Scotland's Highlands, Islands and Cities

Inverness, the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, is a city where ancient history meets stunning natural beauty. Situated at the mouth of the River Ness, Inverness is often called the "Gateway to the Highlands" and serves as the perfect starting point for exploring Scotland's rugged landscapes and rich heritage. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is Inverness Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the River Ness. While the castle itself is not open to the public, the surrounding grounds offer spectacular views of the city and the waterway that inspired the mythical Loch Ness monster.

Inverness is steeped in history, from the bloody Battle of Culloden in 1746, where the last pitched battle on British soil was fought, to the ancient standing stones of Clava Cairns, which date back over 4,000 years. The Culloden Battlefield, just a short drive from the city, is a hauntingly beautiful site where visitors can walk the battlefield, explore the interactive exhibits at the visitor center, and pay respects at the memorial cairn. Meanwhile, the mysterious Clava Cairns provide a glimpse into Scotland’s prehistoric past and are said to have inspired Diana Gabaldon's "Outlander" series.

Beyond its historical allure, Inverness boasts a lively cultural scene. The city's Victorian Market offers a delightful array of independent shops, cafés, and artisan crafts, perfect for those seeking unique souvenirs. Meanwhile, Eden Court Theatre, the largest arts venue in the Scottish Highlands, hosts a variety of performances, from theater to live music, ensuring there’s always something happening in the city. A stroll along the picturesque River Ness will also lead visitors to the Ness Islands, a tranquil spot that showcases the city’s natural beauty, where you can cross Victorian-era footbridges and watch the river flow by.

A fun fact about Inverness: It was recently named the happiest city in Scotland in a survey conducted by Rightmove, thanks to its stunning surroundings, strong community spirit, and slower pace of life. Inverness is also famous for its proximity to Loch Ness, where visitors can embark on boat tours to seek out the legendary Nessie or explore the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland's most picturesque castles on the loch’s shores. Whether drawn by the lure of legends, the tranquility of the Highlands, or a deep dive into Scottish history, Inverness offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Picturesque Glasgow will instantly charm you with its collection of stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and trendy restaurants and bars. Scotland’s vibrant and eclectic cultural center, Glasgow is an essential destination for travelers to the United Kingdom.

One highlight of this eye-catching city includes its Gothic-style architecture, which seemingly transports you to the height of the Middle Ages. Glasgow Cathedral, perhaps the city’s most famous Gothic structure, boasts vaulted ceilings and magnificent stained-glass windows. The University of Glasgow, dating back to the fifteenth century, is replete with historic buildings, including the iconic arches of the Cloisters. Nearby Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, fashioned from deep red sandstone, houses thousands of unique pieces of European art and remains one of Glasgow’s most visited tourist attractions. Other notable sites include the Victorian-era City Chambers, the sprawling Necropolis cemetery, and the lush, colorful Botanic Gardens near Kibble Palace.

Indulge in Glasgow’s culinary scene and social life! Be sure to tour one of the city’s distilleries to sample local whisky, or step inside any of the historic pubs scattered throughout the city center and buy a fresh pint of ale. Savor a full Scottish breakfast, complete with eggs, black pudding, and baked beans, or better yet, try some spicy curry, a favorite meal for many Glaswegians. Live music and nighttime bar crawls are a must in Glasgow; stop by King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, which has hosted many of today’s iconic bands, and you might just catch the next up-and-coming act.

Start your next adventure in Glasgow, Scotland!

Picturesque Glasgow will instantly charm you with its collection of stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and trendy restaurants and bars. Scotland’s vibrant and eclectic cultural center, Glasgow is an essential destination for travelers to the United Kingdom.

One highlight of this eye-catching city includes its Gothic-style architecture, which seemingly transports you to the height of the Middle Ages. Glasgow Cathedral, perhaps the city’s most famous Gothic structure, boasts vaulted ceilings and magnificent stained-glass windows. The University of Glasgow, dating back to the fifteenth century, is replete with historic buildings, including the iconic arches of the Cloisters. Nearby Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, fashioned from deep red sandstone, houses thousands of unique pieces of European art and remains one of Glasgow’s most visited tourist attractions. Other notable sites include the Victorian-era City Chambers, the sprawling Necropolis cemetery, and the lush, colorful Botanic Gardens near Kibble Palace.

Indulge in Glasgow’s culinary scene and social life! Be sure to tour one of the city’s distilleries to sample local whisky, or step inside any of the historic pubs scattered throughout the city center and buy a fresh pint of ale. Savor a full Scottish breakfast, complete with eggs, black pudding, and baked beans, or better yet, try some spicy curry, a favorite meal for many Glaswegians. Live music and nighttime bar crawls are a must in Glasgow; stop by King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, which has hosted many of today’s iconic bands, and you might just catch the next up-and-coming act.

Start your next adventure in Glasgow, Scotland!