From rugged mountains and bustling cities to dramatic medieval ruins and bucolic whiskey distilleries, Scotland packs in an amazing amount of sights for a country about the size of South Carolina. You could spend months just exploring the Highlands’s craggy peaks and glittering lochs, boating and spotting whales in the Hebrides or losing yourself in the Edinburgh and Glasgow cultural scenes. No matter how much time you have in this magical nation—whether that’s a week, a month or more—here’s everything hikers and haggis lovers alike need to know about timing a Scottish visit!
Spring
Spring in Scotland is cool and crisp, with temperatures staying around 40 in March and rising to the upper 50s by May. These are some of the driest months of the year, so it’s an ideal time for hiking and checking out the blooming wildflowers without being bothered by insects or tourists.
Summer
In June, July and August, Scotland warms up but doesn’t overheat. (Temperatures rarely stray above 75 degrees.) Yes, the northern latitude means plenty of daylight, but sunshine isn’t always a given.
Fall
Temperatures begin to cool in September, dropping into the 40s and 50s. It also gets gray and rainy, and the first snow of the season can fall as early as November. There are some pleasant, sunny days as well, though, and brilliant fall foliage peaks around mid-October.
Winter
Scottish winters are cold, wet, dark and generally gloomy, so do as the locals do. Stay warm with pub fireplaces, wool coats and lots of whiskey! Temperatures hover between the 30s and 40s, never dropping too far below freezing. The Highlands get a fair amount of snowfall, which draws skiers and snowboarders up into the mountains but makes many smaller villages inaccessible.
Remember, Scotland is one of the windiest countries in Europe. When you’re out and about, be prepared for strong breezes and weather that can turn on a dime. Always dress in layers, and be sure to throw in a good rain jacket, even if there doesn’t seem to be a cloud in the sky.