Discover Scotland: the Land of Cakes (no we are not kidding)

Things to know when visiting Scotland

 Here are a few stats and tips that we picked up in our time here. Let us know if there is anything we should add!

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* We will be updating this section with a new format soon

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Total Population: 5.47 million

Capital City: Edinburgh (518,500)

Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP) | Driving: Left Side

Measurement Standard: Metric (km)

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⪢ Entry requirements

The entry requirements for Scotland vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. However, there are some general requirements that all visitors must meet, as follows:

• You must have a valid passport.

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your intended date of departure from the UK.

• You must have a visa if you are not a citizen of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland.

• You must have proof of onward travel.

• You must have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Scotland.

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If you are a citizen of the EU, the EEA, or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to enter Scotland. However, you must still have a valid passport and proof of onward travel.

If you are a citizen of a country that requires a visa to enter the UK, you can apply for a visa online or at a visa application center. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your visit. For example, if you are visiting Scotland for tourism, you will need a tourist visa.

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You can find more information about the entry requirements on the Scottish government website.

⪢ Language

English is the most widely spoken language in Scotland. It is the language of government, education, and the media. Officially called Scots, it is a Germanic language that is closely related to English. It is spoken by a majority of the population, mainly in the Lowlands.  Scots is a complex language with a long history. It is descended from Old English, but it has been influenced by many other languages, including Gaelic, French, and Dutch. Scots is a very expressive language, and it is often used in poetry and literature. 

Scottish Gaelic is also spoken but is a minority language, a form of Celtic that is native to Scotland. It is mainly spoken in the Highlands and Islands.

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⪢ Currency

The official currency is the British Pound (£). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash for smaller establishments. Convert your currency here.

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⪢ Weather

Scotland has a temperate oceanic climate, which means that it is cool and wet throughout the year. The average temperature in January is around 4 degrees Celsius (40 F), and the average temperature in July is around 18.3 Celsius (65 F). There is a lot of rain in Scotland, with an average of 130 days of rainfall per year. The wettest months are October and November, and the driest months are May and June.

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The weather in Scotland can be very changeable, and it is not uncommon to have four seasons in one day. It is also important to note that the weather in the Highlands is much colder and wetter than the weather in the Lowlands.

Overall, the weather in Scotland is best described as cool, wet, and changeable. If you are planning a trip to Scotland, be sure to pack for all types of weather.

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⪢ Cultural Etiquette

Scottish people are generally friendly and polite. It's customary to greet with a handshake, maintain good eye contact during conversations, and observe basic courtesy.

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Familiarize yourself with Scottish customs and traditions, such as the ceilidh (traditional Scottish gathering with music and dancing), and be respectful of local cultural practices and sensitivities.

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⪢ Opening Hours

Some shops and attractions have limited opening hours, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas. Plan your visits accordingly and be aware of Sundays when some businesses may have reduced hours or be closed.

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⪢ Midges

In certain areas and during certain times of the year, particularly around water and in the countryside, you may encounter midges, tiny flying insects. Consider bringing insect repellent to ward them off.

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⪢ Scottish Cuisine

Scottish cuisine is a delightful fusion of hearty and traditional dishes, influenced by its rich agricultural heritage and coastal surroundings. Traditional Scottish fare often features ingredients such as beef, lamb, game, fish, oats, and root vegetables. Iconic dishes like haggis (a savory pudding made with sheep's offal), Scotch broth (a hearty vegetable and meat soup), and Cullen skink (a creamy smoked haddock soup) showcase the country's rustic flavors.

Scotland is also renowned for its seafood, including fresh salmon, langoustines, and scallops, which are often served simply to let their natural flavors shine. Whisky, an integral part of Scottish culture, is celebrated worldwide, with distilleries scattered throughout the country offering tours and tastings.

Additionally, Scotland's culinary scene has embraced modern influences, offering a diverse range of international cuisines and innovative fusion dishes. Whether indulging in traditional delicacies or exploring contemporary flavors, Scotland's cuisine provides a memorable and satisfying gastronomic experience.

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⪢ Whiskey Tastings

Scotch whisky is enjoyed all over the world, and it is a popular choice for both casual and serious drinkers. If you are interested in trying Scotch whisky, there are many different brands and types to choose from. You can find Scotch whisky in most liquor stores, and you can also find it at many bars and restaurants.

If you're interested in trying Scotch whisky, consider visiting distilleries for tastings. Some may require prior booking, and it's advisable to have a designated driver or use public transportation.

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⪢ Transportation

Scotland has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries, making it convenient to travel between cities and explore different regions.

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⪢ Health & Safety

When visiting Scotland, it's important to prioritize health and safety. Scotland has well-developed medical facilities, but it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Keep prescription medications in their original packaging.

Scotland is generally a safe destination, but take usual precautions to protect your belongings. If participating in outdoor activities, follow safety guidelines and consider using a qualified guide. Be aware of emergency services and the location of your embassy or consulate. Stay updated with travel advisories and guidance. By taking these precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable visit to Scotland.

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In case of emergencies, dial 999 for immediate assistance from the police, ambulance, or fire services. Make a note of emergency contact numbers and the location of the nearest embassy or consulate of your home country.

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⪢ Must-See Places

Scotland boasts numerous historic sites and castles. Consider purchasing an Explorer Pass or Historic Scotland membership to save money and gain access to multiple attractions. Check out our discover section for our recommendations.

⪢ Driving

When driving in Scotland, it's important to familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and regulations. Scotland follows left-hand driving, so ensure you are comfortable with driving on the left side of the road. Pay attention to road signs and speed limits, which are typically posted in miles per hour (mph). It's recommended to rent a car with automatic transmission if you're not accustomed to driving manual.

Take caution when driving on rural roads, as they may be narrow, winding, and less familiar. Be aware of wildlife, particularly in rural areas, and exercise extra caution during dusk and dawn. Parking regulations vary, so familiarize yourself with local parking restrictions and use designated parking areas when available. Overall, taking these driving considerations into account will help ensure a safe and pleasant experience while exploring Scotland by car.

⪢ Tipping

Tipping is customary in Scotland, but it's not as prevalent as in some other countries. It's generally appreciated to round up the bill or leave a 10% tip for good service.

⪢ Connectivity

The connectivity in Scotland is generally good, with most areas having access to fast broadband speeds. According to Ofcom, the UK's communications regulator, over 90% of homes in Scotland can access superfast broadband speeds of 30Mbps or more.

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Use public Wi-Fi: There is free Wi-Fi available in many public places in Scotland, such as airports, train stations, and cafes. However, be aware that public Wi-Fi can be insecure, so you should only use it for browsing the web and not for anything that requires sensitive information, such as online banking or shopping. If you are concerned about security, you can use a VPN when you are connected to public Wi-Fi. A VPN will encrypt your traffic so that it cannot be intercepted by third parties.​

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Buy a local SIM card: The cell coverage in Scotland is generally good, with most areas having good to excellent coverage. However do bear in mind that there are some rural areas where the coverage may be less reliable. These are the top providers for short and long term plans:

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EE: EE is the largest mobile network provider in Scotland, and it has the best coverage in most areas.
Vodafone: Vodafone is the second-largest mobile network provider in Scotland, and it has good coverage in most areas.
Three: Three is the third-largest mobile network provider in Scotland, and it has good coverage in most areas.