Scotland is one of those places that feels like a storybook come to life. Rolling green hills, ancient castles, misty lochs, and the sound of bagpipes on the street. After spending time exploring the country, I’ve put together my top five must-dos that really made my experience so incredible. Whether you’re visiting for a week or studying abroad for a semester, these are experiences that make Scotland unforgettable.
1. Venture into the Scottish Highlands
No trip to Scotland is complete without experiencing the Highlands. The huge mountains, lochs, and train bridges are straight out of a fantasy film (and many actually are!). Driving through Glencoe or hiking near Fort William offers some of the most breathtaking views in the world. My advice? Pack layers, bring a camera, and be ready to stop often, no one view in the highlands looks the same and it’s just incredible.
2. Try Haggis (Yes, Really!)
Haggis might have a reputation for being an “adventurous” food, but it’s a must-try. It’s Scotland’s national dish for a reason, rich, savory, and surprisingly delicious. I tried it the traditional way, served over neeps and tatties (mashed turnips and potatoes), and it quickly became one of my favorite meals. You’ll find it everywhere, from cozy pubs to fine dining spots, but for the full experience, try it at a local ceilidh (a Scottish dance party) and experience a Haggis Ceremony.
3. Explore Edinburgh Castle and the Crafting Scene
Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline and gives a glimpse into centuries of history, from royal intrigue to military might. I visited multiple times with friends and family, and they also loved it. But beyond the castle walls, Edinburgh’s crafting scene is what really charmed me. Tucked between the historic closes and alleyways are shops filled with handmade jewelry, pottery, and textiles. I loved watching local artisans at work and even picked up a few handcrafted souvenirs. It’s the perfect way to connect with Scotland’s creative side and get your holiday gifts sorted while supporting local makers.
4. Check Out the Riverside Museum in Glasgow
Glasgow often gets overshadowed by Edinburgh, but it’s a vibrant city full of culture and innovation. One hidden gem is the Riverside Museum, also known as the Transportation Museum. It’s not your typical museum, it’s interactive, beautifully designed, and genuinely fun. You can walk through recreated old streets, explore vintage cars and trains, and even climb aboard a tall ship right outside. It gave me such an appreciation for Scotland’s industrial and maritime history. The museum is free, and they often have themed events, I went to their Star Wars event and they had the coolest scavenger hunt.
5. Take a Weaving Class in Stirling
One of my most unique experiences in Scotland was taking a weaving class in Stirling. Learning to weave my own tartan connected me to a centuries-old Scottish tradition in a hands-on way. It’s meditative, creative, and deeply cultural. Plus, you get to take home your own handmade piece, a perfect souvenir that means so much more than something bought in a gift shop. I did an hour-long workshop hosted at Stirling Castle (another great place to visit!) through Radical Weavers.
Whether you’re chasing castles, diving into local cuisine, or trying your hand at traditional crafts, Scotland is a place that rewards curiosity and creativity. These five experiences gave me a deeper appreciation for the country’s history and art and if you do even one of these things, you will already have had an amazing trip. The more you add, the better it gets.
If you're interested in exploring more of Scotland, check out all of CIS Abroad's available programs here!
Blog by Caitlyn O'Dell, Ithaca College