Best Places to Stay in Scotland

Looking for the best places to stay in Scotland? Skip the endless browsing - we’ve done the hard work for you. We’ve curated Scotland’s most popular destinations, from historic city stays in Edinburgh and Glasgow to scenic escapes in the Highlands, islands and national parks. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, spa break or countryside retreat, this guide brings together some of the best places to stay across Scotland, all in one place.

Best for: History lovers, culture seekers and city break enthusiasts.

Edinburgh is Scotland’s historic capital, known for its medieval Old Town, elegant Georgian New Town and iconic skyline. The city blends centuries of history with a lively cultural scene, making it ideal for short breaks and longer stays alike. From landmark attractions to cosy neighbourhoods, Edinburgh offers a wide range of places to stay for every type of traveller.

Things to Do in Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh Castle: Explore one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks, perched high above the city with panoramic views and centuries of royal history.
  • Royal Mile: Walk the historic route connecting Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, lined with shops, attractions and traditional pubs.
  • Arthur’s Seat: Climb this ancient volcanic peak in Holyrood Park for sweeping views across the city and surrounding countryside.
  • National Museum of Scotland: Discover Scottish history, science and culture under one roof, with free entry and engaging exhibits.

Best places to stay in Edinburgh - Hotels and Accommodation Options

  • 4* Four Points by Sheraton Edinburgh: Located just steps from Haymarket Station, this modern hotel is ideal for transport links and is within easy walking distance of Murrayfield Stadium for sports fans.
  • 4* Mercure Edinburgh Haymarket Hotel: A centrally located hotel just a 10-minute walk from Haymarket train station, with convenient access to the EICC, tram stops and walkable routes to Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket and the Old Town.
  • Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge: Set on South Bridge in the heart of the Old Town, this hotel offers easy access to the Royal Mile and is well placed for visiting Edinburgh Castle and central attractions.
  • 4* Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club: Situated in Kirknewton, around 7 miles from Edinburgh city centre, this country estate is set within 1000 acres of parkland and features two golf courses, a leisure club, multiple dining options and views stretching towards Edinburgh Castle and the Forth Bridges.
Best for: Culture lovers, live music fans and vibrant city breaks.

Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city, known for its creative energy, striking architecture and world-class music scene. With renowned museums, lively neighbourhoods and a thriving food and drink culture, it’s a great base for both short city breaks and longer stays. The city also offers easy access to green spaces and riverside walks, adding balance to its urban appeal.

Things to Do in Glasgow

  • Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: Visit one of Scotland’s most popular attractions, home to an impressive collection of art, artefacts and natural history exhibits.
  • Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis: Explore this historic cathedral and the neighbouring Victorian cemetery, offering insight into the city’s past and panoramic views over Glasgow.
  • Riverside Walks and the Clyde: Stroll along the River Clyde to see modern landmarks, cultural venues and scenic waterfront views.
  • Live Music and Theatre: Experience Glasgow’s famous live music scene, with venues ranging from intimate bars to major concert halls.

Best places to stay in Glasgow - Hotels and Accommodation Options

  • 4* Crowne Plaza Glasgow: A modern spa hotel overlooking the River Clyde, offering Riverside Beauty Spa facilities and a prime location near the SEC, Clyde Auditorium, OVO Hydro and Glasgow Science Centre.
  • 4* Radisson RED Hotel Glasgow: Located on Finnieston Quay, this contemporary hotel is close to major attractions and features the RED Sky Bar, a globally recognised rooftop bar with panoramic views across the River Clyde.
  • 4* Sandman Signature Glasgow Hotel: A brand-new hotel positioned between Glasgow City Centre and the West End, within walking distance of Glasgow Cathedral, the Necropolis and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
  • 4* Macdonald Crutherland House Hotel: Set within nearly 40 acres of countryside in East Kilbride, this 18th-century manor house and spa offers a peaceful retreat just a 30-minute drive from Glasgow, with easy access to nearby Chatelheraut Country Park for outdoor exploration.
Best for: Scenic escapes, outdoor adventures and peaceful lochside breaks.

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is one of Scotland’s most picturesque regions, known for its dramatic landscapes, tranquil lochs and charming villages. Just a short distance from the Central Belt, it offers an easy escape into nature without feeling remote. From gentle walks to water-based activities, it’s an ideal destination for a relaxed yet active Scottish break.

Things to Do in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

  • Loch Lomond Cruises: Take to the water on a boat or cruise to enjoy panoramic views of the loch, surrounding mountains and forested shores.
  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore well-marked trails through woodland, hills and glens, with routes suitable for all fitness levels.
  • Distillery Visits: Discover nearby whisky distilleries such as Glengoyne, offering tours and tastings close to the national park.
  • Water Sports and Outdoor Activities: Try kayaking, canoeing or paddleboarding on the lochs, or enjoy cycling and wildlife spotting across the park.

Best places to stay in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs - Hotels and Accommodation Options

  • Buchanan Arms Hotel & Leisure Club: Set in the conservation village of Drymen within Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, this countryside hotel offers a classic lochside escape with a leisure club featuring an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and gym, and is close to Buchanan Castle and Glengoyne Distillery.
  • 4* The Inn on Loch Lomond: A TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award winner located in Inverbeg, this pet-friendly hotel is well placed for exploring Loch Lomond, Loch Long, Loch Fyne and Glen Douglas, with live music at weekends and family-friendly stays for younger children.
  • The Lodge on Loch Lomond Hotel: Positioned on the beachfront at Luss, this dog-friendly hotel boasts panoramic loch views, a waterfront restaurant, AmberRose Spa facilities and its own jetty, with access to activities such as speedboat trips, yacht cruises, wakeboarding and canoe safaris.
  • The Beach House Loch Lomond: Tucked away in a secluded spot at Inverbeg, this peaceful retreat offers eight individually styled luxury bedrooms directly on the banks of the loch, with a complimentary thermal spa experience at the AmberRose Spa at The Lodge on Loch Lomond included with each stay.
Best for: Countryside retreats, spa escapes and nature-filled breaks.

Perthshire is often described as the gateway to the Highlands, offering a mix of rolling countryside, lochs and traditional market towns. It’s a region well suited to relaxed rural stays, outdoor activities and scenic drives through some of Scotland’s most attractive landscapes. With a strong focus on wellness and space to unwind, Perthshire is ideal for slower-paced Scottish getaways.

Things to Do in Perthshire

  • Explore Historic Castles and Palaces: Visit landmarks such as Scone Palace, Blair Castle and the Black Watch Castle & Museum to discover Perthshire’s rich history.
  • Outdoor Walks and Nature Trails: Enjoy woodland walks, lochside paths and hill trails that showcase the region’s varied scenery and wildlife.
  • Lochside Activities: Spend time by local lochs with opportunities for paddleboarding, pedalos and relaxed waterfront picnics.
  • Food, Drink and Local Towns: Explore market towns like Crieff and Blairgowrie, known for local produce, cafés and traditional Scottish hospitality.

Best places to stay in Perthshire - Hotels and Accommodation Options

  • The Angus Hotel & Spa: Located in Blairgowrie, this well-regarded spa hotel offers all-day dining in the Baytree Bar and Jutemills Restaurant, alongside leisure facilities including a vitality pool, hydro massage, aroma steam room, Finnish sauna and cold-water drench.
  • Whitemoss Lodge: A luxury eco pod lodge set in the Perthshire countryside near Dunning, offering a peaceful rural stay with selected pods featuring private hot tubs and fire pits, and pet-friendly options available.
  • Loch Monzievaird Chalets: These self-catering chalets near Crieff accommodate groups of various sizes and provide access to lochside walks, paddleboarding, pedalos, fire pits and open green spaces ideal for families and groups.
  • Bachilton Farm: Set within 700 acres of countryside near Perth, this rural retreat offers farm cottages and Mongolian-style yurts with private hot tubs, self-catering facilities, pet-friendly options and easy access to nearby castles, historic sites and walking trails.
Best for: Remote escapes, dramatic scenery and outdoor adventure.

The Highlands and Islands showcase some of Scotland’s most awe-inspiring landscapes, from rugged mountains and sweeping glens to windswept coastlines and peaceful islands. This vast region is ideal for travellers seeking space, nature and a slower pace of life. Whether you’re exploring famous routes or discovering quieter corners, it offers a truly immersive Scottish experience.

Things to Do in the Highlands and Islands

  • Scenic Road Trips: Travel along iconic routes through glens, coastal roads and mountain passes, with unforgettable viewpoints at every turn.
  • Hiking and Outdoor Activities: Enjoy walking, cycling, kayaking and fishing across varied terrain, from lochs and valleys to coastal paths.
  • Island Exploration: Visit islands such as Skye and Arran to experience distinctive landscapes, wildlife and local heritage.
  • Whisky and Heritage Sites: Discover historic castles, distilleries and cultural landmarks scattered throughout the region.


Best places to stay in the Highlands and Islands - Hotels and Accommodation Options

  • MacDonald Hotel & Cabins: Situated on the north-east edge of Kinlochleven, this welcoming hotel and cabin stay is perfectly placed for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the West Highland Way, Loch Leven and a wide range of Highland activities including hiking, mountain biking and kayaking.
  • The Onich Hotel & Beach Pods: A privately run lochside hotel located between Glencoe and Ben Nevis, offering rooms with stunning views and unique self-catering beach pods with direct access to Loch Linnhe from the hotel’s gardens.
  • Glenisle Hotel: Set in the coastal village of Lamlash on the Isle of Arran, this award-winning boutique hotel overlooks Lamlash Bay and the Holy Isle, combining historic charm with one of the island’s most scenic settings.
  • Hame Hotel: Located in Roskhill on the Isle of Skye, this TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice award-winning hotel offers a peaceful Hebridean escape, with easy access to iconic sights including the Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, Fairy Pools, Talisker Distillery and Dunvegan Castle.
Best for: Wildlife encounters, outdoor activities and peaceful Highland scenery.

Cairngorms National Park is the UK’s largest national park, known for its vast landscapes, ancient forests and mountain ranges. It’s a year-round destination offering everything from gentle woodland walks to more adventurous outdoor pursuits. With traditional villages and wide open spaces, the area is ideal for nature-led breaks in the Scottish Highlands.

Things to Do in Cairngorms National Park

  • Hiking and Walking Trails: Explore a wide network of trails through forests, glens and mountains, suitable for all abilities and seasons.
  • Wildlife Watching: Spot native wildlife such as red deer, red squirrels and rare bird species in their natural habitats.
  • Outdoor Sports: Enjoy activities including cycling, skiing, canoeing and climbing, depending on the time of year.
  • Explore Local Villages: Visit charming towns such as Ballater and Grantown-on-Spey for independent shops, cafés and local history.

Best places to stay in Cairngorms National Park - Hotels and Accommodation Options

  • Howe of Torbeg: Set near Ballater in Royal Deeside, this scenic countryside escape offers bespoke glamping accommodation including wooden pods and an off-grid shepherd’s hut, surrounded by open farmland and birch woodland, just a short drive from village amenities.
  • The Garth Hotel: Located in the heart of Grantown-on-Spey, this welcoming hotel features a cocktail bar, restaurant serving local specialities and pet-friendly rooms, with a central position close to the high street, museum, golf course and leisure centre.
Best for: Coastal breaks, golf getaways and historic town stays.

St Andrews and the wider Fife region combine historic towns, scenic coastline and world-famous golf courses. From sandy beaches and clifftop walks to traditional villages and cultural landmarks, the area offers a relaxed yet varied Scottish escape. It’s an excellent choice for couples, golf enthusiasts and travellers looking to explore Scotland’s east coast.

Things to Do in St Andrews and Fife

  • St Andrews Old Course: Visit the world’s most famous golf course, whether to play a round, explore the links or simply enjoy the coastal views.
  • West Sands Beach: Walk along this expansive sandy beach, known for its natural beauty and links to film and local history.
  • Historic Towns and Villages: Explore charming places such as St Andrews, Falkland and Anstruther, each offering independent shops and cafés.
  • Coastal and Countryside Walks: Enjoy scenic trails along the Fife Coastal Path or inland routes through rolling countryside.

Best places to stay in St Andrews and Fife - Hotels and Accommodation Options

  • The Arran, St Andrews Links: A charming boutique townhouse just off North Street, offering adults-only accommodation with individually designed suites, modern amenities and premium comfort, perfectly placed for exploring St Andrews, the Old Course and West Sands Beach.
  • Lomond Hills Hotel & Health Club: Located in Freuchie, this welcoming hotel offers leisure and spa facilities including an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, hot tub and fitness centre, with convenient access to St Andrews, St Andrews Bay and key attractions across Fife.
  • Laurel Bank Hotel: A Channel 4 ‘Four in a Bed’ winner, this friendly hotel features an on-site restaurant, bar and beer garden, and is well positioned near Markinch railway station for exploring Glenrothes and the wider Fife region.

Now that you’ve read through our guide to the best places to stay in Scotland, it’s easy to see just how much variety the country has to offer. From city hotels and spa breaks to lochside retreats, national parks and coastal escapes, there’s something to suit every type of trip. Browse Wowcher’s latest hotel and accommodation deals to discover great-value stays across Scotland and pick the destination that feels right for your next break.