The land of whiskey and haggis is a great backpacker destination. It’s got a bit of everything; culture and history in Edinburgh (plus a great booze-up every NYE), incredible countryside and even its own monster, Nessie. What’s not to love?
Quick Facts
• Capital City: Edinburgh
• Currency: Pounds Sterling (GBP)
• Language: English, Gaelic
• Time Zone: 0 GMT
• Dialling Code: +44
• Religions Practised: Christianity (Protestant, Roman Catholic)
• Total Area: 78,387 square kilometres
• Population Size: 5222100
Practical Information
Voltage and Plug Info:
220-240 V. British-style plug socket with three pins.
Visas:
EU residents can travel freely to Scotland. Citizens of Canada, Australia, South Africa, the US and New Zealand can stay for six months without a visa.
Safety:
Keep your personal belongings close, especially in urban areas.
Vaccinations and Health:
You won’t need any vaccinations to travel to Scotland, and the water is more than safe to drink.
Guide to Taking a Gap Year in Scotland
Best Time to Visit?
Winters get cold and rainy, especially in the highlands. The best time of year to visit is autumn and spring, where the weather’s mild and the tourist crowds (especially in Edinburgh) are not too daunting.
Getting There and Away
You can drive into Scotland easily from England, or fly into one of its airports (at Glasgow, Dundee, Inverness, Kirkwall, Aberdeen and Edinburgh).
Getting Around
Transport is fairly cheap, especially if you travel by bus.
Don’t Leave Here Without…
Sleeping in a castle
The Scottish Youth Hostel Association has beds in some of the country’s most awesome locations, from forests and lochs to ancient castles. Live it up like a laird, pay like a pauper.
Having a giggle
The world’s best (and worst) comics and performers flock to the Scottish capital throughout August for the Edinburgh Festival and they’re all hell-bent on making you laugh.
Drinking a wee dram of whisky
Head to the Isle Of Mull and take a sup of Scotland’s favourite beverage at the Tobermory Distillery. If you find white wine spritzers a bit strong, you’ll probably want some water with your whisky. Lots of water.
Seeing the Northern Lights
Those Scandinavians always harp on about the aurora borealis, but they’re not the only ones with front-row seats. You can catch nature’s finest light display in the Shetland Islands in autumn too.
Stretching your legs
Get blisters as you trek across the West Highland Way, which finishes in a magnificent hike to the foot of Ben Nevis. The blisters will fade; the view across the Highlands will stay with you forever.
If Scotland appeals, you should also view our England gap year programs.