Scotland’s cities are worth visiting for more than just a day or two. Why not spend a whole week getting to know a new haunt? Behind each of these ancient cities, you’ll find the places to be for food, fun and culture.
Pick a neighbourhood and start calling yourself a local!
1. FINNIESTON, GLASGOW
A visit to Finnieston is always a great shout on a night out to Glasgow, but wouldn’t it be nice to stay in the area for a bit longer? It is found on the north bank of the River Clyde, sandwiched between the city centre and the West End.
It’s one of Glasgow’s trendiest spots mixing bohemian chic with gothic architecture, charming cobbles and shops. Try Hidden Lane and De Courcy’s Arcade for some unique finds. It’s known for the excellent foodie offering. Be sure to spend a lot of time checking out restaurants in the area.
2. OLD ABERDEEN
Aberdeen’s Old Town dates back as far as the Picts, with beautiful cathedrals and university buildings framing the north, and the easterly harbour looking out to the North Sea.
WHY VISIT?
- Catch the sunrise at Aberdeen Harbour, a spot known for dolphin spotting in the summer months.
- Its ancient streets are home to a unique array of local businesses. On Great Western Road, check out Rosemary Planet for eco-friendly finds and locally sourced products. Grab a coffee and a cake at Almondine on Chapel Street.
- Old Aberdeen is the location of several unique buildings, including St Machar’s Cathedral, King’s College and the Brig o’ Balgownie which dates to the 13th century. Wind up at Seaton Park, the perfect place to relax!
- The Aberdeen Art Gallery is a fascinating place to while away the hours.
3. STOCKBRIDGE, EDINBURGH
Stockbridge is just north west of Princes Street and is one of the loveliest neighbourhoods in Edinburgh. It’s easy to reach from the city centre, but the area has a small village atmosphere that you’ll absolutely adore.
WHY VISIT?
- Wake up to artisan coffee from one of the Raeburn Place cafés. Stroll past the independent shops and boutiques or take a good book to Inverleith Park.
- Explore the West End by taking the Water of Leith pathway to the National Gallery of Modern Art.
- The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh always has something colourful to admire at any time of year.
- The Stockbridge Market is on every Sunday throughout the year so you can pick up treats and products from lots of local businesses.
4. OLD TOWN, STIRLING
Staying in a smaller city is a smart choice if you want to enjoy a stress-free type of city break. For one thing, it’ll only take two minutes for you to get your bearings! In Stirling, enjoy views of the mighty hilltop castle, wander cobbled streets and gaze out to legendary landscapes. This is the old stomping grounds of Rob Roy and William Wallace – if they liked it, maybe you will too?
WHY VISIT?
- Stroll down ancient streets and admire places like the Church of Holy Rude.
- Pick up a wee pressie for yourself from Contempo on King Street, a cute little shop offering unique handcrafted gifts from Scottish artists.
- Explore the dark history of the Stirling Old Town Jail before enjoying some of the best vistas in the city from the Observation Tower.
- Stirling is a great base for lots of other adventures too like trips to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
5. CITY CENTRE, DUNDEE
Cool and creative, Dundee has always been full of bright ideas. After all, the easterly city is famous for inventing marmalade, the Beano and Grand Theft Auto.
WHY VISIT?
- Jute, jam and journalism were the major industries here once upon a time. Nowadays, Dundee has lots of other interests – design, contemporary art, medicine, to name just a few. You can discover them all from wherever you stay in this compact city on the River Tay.
- Catch a moment of peace and quiet in the gorgeous University of Dundee’s Botanic Gardens to the west of the city.
- At Wild Shore Dundee try a new adventure activity, such as cable wakeboarding!
- Shop at Le Freak Records on Perth Road and Assai Records on Union Street.
- Find the trendiest designer eye wear at Spex Pistols. It’s a fun shop to visit, even if you don’t need to wear glasses!
- Catch a must-see exhibition or enjoy a delicious lunch at V&A Dundee.
6. CITY CENTRE, PERTH
The “Fair City” of Perth is centuries old, but in fact, it’s one of Scotland’s newest cities. You’ll find two green spaces and a picturesque city centre filled with attractions, restaurants and historical stories weaved throughout. It’s easy to feel right at home in the city centre, with everything you want to do within easy walking distance.
WHY VISIT?
- The highest of five hills to the east of Perth, Kinnoull Hill is perfect for photographers and sunset seekers.
- Take home some new interior décor pieces from the contemporary homeware shop, Boo Vake.
- Get a cultural fix at the Perth Museum & Art Gallery and The Fergusson Gallery.
- For shows, music and evening entertainment, check out the programmes for Perth Theatre and Perth Concert Hall.
- Admire the sculptures along the River Tay Public Art Trail which meanders across the city.
7. THE RIVERSIDE, INVERNESS
Located just across the River Ness from the city centre, The Riverside is a fabulous base for an Inverness adventure. This is the perfect spot for exploring city centre attractions and for venturing out into the Highlands for day trips.
WHY VISIT?
- Discover the Inverness Botanic Gardens. Find some peace and quiet, and explore leafy pathways and the Tropical House – the ‘hottest spot in the Highlands’.
- Head to Leakey’s Bookshop and find a fabulous second-hand read for your holiday.
- Climb to the top of the Tomnahurich Cemetery Hill. Laced with history and folklore, it’s also known as the ‘Fairy Hill of Inverness’ and has amazing city views.
- Delve into the fascinating history of the Highlands at the Highland Archive Centre. There are records here dating from the 14th century.
- Keep an eye on the Eden Court Theatre for evening entertainment and shows returning to this gem of a theatre.
8. THE MAYGATE, DUNFERMLINE
In May 2022, Dunfermline became Scotland’s eighth city after being awarded city status as part of HM The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations. Start your visit in the Maygate, part of Dunfermline’s medieval Heritage Quarter, and visit the independent shops and bustling cafés located next to some of the city’s most historic buildings.
WHY VISIT?
- Pay a visit to Abbot House. This beautiful Grade A listed house dates back over 500 years and is called the “Pink House” by locals. There’s a gift shop, workshop, artist’s studio, coffee shop, Go Escape room and education centre. Visit the 17th century Walled Garden originally cultivated by Lady Anne Halkett, a herbal apothecary and midwife famed for her healing powers.
- The Secret Door is a treasure trove for antique hunters. This little shop was in the national spotlight recently when it featured in an episode of BBC One’s Antiques Road Show.
- Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries was the first library built by Dunfermline-born Andrew Carnegie, the American industrialist and philanthropist. It has a museum, exhibition galleries, children’s library and a mezzanine café with views of Dunfermline Abbey and the Heritage Quarter.
