly from the driver. Listen to the commentary for historical insights. A common mistake is trying to see too much in one day; focus on a few key areas. These are best for initial orientation rather than efficient point-to-point travel.

Local Buses (e.g., Lothian Buses, First Glasgow)

Each major city has its own extensive bus network that is the backbone of local public transport. They are frequent, affordable, and reach areas not served by trains, making them ideal for getting around within cities and to surrounding suburbs.

Cost:Single fares typically £1.70-£2.50, with day tickets around £4-£5. Contactless payment is widely accepted.
Tip:Download the respective bus company's app (e.g., Lothian Buses app) for real-time tracking and journey planning. Have exact change or use contactless payment; drivers often cannot give change. Don't be afraid to ask the driver or fellow passengers if you're unsure about your stop.

Ferries (CalMac)

For island hopping in the Highlands and Islands, CalMac ferries are essential. They connect the mainland to numerous islands like Skye, Mull, and the Outer Hebrides, offering breathtaking coastal views.

Cost:Varies by route and vehicle; foot passenger fares can range from £5 to £20 for longer crossings. Booking is highly recommended, especially for vehicles.
Tip:Book your ferry tickets well in advance, particularly during summer or if you're taking a car, via the CalMac website (calmac.co.uk). Weather can cause cancellations, so always check the service status on the day of travel. Arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes before departure.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing (Uber)

Taxis are readily available in cities and larger towns, while Uber operates in major urban centers like Edinburgh and Glasgow. They offer convenience for direct travel, especially with luggage or late at night.

Cost:Metered taxis can be expensive, starting around £3-£4 with charges per mile. Uber prices are comparable but can surge during peak times.
Tip:Use official taxi ranks or book through reputable apps. Be aware that some rural areas may have limited or no taxi services. For Uber, ensure the car and driver match the app details. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service (around 10%).

Car Hire

Renting a car provides the ultimate flexibility, especially for exploring the Highlands, rural areas, and smaller villages off the main tourist trails. It allows you to stop at scenic viewpoints and discover hidden gems.

Cost:Daily rates can range from £30-£70+ depending on the car type, rental company, and season. Factor in fuel costs and potential insurance.
Tip:Book your car hire well in advance, especially for automatic transmission vehicles, which are less common and more expensive. Be prepared for driving on the left and navigating narrow, winding roads, particularly in rural areas. Familiarize yourself with Scottish road signs and be courteous to local drivers who may be traveling at a faster pace.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the absolute best time to visit Scotland, and what should I expect weather-wise?

For a balance of decent weather and fewer crowds, aim for late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October). You'll likely experience milder temperatures, longer daylight hours in spring, and beautiful autumnal colors in fall. Be prepared for anything, though; Scotland's weather is famously fickle, and you can easily get sunshine, rain, and wind all in one day, even in summer!

I'm planning to drive in Scotland. Are there any specific road tips I should know?

Absolutely! If you're venturing into the Highlands or the islands, be ready for single-track roads with passing places. Always pull over to let faster traffic pass, and never block a passing place. Also, remember that sheep often have the right of way, so drive defensively and enjoy the stunning scenery – but keep your eyes on the road!

What's the deal with 'midges' in Scotland, and should I be worried?

Ah, the infamous Scottish midge! These tiny biting insects are most prevalent in the Highlands and islands during the warmer, damper months, typically from late May to September, especially at dawn and dusk. While they're a nuisance, they won't ruin your trip if you come prepared. Pack a good insect repellent (Smidge is a popular local brand) and consider a head net if you're particularly sensitive or planning extensive outdoor activities.

Beyond Edinburgh and the Highlands, what's a lesser-known region or island that offers a truly authentic Scottish experience?

For a truly off-the-beaten-path gem, consider the Outer Hebrides. Islands like Harris and Lewis offer breathtaking, deserted beaches that rival anywhere in the world, ancient standing stones, and a strong sense of Gaelic culture. It's a place where time seems to slow down, and you can truly connect with the raw beauty and history of Scotland.

Are there any unique Scottish customs or etiquette I should be aware of, especially when dining or visiting pubs?

In pubs, it's customary to order drinks and food at the bar yourself rather than waiting for table service. If you're invited for a meal at someone's home, bringing a small gift like a bottle of wine or some chocolates is a thoughtful gesture. And don't be surprised if locals strike up a conversation – Scots are generally very friendly and happy to chat!

What's the best way to experience Scotland's whisky culture without just doing a standard distillery tour?

Seek out a whisky bar in a city like Edinburgh or Glasgow that offers a wide selection and knowledgeable staff. You can often arrange 'tastings' where you sample several different drams based on your preferences, learning about the nuances of each region. For a truly unique experience, look for 'whisky festivals' that pop up throughout the year, offering a chance to meet distillers and try rare bottlings.

How many days do you need in Scotland, United Kingdom?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Scotland, United Kingdom to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

Is Scotland, United Kingdom expensive to visit?

Scotland, United Kingdom can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Jun and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Scotland, United Kingdom famous for?

Scotland, United Kingdom is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Jun or Jul for the best experience.

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Explore accommodation options on Booking.com or find amazing tours and activities with GetYourGuide.

Tip: Booking through these links may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you, helping support this site's free content!