daily travel expenses scotland

How Much Does a Scotland Trip Cost? 2024 Budget

Whether you are dreaming of the lush green Scottish Highlands, the cobbled streets of Edinburgh , the icy waters of deep lochs, rugged castles, ginger-headed men in kilts, or cuddling hairy coos, it is time to start planning your Scotland trip budget! I’m going to walk you through exactly what a Scotland trip costs based on what I spent on my recent one week Scottish road trip .

I’ve visited Scotland twice now and I just can’t get enough of this beautiful country. On this recent visit, I took a one week road trip with friends and we stayed two nights in Edinburgh, two nights in Inverness, two nights on the Isle of Skye, one night in Glencoe, and one night in Glasgow — which is a perfect itinerary to see the Scottish highlights. However, if you only have seven nights, you could cut out either the night in Glasgow or Glencoe.

This Scotland budget includes how much I spent on airfare, lodging, car rental, gas, parking, activities, and food, as well as the average costs. I know you are anxious to know the total Scotland trip cost, so before I go into details, here is the bottom line. A one-week trip to Scotland for two people, traveling in the summer, costs approximately $5,287, or $378 per person, per day. But keep reading to see the breakdown.

Scotland Trip Cost

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

Before we get into the details, here are some important considerations to keep in mind when you are planning a trip to Scotland:

• Hotels book up early in the summer, especially in places like the Isle of Skye. To find the most accommodation options at the best prices, try to make your reservations at least four to six months in advance.
• If you would like to visit a lot of castles and gardens, you may be able to save on entrance fees and parking with a membership to the National Trust for Scotland .
• Hotels in Edinburgh are pricey so try to spread out your trip by visiting other destinations in Scotland.
• When renting a car, if you want an automatic transmission, be sure to reserve well in advance for the best availability and rates. Remember to rent the smallest car that will fit your luggage. You will appreciate it when driving on the one-lane gravel roads in Scotland’s interior.
• Pack wisely using my Scotland packing list
• Be sure to read the rest of my Scotland travel tips

Airfare to Scotland Cost

You will find the most flight options into Edinburgh, but to save money, you may want to look at flying into London instead and then either taking an inexpensive regional flight or riding the train up to Edinburgh. You can often find flight sales to London or you could use a budget airline like Norse Atlantic. Another option is taking Aer Lingus and connecting in Dublin.

I was lucky to find a flight deal and booked my flight to Edinburgh using only 20K American Express Membership Rewards points plus fees, which I transferred to Virgin Atlantic to book a Delta code-share flight. I then booked a return flight from London (since we were road tripping through both Scotland and Wales ) using 52K JetBlue TrueBlue points plus fees.

If you want to find the best way to accumulate points and miles through credit card spending and sign up bonuses, I’d suggest downloading the  Travel Freely app  to track your credit cards and learn how to earn points.

I know not everyone has a stash of loyalty points to use, so I highly recommend signing up for a flight deal subscription service such as Going .

If you are flexible with your dates and keep an eye on flight deals, you should be able to find flights for $500-900 to Scotland (even if you decide to take a flight deal to London and then use Ryan Air or Easy Jet to get to Edinburgh.)

Total Airfare Cost: $1400 ($700 x 2 people)

Scotland Accommodations Cost

As I mentioned above, lodging in cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow can be pricey, but you can find affordable accommodations in other parts of the country. Below I have outlined where I stayed and what it will cost for similar dates in 2024, along with some alternatives.

On this trip, the three of us shared a two bedroom loft apartment at Blackfriars Lofts in Old Town, for $608 per night (or $202.67 per person per night.) This flat can sleep 4-6 and would work for a family. However, if you are a couple, you may want to consider something smaller to save money.

On my previous visit, I stayed in New Town at the Eden Locke boutique hotel, which I loved and would be perfect for a couple or solo traveler. For the same dates, that costs just $260 per night.

Find more places to stay in Edinburgh:

Cost for 2 nights in Edinburgh: $520 ($260 x 2)

Since I was traveling with three friends, we decided to rent a three-bedroom Airbnb in Inverness for $319.44 a night (split three ways that was quite a deal.) However, if you are traveling solo or as a couple, you may want to consider the AC Hotel Inverness at $269 per night, which is located downtown and within a short walk to many restaurants, bars, and shops (like Leakey’s Bookshop!)

For more of a splurge, stay at the luxurious Ness Walk , or try the River Ness Hotel or the Kingsmill Hotel for just a touch more. If these are all too rich for your taste, there are a number of guest houses located on the outskirts of town for under $200 a night.

Cost for 2 nights in Inverness: $538 ($269 x 2 nights)

Isle of Skye

It was April by the time we went to book our lodging on the Isle of Skye for late June and many of the cottages and hotels were already booked. We decided to try something different and booked cabins at The Bracken Hide , which is a new adventure hotel with individual hobbit house-shaped cabins. Since these only sleep two in a queen bed, we each booked our own for £240 a night.

Cost for 2 nights on Isle of Skye: $608 ($304 x 2 nights)

We debating driving straight from the Isle of Skye to Glasgow, but since we wanted to spend more time in the Highlands, we booked one night at the simple but scenic Clachaig Inn for $226.50 per room. There isn’t a lot in the area and this is a classic pub and popular with hikers. As long as you don’t need something fancy, you can’t beat the view from the Clachaig Inn.

Cost for 1 night in Glencoe: $259

Glasgow (Optional Additional Night)

If you want to add an additional night to your trip for a chance to see Glasgow, I really enjoyed the location of the Glasgow Grosvenor Hotel , however, there are many options for $250-300 per night.

Total Scotland Accommodations Cost: $1,925

Scotland Car Rental Cost

As I mentioned before, you will save money if you book a manual transmission car, but if you aren’t comfortable driving stick, especially on some of the narrow and winding roads in Scotland, you will need to pay a bit more for an automatic. I use Auto Europe to compare rates from different vendors to find the best deal.

We ended up booking with Enterprise and it cost $826.92, but that was for a two week road trip through Scotland and Wales. If you are just staying for one week and picking up on your departure from Edinburgh, it should only cost $367 – 700 for a compact or midsize.

Even though we complain about the price of gas in the U.S., it is more expensive in the U.K. During our time in Scotland, we filled up the car three times for a total cost of $307.

You will need to pay for parking at most of the car parks around Scotland. It is based on how long you stay, but plan on spending about $60 in parking.

Total cost for a rental car, gas, and parking: $860

Activities in Scotland

Luckily, Scotland is quite affordable when it comes to activities as you don’t need to take expensive tours or pay high museum fees. For the most part, you will be enjoying the outdoors and the gorgeous scenery. However, if this is your first trip to Scotland, there are a few paid activities that I would recommend. Some of these I did on my first trip and some on my second: (cost shown per person)

• Edinburgh castle: $24.70
• Palace of Holyroodhouse: $25.35
• Afternoon tea: $82 (at the Colonnades at Signet Library, my favorite of 4 I have done in Scotland)
• Culloden Battlefield: $17.74
• Urquhart Castle: $16.47
• Eilean Donan Castle: $13.94
• Dunvegan Castle: $20.91

Total activities cost: $201.11 x 2 people = $402.22

Food Costs in Scotland

You will find amazing restaurants in both Edinburgh and Glasgow, but outside of the cities, the food is simpler and more affordable (for the most part.) Looking through my receipts, I spent $360 on food during my week in Scotland. In general, you can estimate approximately:

• Breakfast: $5.00-10.00 per day
• Lunch: $15.00 per day
• Dinner: $15.00-30.00 per day

Total cost for food: $350 x 2 people = $700

Total Scotland Trip Cost

A one-week trip to Scotland costs approximately $5,287 for two people traveling from the U.S. in late June to early July, or $378 per person, per day.

Of course, if you want a luxury trip or need to hire a driver because you aren’t comfortable driving on the small roads, the cost can increase significantly. You can also save a bit more on accommodations if you aren’t picky. But this is a solid estimate of a Scotland trip cost for the moderate to upscale traveler.

Still Deciding? Find more average trip budgets for:

• Europe trip cost
• Ireland trip cost
• London trip cost
• Iceland trip cost
• Paris trip cost
• Portugal trip cost
• Italy trip cost
• Greece trip cost
• Morocco trip cost
• Japan trip cost

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: January 4, 2024

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Is Scotland Expensive? Trip To Scotland Cost Guide in 2024

Last Updated on December 11, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Is Scotland expensive? And how much is a trip to Scotland? These are often questions that come to mind before planning a trip and booking the next flight to Edinburgh.

Travelling in Scotland inspires images of lush green cascading hills dotted with purple heather, of enormous, mysterious monsters dwelling in the depths of a loch, of ancient, mystical standing stones, and of enjoying a golden, smokey whisky among the backdrop of a stormy sea. However, it is essential to understand the expenses associated with such a trip before you get too far into your planning

Scotland is a more expensive destination compared to other European destinations, though there are ways to save money. You can expect the average trip to Scotland cost for travellers that want to vacation in Scotland to be £70 to £290 per person per day (approximately $87 – $364 USD).

This can, however, be reduced if you plan on spending some nights camping, not doing many paid activities and cooking most of your own meals.

Table of Contents

Trip to Scotland Cost Guide

This guide will break down how variables such as accommodation, food, entertainment and activities will impact your average Scotland trip cost and help you understand how expensive is Scotland.

Accommodation Prices

Like most elsewhere in the world, accommodation will (most likely) leave the biggest dent in your Scotland travel budget. There is, however, a lot of option when it comes to budget accommodation.

There tends to be at least one hostel in most larger towns and in the bigger cities — such as Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow — there are multiple hostels to choose from. On average, the least expensive dorm bed in a hostel will cost roughly £20 per night.

If you would prefer not to stay in a hostel, there are a number of B&B’s dotted throughout Scotland and a room there will cost something between £70 – 100 per night.

For those interested in something a bit on the higher end, expect an upmarket hotel to start at around £150-300 per night depending on the season and location.

Those looking to rent an entire one-bedroom apartment either on Airbnb or elsewhere, expect those prices to land somewhere around £90-120 per night.

You should therefore budget to spend a minimum of about £20 per night per person for accommodation and around £40-50 per person per night if staying in mid-range places and £75-150 per person on the higher end. This is if you’re splitting the costs between two people.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention one of the most popular accommodation options in Scotland — camping. If you truly want to save money and also love to be in the great outdoors, camping is a fantastic option. The wonderful thing about Scotland is that it is also perfectly legal to wild camp in many places and that is absolutely free.

Transportation Prices

The cost of transportation is another area that you need to account for. If you wish to cover a lot of ground on your own schedule and maybe add a few off-beat destinations to your list, I would highly recommend that you hire a car.

Not only is a road trip one of the best ways to see Scotland, but the average daily price of a rental car isn’t extraordinarily high, especially if you offset the cost with a few nights of wild camping, as we did.

On average, expect car hire prices to start at around £50 per day if you go through an internationally recognised provider. This doesn’t include extra costs associated, such as full insurance, or the cost of petrol.

Depending on if your accommodation has parking or where you choose to visit, you are going to have to factor that into your costs, as well. However, it’s hard to put an absolute number on this as it’s hard to know the prices depending on where you visit.

Keep in mind that a manual transmission is almost always more affordable, there are often weekly discounts, and it’s frequently much cheaper to pick up and return the car at the same place. You can browse car rental options here.

To keep costs down even further, we recommend you buy a policy from iCarHireInsurance  who offer full excess coverage at a fraction what car rental companies charge.

If you don’t drive or would otherwise prefer to use public transport, it is worth bearing in mind that bus and train prices anywhere in the UK are quite high. You will almost never find a bus or train ticket, no matter the distance, for under £20 (one way) if booking on the day.

The best way to save money on buses or trains is to book far in advance where prices can be significantly cheaper. if you want to unless you book extremely far in advance and on sale. We recommend using Omio to find the best savings on trains in the UK.

While both bus and train connections are good in Scotland, they’re still not ideal if you want to explore more rural areas of the country (especially in the Scottish highlands and islands) or if you want to be flexible with your itinerary, which is why I would generally recommend self-driving around Scotland .

If you’re looking to visit some of Scotland’s many islands, you’re likely going to need to hop on a ferry to get there. Keep in mind that a ticket as a passenger is going to be significantly cheaper than if you’re bringing a vehicle with you.

Ferry prices vary depending on which islands you happen to be visiting and how long the journey is. For instance, a ferry from Aberdeen to the Shetland Islands is going to be much more expensive than a short journey from Oban to the Isle of Mull.

Food Prices

You have to eat multiple times every day and, unfortunately, that tends to take a toll on your wallet and your travel budget.

Scotland food prices, not surprisingly, vary depending on where you choose to eat. Like pretty much everywhere else in the world, the cheapest food option would be heading to a supermarket and cooking for yourself.

Grocery prices aren’t very expensive in Scotland and there are many budget supermarkets to shop in such as Lidl or Aldi.

For lunch, fish and chips from a takeaway chippy is a great option and you can get a large portion for around £10-15 outside of major cities (depending on where you’re eating).

If you’re keen to get a nice meal during your Scotland trip, lunch is a great time to do this as many higher-end restaurants offer pretty good lunch specials where you can get a two- or three-course meal for around £20-25. The same meal will cost you significantly more at dinner time.

For a pub meal — be that for lunch or dinner — expect to pay about £10-15 for a main meal, again depending on what you get.

Therefore, you should expect to spend around £10 per person per day if cooking your own meals and closer to £20-30 per person per day if you want to have one or two sit-down meals per day. If you want to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner out, then expect to pay closer to £40-50 per person per day.

Activity Prices

To be completely honest, you don’t really have to spend anything on activities and you can still get a lot out of your visit to Scotland.

Many museums and attractions in Scotland are free and it doesn’t cost a dime to go for a hike or wander around a quaint town or city. However, if you do want to throw in a few paid experiences to your Scotland travel budget, here’s what to expect to pay.

Something that is a popular activity in Scotland is to go on a boat tour if you’re in a coastal area. Depending on what is offered, you can expect this kind of tour to land you somewhere around £40 per person.

Another popular activity when visiting Scotland is to go on a cruise of Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle, which typically will cost around £20-30 depending on the type of ticket you buy.

If you like Scotch and you’re interested in seeing how the whisky is made, I would highly recommend going on at least one distillery tour. Most of the basic tours offered by distilleries will cost around £10-30 depending on the distillery and will include at least one dram of whisky for a tasting.

While many museums in Scotland are free to enter, there are some historical sites that do charge an entry fee, such as the Edinburgh Castle. They don’t tend to be more than about £15-20 and are almost always worth it, as they go to the general preservation of important sites.

Therefore, if you plan to do around one activity or per day you should expect to spend on average £15-20 per person per day.

Entertainment Prices

Generally speaking, entertainment won’t add a lot to your Scotland trip cost. While that may be partly because there really isn’t much on offer for nightlife outside of the bigger cities, drink prices in Scotland aren’t exorbitant.

At a local pub, a pint will cost around £4-5 and a dram of single malt whisky will land somewhere around there as well, at about £4-5 depending on the vintage of the particular whisky you’ve selected.

It is, of course, worth noting that it is definitely cheaper to buy your booze at the supermarket. However, one of the best things about travelling through Scotland is experiencing the local pub culture and luckily, it doesn’t cost much to grab a pint, chill out, and perhaps listen to some live local music.

If you’re not a big drinker then you can possibly reduce this expense to zero, otherwise plan to allocate around £5-20 per person per day if you’d like to have a few drinks per day but not go on a binge.

Average Trip to Scotland Cost

Visiting Scotland doesn’t have to be an abhorrently expensive trip and you can keep costs quite low without sacrificing the quality of your holiday. Take the time to prioritise what is important for you and make adjustments to your Scotland travel budget accordingly.

Below is more or less what you can expect to spend per person per day while travelling in Scotland on a budget to mid-range trip, assuming that you’re travelling as a couple, have rented a car and are splitting accommodation and transport costs.

Accommodation:  £20 – £150 / night

Transport:  £20 – 50 / day

Food:  £10 – £50 / day

Activities : £15 – 20 / day

Entertainment:  £5 – £20 / day

All in all, you can expect your average trip cost to be about £70 to £290 per person per day. If you are smart and savvy about where you spend your money, you can offset your average daily costs by spending a number of your nights wild camping, making your own breakfast every day, and cooking your own dinners many nights of the trip.

This average Scotland trip cost doesn’t factor in pre-trip expenses such as flights to Scotland and travel insurance.

For travel insurance, World Nomads   offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road. Another affordable option is SafetyWing which is great for travellers on a budget but it doesn’t offer as comprehensive coverage.

You also might need to buy some specific items for your trip such as a quality waterproof jacket , good hiking shoes and an umbrella for those frequent Scottish rains!

It can be hard to devise the perfect Scotland budget and to stick to it at that. It is definitely possible to save money in Scotland and hopefully, this article gave you a better idea as to how much a Scotland trip will cost.

Are you wondering about the prices in Scotland? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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14 Best Stops on the Edinburgh to Inverness Drive

Planning a Loch Lomond Day Trip from Glasgow & Edinburgh

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

I am in the beginning plans of my retirement trip! It will be myself, husband and two daughters {31 and 34 years old}. We are in Florida, USA. We plan on renting a car in London, then going to Ireland for Xmas, then to Scotland for the last week in December 2024 – Jan 3rd or 4th 2025. I am thinking we will stay around Loch Lomond for New Years, then go to Isle of Skye directly after. {I looked at New Years in Skye, but prices were so high}. We like to hike, and we like to do a combination of eating out and cooking our own meals. I know it will be cold, especially for Floridians. Any recommendations for things to do in the winter in these areas will be appreciated.

Hi Kathy – sounds like you’re planning a wonderful trip! It will be cold, but also realise that it gets dark very early in Scotland in the winter – just something to be aware of!

Stumbled on this site when searching for cost of food in Scotland. Wife and I are planning late Aug trip from FL; 9 days/10 nights. Both of us in 60s and usually travel to have fun but not break the bank. Plan is to rent a car, drive east coast, then drive to Oban and end in Glascow. Got a late start on booking everything (June) and will pay the price for lodging. I checked aBNB, VRBO and ultimately went direct to hotel/b&b website. Still think prices were a bit high with limited selection. Price of rental car is out of sight; almost as much as the air. My budget looks like this; Air- 2100 (Orlando to Glascow and return) No premium seats Lodging- 1700 Glascow/Edin the highest. Stonehaven/Oban lowest Food- 100USD per day (we don’t drink alcohol) Car/gas- 1100 (and we complain about $3.50 p gal. Can’t wait for $7) Misc- 800 (taxis, sidetrips, extras)

Thank you for all the great information!

Great article! I’m in the planning stages of a 12 day trip to Scotland in Sept 2024. I will be doing this by public transit only via rail mostly (cross fingers that there isn’t a strike). I will be starting in Glasgow and ending in Edinburgh. I’m looking a budget-friendly accommodations…not hostels. What do think a good budget for 12 days would be?

I enjoyed reminiscing!

Someone recommended displaying a learner’s card, which can be picked up at petrol stations, in your car window, letting others know to be patient. Yes, we were learning some new things and wish we’d heeded that advice.

Great article! We did a three week road trip in Scotland several years ago. We’re no longer into back packing and camping as we were fifty years ago but aren’t luxury travelers.

Most post offices in the UK are also money exchanges. They have the best exchange rates possible and charge no fees. Many are tucked away in retail shops.

I found b&b’s on the various booking sites then googled them to contact them directly. These are small businesses that appreciate not having to pay the commission.

We loved the homey atmosphere and opportunity to meet so many interesting people by staying in b&b’s. All of our hosts were super nice. Often we were the only Americans in the breakfast room.

A full Scottish breakfast is very filling. (Like an English breakfast but often with the addition of haggis.) Airbnb’s also appear plentiful.

Grocery stores help the budget in two ways. Like anywhere, it’s cheaper than dining out plus there’s no tax on groceries while there is on restaurant meals.

M&S (aka Marks & Spencer) is a big department store plus supermarket chain with a nice selection of salads and sandwiches. They also have convenience stores including at the Edinburgh airport train station.

Otherwise we mostly dined in pubs where we were never disappointed.

We stayed outside Edinburgh and took a commuter train or bus into the city, and what a wonderful city it is! Still The hop on hop off bus is an excellent option there. (Still walked up to 10 miles a day.)

There are three different bus companies…each a different color so easy to identify. They have slightly different routes so it’s best to pick the one that hits any peripheral sites you might want to see.

Car hire was necessary for our visits to The Highlands and The Scottish Borders. Automatics were actually double the price of standard shifts in 2017. Most people in the UK drive standards as petrol is so pricey, thus a low supply of automatics.

Prepare for rain in the Highlands! That’s the only negative thing I have to say.

Thanks for sharing your experience! 🙂

We will be doing a Scotland self drive in April covering Edinburgh, Inverness, Kirkwall and back down through Skye, Fort William ending back in Scotland. Are there some areas we should expect to more often use cash vs cards? Gas and food will be out biggest purchase considerations. Also, we are aware the weather will be a bit of potluck but am curious what we can expect as far as greenery, spring flowers and leaves on the trees. My husband is an advid photographer and would be great to know what to expect that early. Thank you!

Hi Pam, sounds like you’re planning a great trip! Generally speaking, cards are accepted virtually everywhere in Scotland so you shouldn’t have to worry much. It is probably always a good idea to have a bit of cash on you, however. Regarding greenery – April may still be a bit sparse but you may start seeing some flowers and such by the middle to end of the month 🙂

Hi Maggie, I am interested in bringing a small group (10 – 12 persons) from New York City to the Edinburgh International Festival in August. Can you point me toward a travel agent that might help with group hotel bookings? I guess due to the festival the hotels are quite expensive, and while this would not be a super budget trip, $500US a night just for a hotel near the festival is the least expensive I have found so far. I thought perhaps a local travel agent can find package deals for us at hotels, restaurants, sightseeing, private van service and maybe even a local guide. Do you have an agent you can recommend?

Hi Vernon, we don’t work with any travel agents so I can’t help you in that regard. I hope you’re able to find a solution for your trip!

That was a wonderful article. After Covid, I have seen some changes in booking for Museums and other heritage sites. If you could share some insights on the current status in Scotland after covid, it would be great.

Also I am planning to go during the 3rd week of December. I wish to make use of my unused holidays before the end of the year. In this cold weather, does it makes sense to plan a 4 day trip to Scotland.

Would greatly appreciate your advice.

Thanks in advance

Hi Sri, things are changing all the time in Scotland so I would make sure to check all of the relevant government websites in order to stay on top of whatever restrictions may be in place. As for the weather, just make sure to pack accordingly and you should be fine! Hope you’re able to have a great trip 🙂

We have been planning a trip to Scotland for almost 2 years now. We are set to travel April 2021. My fear is that with the new strains, most sites will be closed. We are up in the air about postponing our trip, but I know how disappointed I will be, if I travel all that way to find museums, battlefield, and castles closed. What do you think?

Hi Yvonne, thanks for your comment! Right now, it can be tricky to know what the world will be like in April. I think it’s best to keep an eye on the situation, the restrictions that are currently in place and government advice closer to the date and see if you need to postpone then. With the current state of things, it does seem as if travel in April is unlikely. Hope you’re able to safely get to Scotland soon!

Wow that is fantastic information! My plan is rent a car- do you need international drivers license? We are staying two weeks. I thought perhaps a week in Inverness and travel the upper half of Scotland and the second week in Edinburgh to travel bottom half. My big goal is to go to Island of Barra, my ancestors are from there. Thank you for any input. My goal is September 2022 if its safe for travels by then. I have an itinerary started, marking a map so I can calculate distances. Thanks so much

Thanks for your comment, Karena! You shouldn’t need an international driver’s permit but I would always make sure to check with your car hire company just to make sure. Sounds like you’re planning quite the trip – hope you have a wonderful time!

Any thoughts on renting a motor home and traveling for three weeks or so in England and Scotland? Found some interesting rentals at about 125 Sterling/night. Thinking of fall 2020/spring 2021 if this Covid mess clears up. Scotland sounds cheaper then here in Hawai’i.

Hi Steven, I think that renting a motorhome is a great way to see England and Scotland! Travelling around Scotland is definitely a bit more affordable than Hawaii, but I think you’ll find the weather isn’t quite so nice 🙂 Hope you’re able to do the trip in the near future!

Hello, thanks for the great article. Any thoughts on the idea of renting a caravan for my trip? I am tossed between doing that or just renting a car and staying at b&b’s. I like the idea of wild camping but can’t do a tent due to chronic illness. 5thanks for any advice. Suzanne

Hi Suzanne, happy you found the article helpful! I think renting a caravan for your trip is an excellent idea! I haven’t done this myself, but there are lots of companies out there where you can find a decent price for that, and you still get the benefit of being out in nature without having to “rough it” while wild camping in a tent. Hope you’re able to have a great trip!

Hi, Maggie. My partner and I are travelling to Scotland for approximately 17 days. We will be renting a car and driving from Salisbury. We have places to stay in Edinburgh and Glasglow, however, a majority of our travels will take us to the Isle of Skye and around Inverness. I am unsure how much money we should budget for our trip and whether these regions are more or less expensive than bigger city centres?

I greatly appreciate your insight!

Thank you kindly, Sasha

Hi Sasha, prices, for the most part, will remain consistent in places like Inverness and Skye, however, you might find things to be slightly more expensive in Edinburgh and Glasgow. The above budget, however, is around what you should expect to pay for things in Scotland.

Hi! I am thinking of traveling solo to Scotland for about 1 to 1.5 weeks around the end of September and not including airfare, I was thinking that $1500.00 to $2000.00 would be sufficient. What are your thoughts on this budget and also do you think this is a good time of year to visit?? Thank you in advance!!!

Hi Stacia, that should be a more than adequate amount of money to visit Scotland for a week. September is a great time to visit — not too cold yet, but the tourist crowds won’t be as big as in the summer months yet. Hope you have a great trip!

Thank’s a lot for an interesting article! I am actually planning my 3 weeks trip around Scotland in May 2020. I am so excited about it! Happy New Year and safe travels!

Thanks for your comment, Kaja! Glad you found this article helpful and hope that you have a great trip 🙂

Hi, we are looking into a trip to Scotland to Edinburgh for the Military Tattoo in August 2022, our wish is to bring along our 4 adult children and two grandchildren, ages then will he 16 and 13…..looking at rentals thru homeaway for a week, what is your opinion of what our budget should be, will be needing transportation as well.

Hi Colleen, I’m not sure about your travel style or priorities on this trip, however, the prices outlined in this article are a good starting point to understand how much things cost in Scotland. Sometimes it’s easiest just to set a budget before you start planning and then work around that.

Hi looking at traveling to Scotland in 2020 and we were going to camper van or motor home around for 3 weeks.I thought that you could only free camp in Scotland in a tent.Travelling with a motor home or camper van you had to stay at a caravan park, is this correct.

Hey Michelle, as I have only ever wild camped in a tent and not in a campervan/motorhome, I’m not well-versed in the nuances of Scotland’s policies. However, if you want to have more concrete information, this is a good guide to set you straight: https://wildaboutscotland.com/2014/11/30/wild-camping-in-scotland-camper-vans-and-motorhomes/ Hope you have a great trip!

Hi Thank yo so much for your great information, I have been looking at prices of accomodations and my friend does not want shared bathrooms in any of the bookings which leaves us with more expensive options. I have compared the prices of hiring a campervan and it is looking like it might turn out cheaper. We are going in November so wild camping is a bit out of question….any thoughts?

Thanx a bunch.

Thanks for your comment! Yes, accommodation can get a bit more expensive in Scotland if don’t want to share a bathroom! I think hiring a campervan could be a good option — you can still pull over almost anywhere for the night and it won’t be nearly as chilly as staying in a tent. Hope you have a great trip 🙂

Thanks for the info. We are a family of 6 heading over for 5 weeks next year in May for a family reunion. (1 of those week will be split between Paris and London). Plan is to hire a motorhome and travel for the 4 weeks but I have read free camping does not apply to vehicle based accomodation. Do you have an idea of how difficult it is to find places to pull off to the side of the road? It is very easy here in Australia. Can you also please give me an idea about travel distance and time over there as I am still trying to wrap my head around travel times. For example, the whole of Scotland fits into half of the Sate of Victorian in Australia so we are used to travelling long distances to go places but I believe the travel time is quitr different over there. I am trying to figure out if we will have time to go from London to Cotswolds, St Ives and Tintagel amd Bath through to Lakes District and then travel Scotland roughly a clockwise visiting Galston, Edinburgh, Falkirk, Stirling, Loch Lamond, Glencoe, Glenfinnan, Isle Of Skye Applecross (going over thr Balach na Baa) up to the Orkenys and coming down to inverness to spend a week or so around Kingussie visiting the Park and various family history locations for a reunion and then a straight drive to London to fly home. It seems quite doable on a map but physically I am not so sure. Cheers!

Thanks for your comment! As I only have firsthand experience of wild camping in a tent in Scotland, I’m not so well-versed about what the rules are regarding a motorhome. That being said, I don’t think you should have any trouble finding a place to park for the night — whether that be on the side of a country road or at a caravan campsite. Camping (whether it be in a motorhome or in a tent) is super popular in Scotland and facilities are readily available.

As for driving times, I think that what you have planned is doable in 4 weeks, however, it will be very rushed and probably exhausting. I would choose to either spend time in Cornwall or in Scotland. It is easier to camp in Scotland, in our experience. Also, things do take longer than you might anticipate, especially the more rural you get. Some of the roads are winding and VERY narrow and you can go much over about 50 kph. But if you’re used to long drives anyway, it shouldn’t be a big problem. Google maps usually have pretty accurate time estimates in my experience.

I hope this helps and you and your family have a great trip!

I’m a little late in responding but for others who might wonder, I used the web site Rome2rio.com. It always took us longer as we drove a slow as we acclimated to the narrower roads. This was more difficult for me than driving on the left which was quite easy.

Generally, pulling off the side of the road is more difficult than in the US as they typically don’t have shoulders. However, there are such places for viewing some of the great natural scenery.

I did YouTube searches “driving from x to y” and found videos where people recorded their trips. This helped orient me.

Hi Maggie. Im from the Philippines and plans to have our honeymoon in Scotland. We plan to go first in Glasgow and travel to Inverness. What is the easiest way to travel there aside from plane?

Hi Danah, you can easily get to Inverness from Glasgow via train or coach (direct) if you plan on relying on public transport. The journeys should generally take around 3-4 hours. Hope you have an amazing honeymoon!

I actually went on a ten day trip to Scotland this past summer and loved it! We stayed in Castles so those accommodations fell into the upper end of cost but were well worth it (£200-£300). One thing that you didn’t mention are the taxes. There was a 20% tax on rooms! That was one thing that really blew up the budget. I find that those sorts of things are the biggest “hidden costs” when traveling. Another detail for many travelers is the ability to get some tax money back on goods purchased (retail items only). I don’t believe this applies to all countries but the US has a form to fill out in the airport. Just make sure to save your receipts! Great article-loves my visit and will definitely take some of your advice next time I go!

Hi Amy, thanks for your comment and glad you had a great time in Scotland! I’m surprised that the VAT was hidden in your accommodation costs…I’ve been under the impression that it was illegal not to include all taxes in the advertised price. Great tip on saving receipts for the refund, though! It was always something that I reminded family/friends from the USA and Australia to remember to do when they visited us in the UK. I believe the refund applies to all non-EU nationalities, but I could very well be wrong.

Hello Maggie,

Thanks so much for sharing your wisdom, regarding budgeting in Scotland. We are heading there for 11 days in May and will be staying in Perthshire and Glasgow. I am not as familiar with Perthshire (we will also be heading to Edinburgh for a night as well), but wondering what you would recommend seeing/doing in the Perthshire area, or in northern Scotland, as we have rented a car. We are open to any and all recommendations.

Also, my boyfriend and I have already paid for our accommodations and flights. What would be a good daily budget to try to stick to (probably mid-range). We will also have gas/car insurance to consider.

Also, if you have any suggestions about what to do in Glasgow, please share!

Thanks so much,

Thanks for your comment, Laura. Unfortunately, I am not too familiar with Perthshire either so I don’t have any personal recommendations for you there — sorry! However, if you have a car, it can be worth heading to the Cairngorms National Park or even checking out some of the attractions around Inverness as well. You could also visit St Andrew’s and Dundee if that interests you.

If you’ve already paid for accommodation and you’re on a mid-range budget, I would plan to spend between £25-50 per day, factoring in car hire prices. Car insurance shouldn’t be a big burden financially if you take out a portion of it with a third-party provider (we have a link in our resources page for the company we recommend).

Hope this helps!

Hi Maggie, Thanks for the info, it was very helpful. My Hubby and I are going to Glasgow in May for a week and then on to London for 5 days. We are from Canada and found that with such a big difference in Pound to Cdn Dollar, we paid for our hotels and airfare here to avoid the exchange which saved a lot. We also paid for the Hop on/Hop off pass for 3 days in London as well. Thanks again 🙂

Thanks for your comment, Bonnie. Glad you found this article helpful!

Hi Maggie I am planning a trip for my husband and I in August, and have just seen that the Military Tattoo will be on – a definite must-see… Would you recommend using a campervan or motorhome to travel around in, rather than hiring a car and hotels? I am planning to spend about 5-6 days in Scotland.

Thanks for your comment, Cathy! A campervan is definitely an excellent way to travel around Scotland frugally and it would be pretty easy to manage, as well, especially since you don’t need to pay for a campsite in most cases 🙂

I am hoping to be in Scotland for two weeks next year backpacking around the country as much as I can. How much would I need to save for backpacking, and to enjoy all of its splendors? It’s been a dream of mine to travel scotland and to view the beautiful castles!

Hi Vanessa, if you plan on backpacking and sticking to a very tight budget when you’re in Scotland, I would recommend planning for a daily budget of around £60 per day. This is just for your daily costs in Scotland and doesn’t include things like flights. Hope this helps 🙂

Hi , I will be traveling to Edinburgh and Glasgow for two days each so can u please tell me about the total pound Sterlings will be needed for two persons. Excluding accomodation

Thanks for your comment, Suruchi. Unfortunately, I don’t really know your travel style or budget, so I am unable to give you an accurate assessment as to how much your trip will cost. I’ve outlined the average costs in the article above, but if you can provide me with some more details so I can help you further, please don’t hesitate to contact me 🙂 Cheers!

Hi my boyfriend and I would like to fly from the US to Scotland. Unfortunately we only have 4 days to spend there. How much would the average cost be and what would be the best town to stay in and explore. I’m interested in Inverness( big Outlander fan) lol. And suggestions and prices are appreciated.

Hi Tasha, thanks for your comment! It´s kind of difficult for me to say how much it would cost to spend 4 days in Scotland seeing as I am not sure what kind of budget you have available to you, however, if you are trying to cut costs I would say it is definitely possible to do it for around £300-400 per person (not including flights). This would include staying in budget accommodation (like a private room on Airbnb) but would also allow you to eat most meals out. As for where to stay, if you’re into Outlander and are interested in seeing the sites in the Highlands, I would recommend basing yourself in Inverness and hiring a car for the time you’re there. That will give you more flexibility to see some things in the surrounding area (like Loch Ness and Culloden) without having to spend the cash on an organised day tour. Otherwise, Edinburgh is a fantastic option with plenty to occupy yourself with for 4 days. Hope this helps!

I’m in the beginning stages of planning a 14 day trip to Scotland for 3 adults. It’s not being planned until June 2021 so I have time, but I’d like to begin a budget for us. We would be renting a car and possibly eating out most of the time. Camping may not be an option. Reasonably, with some mid-range accommodations figured in, and a few touristy things planned, would $10,000 US be enough?

Thanks for your comment, Karly! Hope that your trip planning goes well 🙂 Based on my experience, I think that $10,000 for 3 people should be more than enough to cover a mid-range budget in Scotland

I am originally from the Glasgow area. Lived in US for over 36 years. In the last 6 years I’ve been back a few times for a month at a time. Car rental company I recommend highly, Arnold Clark. No hidden charges, easy pick up/ drop off and great car selection. ( no I don’t get anything for this endorsement, just lesson learned) Sykes Cottages is a good company if you are looking to rent by the week. Hope you enjoy your trip, I’m headed there in April.

That’s an interesting point about wild camping! A great budget option so I would love to try it. I’m guessing I should definitely aim to travel during the warmer months though 🙂 Thanks so much for sharing!

Wild camping can significantly cut down on accommodation costs in Scotland! It is definitely better to do it in the summer months though 🙂

Do you have recommendations for wild camping where its legal and safe.

Hello. We would like to travel to Scotland by our own car. Do you, guys, know if there is s fee when crossing the border to Scotland? I remember that when we went to Wales from Swindon we had to pay £5 or £10.

I honestly have no idea if there is a fee to drive from England to Scotland, but my gut tells me there isn’t. What you might find is there may be a toll road. When we’ve driven from England to Wales we never had to pay a fee to enter Wales, however, there was a toll for the bridge. I’m sorry that I can’t be more helpful!

Just came back from Scotland and England. There were no fees tool roads etc that we experienced.

Thanks for sharing, Bonnie!

Hello Maggie, A very informative article, thank you. Do you think, using all the tips provided, a month in Scotland could range from 6,000. to 8,000 US dollers? Not including air fare. Thanks Megan Allen

Hi Megan…is your budget for just one person? If it is, I think that $6,000-8,000 is going to be more than enough for one month in Scotland. I recommend planning on spending around £55 ($70USD) per day and with that budget, you will be spending over $200 per day. While it is certainly possible to spend this kind of money in Scotland, it is altogether not necessary.

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Cost of a Trip to Scotland & the Cheapest Time to Visit Scotland

The average price of a 7-day trip to Scotland is $1,429 for a solo traveler, $2,566 for a couple, and $4,811 for a family of 4 . Scotland hotels range from $65 to $295 per night with an average of $114, while most vacation rentals will cost $220 to $440 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Mildura Airport ( MQL ) are between $492 and $1,020 per person for economy flights and $1,544 to $3,201 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $42 to $81 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Scotland

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to MQL and stay in a Scotland hotel:

• February 5th to March 11th
• April 9th to July 15th (except the weeks of April 23rd, April 30th, May 21st and June 25th)
• August 6th to September 9th
• October 22nd to December 2nd

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Scotland is usually mid August .

Average Scotland Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Scotland for a week is $1,116-$2,232 ($159-$319 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $42 to $81 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $330 to $867 for economy

Lodging : $82 to $109 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $109 to $133 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Scotland for a week is $2,064-$3,972 ($295-$567 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $84 to $162 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $660 to $1,734 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Scotland for a week is $3,480-$7,044 ($497-$1,006 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $168 to $324 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,320 to $3,468 for economy

Lodging : $164 to $218 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $164 to $200 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Scotland

How cheap can you make a vacation to Scotland? The cheapest trip to Scotland is about $89 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $20 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $58.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Scotland for a week is $625-$1,600 ($89-$229 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $25 to $49 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $58 to $65 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $20 to $40 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Scotland for a week is $1,130-$2,810 ($161-$401 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $50 to $98 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Scotland for a week is $2,188-$5,620 ($313-$803 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $100 to $196 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $116 to $130 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $28 to $64 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to Scotland cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Scotland Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Scotland.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Scotland for a week is $2,246-$8,127 ($321-$1,161 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $92 to $146 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $726 to $2,089 for first class

Lodging : $146 to $295 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $440 to $836 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Scotland for a week is $3,616-$11,238 ($517-$1,605 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $184 to $292 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,452 to $4,178 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Scotland for a week is $7,232-$19,968 ($1,033-$2,853 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $368 to $584 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,904 to $8,356 for first class

Lodging : $292 to $590 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $704 to $1,254 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Scotland Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Scotland is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Scotland due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Scotland Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Scotland hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Scotland.

Flight Costs to Scotland

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,020 average in late December to a low of $492 in mid August. Median flight price is $293. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Scotland our data includes 4 originating airports, and 11 airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to Scotland from an airport like San Francisco International ( SFO ) in San Francisco, CA (the United States) for an average $1,681 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Melbourne International ( MEL ) in Melbourne (Australia) at an average of just $167.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Scotland, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $528, so you can easily save about 107% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Scotland can easily cost $370 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $25 per person. Private tours can cost $736 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

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Scotland Trip Cost: Flights, Food & Hotel Pricing

Plan your Scotland trip with ease! Get the latest costs for flights, food, & accommodation, and tips for budget travel to enjoy the beauty of Scotland.

Scotland is the land of magical castles, beautiful beaches, lush rolling hills, and majestic mountains. It is home to 790 islands and the Eas a' Chula Aluinn waterfall, three times the height of Niagara falls. With beautiful sights and fascinating activities offered on a platter, it's normal to want to visit Scotland. But what will a typical visit cost?

It will cost you an average of $1606 to go on a 7-day trip to Scotland. The average cost of a round-trip from North America to Scotland is $630, and the average daily expense is $139. This average daily expense covers $57 for accommodation, $30 for transportation, $31 for meals, and $21 for attractions and activities.

Although travel costs to Scotland usually fluctuate, it is still an affordable destination that can be covered on a budget. However, before you pack your bag for a Scotland trip, you'll need to create a detailed budget. Here's a detailed look into everything that should go into your budget. 

How Much Money Should You Take On A Trip To Scotland

Scotland is generally an affordable location to stay in compared to the rest of the United Kingdom, and you don't have to break the bank. You can travel to Scotland with a budget of $1606 and still enjoy all the beautiful things that Scotland offers tourists .

Flight tickets cost $630, which will significantly reduce if you travel during the shoulder season (spring). You will spend an average of $31 daily for meals or less if you consider cooking your meals.

With a few lifestyle changes, you can keep accommodation, feeding, and transportation at a reasonable price. Mid-range hotels cost $57 per night and are clean with all the necessary amenities. However, public transit is pricey, and a single ticket costs up to $20.

Scotland is a beautiful city, and tourists are mostly drawn to the fact that most sightseeing activities are mainly free. However, you can budget $21 for tickets to museums, day tours, and other popular activities.

There's no limit to your budget if you are a luxury traveler that leans toward an expensive lifestyle. First-class flight tickets to Scotland can go as high as $2000, and eating out costs $150. The average 4 to 5-star hotel costs $290 per night, and you can rent an entire house for $400 per day.

Can You Travel To Scotland On A Tight Budget?

Yes, you can travel to Scotland on a budget. Scotland is already a relatively affordable location, so you just need a few tweaks here and there to pull down your travel costs. 

Finding decent flight fares from North America to Scotland, especially to smaller airports, is possible. Scotland is also a popular camping destination, so you'll find tons of cheaper accommodation alternatives spread around the city. 

The average amount of money you can budget for a 7-day trip on a tight budget is $800-$900. Spring is shoulder season in Scotland, and average flight fares can get to as low as $300 round-tri p. It would be best if you also considered flying to smaller airports with budget airlines rather than to major international airports.

With this budget, your average daily spend will come down to $89. You can consider wild camping for free or pay $8-$10 for one of the several campsites scattered around the country. The average cost of a hostel is $20-$40 per night or $40-$60 per night for a mid-range hotel.

Meals can be pricey, but cooking your meals will significantly reduce your food budget. You can get a large filling portion of fish and chips for $5 or spend $10 daily on groceries to make your meals.

Public transportation is costly in Scotland, and a single ticket rarely goes below $20. Car rental is the better alternative; it costs $30 per day, and $20 worth of fuel can last up to two days. You can explore the country on your own without paying for activities.

Basic Expenses On A Trip To Scotland

Scotland may not be the cheapest country to visit, but it is affordable compared to most other popular destinations in the UK. Here's a detailed breakdown of each cost to help you plan your budget accurately.

1. Flight Tickets

Flight tickets take a significant part of your travel budget. The average flight from North America to Scotland is $630, depending on the season. 

Costs can vary for travelers coming from other parts of the world. So we recommend contacting a local airline beforehand to know what your flight fare will cost you. 

Spring is the shoulder season, and flight tickets are usually reasonable. In addition, several airlines also offer seasonal flights at affordable rates . Edinburgh is usually the destination airport, but Glasgow airport offers the best deals on flight tickets.

2. Accommodation

Like most destinations, accommodation will take the most significant chunk of your budget. However, Scotland offers a wide range of accommodation styles to fit every budget. You can either go for a hostel, Scottish B&Bs, Mid-range to luxury hotels, and Vacation rentals.

Larger cities, such as Edinburg, and Glasgow, have varieties of hotels, so there's a better probability of finding a hotel that suits your budget. The average dorm bed in a hostel costs $20 per night.

Scottish B&Bs are a popular choice for most travelers and cost an average of $70-$100 per night. They are cozy and warm with friendly owners and scattered throughout the countryside. 

The average Mid-range hotel in Scotland costs $57 per night. It is important to remember that this price also depends on the city you are visiting. Mid-range hotels can cost $125 in bigger cities or less in small towns .

A 4 to 5-star hotel costs an average of $180 per day. Or you can go for a unique experience at Scottish castle hotels starting from $250 per night.

Depending on your location, you can get a private room at $50-$70 per night. Remember that Scotland is not densely populated and finding Airbnb outside the city can be challenging.

3. Transportation

Car rentals are a popular means of transportation in Scotland. At an average cost of $30 per day, it guarantees you the freedom to soak in the beautiful landscape at your pace. However, the roads are small and winding, especially with the crazy weather, so you may need a while to get used to them. 

Additionally, you will have to factor in the cost of fuel and parking. $20 fuel can often last up to two days, although that can significantly depend on the distance you'll cover. Finally, a manual transmission is often cheaper than an automatic and usually has weekly discounts .

Buses and trains are another great way of moving around. They are also relatively popular and cover most major Scotland cities. However, they can be expensive and do not allow for as much flexibility as rented cars. The average bus ticket is $20, and you will also have to walk around several locations in the city.

Scotrail connects major towns and cities; an average ticket costs $30. The train offers a great way to enjoy a scenic environment while traveling through Scotland and England. ScotRail has a tourist rail pass with unlimited travel, and the most popular is the 4-day pass for $149.

Ferries are also available to take you to any of the Islands. The cost depends on the location you are traveling to and if you are coming along with a vehicle. However, the average price of a ferry ride is $21.30.

4. Food & Drinks

Although not a food hotspot like Italy or France, dining in Scotland is still a delightful experience. The city's food supply is mostly controlled by small restaurants and pubs, which makes the prices reasonable.

Breakfast is usually the cheapest meal and costs an average of $10-$15. However, most guesthouses, hotels, and B&Bs always include a standard breakfast in their service. Scottish breakfast is similar to English and includes eggs, salmon, toast, baked beans, tomatoes, and sausage.

Lunch and dinner usually cost between $10-$20 per meal, and a pint of beer is $4. However, you can grab a sandwich from the grocery store for lunch and make your dinner for less. A fine dining experience is usually more expensive at an average cost of $60-$120 .

5. Attractions & Activities

The "right to roam" in Scotland is a free pass for visitors to access and explore the country's beauty. Scotland is a natural beauty where you can explore everything independently. For example, you can go hiking, visit the beach, walk around quaint towns, and explore forgotten castles and ruins.

However, you can still enjoy paid activities and tours that cost between $10-$100. These activities include bike tours, kayaking, distillery tours, and cultural activities . The cost can go up if you want a tour guide and executive treatment in most of the locations.

6. Travel Insurance And Miscellaneous Purchases

It is always advisable to get travel insurance when visiting another country. This insurance protects you against financial mishaps such as missed flights, medical emergencies and stolen luggage. Check the different quotes of each agency and choose the one that covers everything.

Scotland is home to high-quality souvenirs you should include in your budget. Set aside about $100 to buy gifts such as cashmere blankets, scarves, tartan and plaid prints. You should also consider other miscellaneous spending, such as tips .

Tips On How To Save Money While Traveling To Scotland

Whether you are backpacking on a budget or traveling in luxury, a good deal is always appreciated. Learning how to cut costs can help you enjoy your Scotland vacation better. Below are several tips to save money while on your trip to Scotland.

1. Travel Off-Peak Season

All destinations have seasons in which flight fares and accommodation skyrocket. Scotland is a year-round destination; however, the summer months (June to August) are peak seasons, and airfares skyrocket during this time.

November to mid-December and January to March are shoulder seasons . During this period, the crowd reduces, and you will get better deals on flights and accommodation.

2. Take A Connector Train

Scotland is a part of the United Kingdom, just like England. It is usually cheaper to fly to London before going to Scotland.  London is a major travel destination, and cheaper round rates and seat sales are readily available.

Consider flying to London and taking a shorter flight with a budget airline such as Ryanair. Or you can choose to use the train from London to Edinburgh .

3. Book In Advance

It is common knowledge that booking your flight and accommodation in advance saves you money. Some travelers found that booking even five weeks earlier significantly reduces the cost of these Items.

Many airlines offer early bird tickets with discounts resulting in cheaper flights and fees. Also booking your accommodation in advance allows you to choose the best rooms with decent deals .

Most importantly, booking your train tickets in advance saves you a great deal. Trains in Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom are expensive. You will seldom find a train ticket for less than $20 if you buy it on the same day.

4. Prepare Your Meals

The most budget-friendly food option is preparing your own meals. Most travelers have discovered that this option saves them a lot of money.

Scotland has budget supermarkets such as Lidl or Aldi, where groceries are affordable. Since most hostels, Airbnb, and vacation rentals have cooking facilities, you can always prepare your meals.

On some days, cooking might be the last thing on your mind. In that case, most high-end restaurants in Scotland usually offer discounted lunch specials . You can get 2-3 course meals at only $10-$15, compared to the same meal costing $25-$35 at dinner.

5. Travel In Groups

A significant benefit of traveling in groups is the money you get to save. Splitting the bills for accommodation, transportation, and food among yourselves saves a great deal.

Most times, large groups often receive discounts on attractions and tours. In addition, they also get priority service due to headcount .

Tobi Miles is a University of Florida graduate turned globe-trotting culinary explorer and digital nomad expert. As the founder of "Bytes & Bites," he combines his passion for international cuisine with practical advice on remote work, inspiring others to experience the world through food and cultural immersion. With 32 countries under his belt and a knack for uncovering hidden culinary gems, Tobi is redefining the intersection of work, travel, and gastronomy for a new generation of adventurers.

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How Much Does it Cost to Visit Scotland?

‘How much does it cost to go to Scotland?’. That’s a good question for any potential visitor to this country, especially in these times of rising costs and declining incomes. In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the cost of a visit to Scotland, from flights to hotels and food to tourist attractions, along with a few handy tips that will hopefully save you money when you get here.

The Cost of Flying to Scotland

Thanks to the falling pound it’s possible to get a flight to the UK today that would have been significantly more expensive a couple of years ago, especially if you choose to book off-season from October to May. These months might be chillier than the summer but you can get a real bargain if you do a little internet research and you’ll frequently find winter airfares coming in at half the price of the same journey in the summer.

You’ll often find cheaper flights to Glasgow airport than Edinburgh (which I believe is due to the fact Edinburgh is more of a tourist city than its west-coast cousin), and many international visitors do not realize the two cities are only an hour apart by rail or road.

You could save even more money by flying into London (London Heathrow is an international airport hub), but the problem is that not only is it more of a trek (expect a 4-5 hour train ride between London and Edinburgh), but the cost of the journey between the cities will seriously eat into your budget.

To give you an idea of Britain’s ferociously expensive trains, a one-way ticket for one adult from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh Waverley is around £70 as of January 2024, which goes up to £110 if you want a bit of comfort in first class. Book the same ticket for August August 1st, and the price rockets to £85 per adult for standard class and (gulp) £220 for first class.

These are the reasons why everyone in Britain complains about the rail network. Plus, they’re usually late. Still, at least the view out the window is nice. But getting back to flights, take a look at the examples below for average return airfare prices for one adult to Scotland in winter (1st December). Data is from Skyscanner January 2024.

There isn’t much of a price difference between Scotland’s two biggest airports, Edinburgh and Glasgow, except for the flight from New York, which has a £100+ difference. I think the moral of the story here is to check two or three different airports before you book your flights – that £100+ would pay for a day of accommodation, food, and attraction tickets for most small families.

Now let’s have a look at the same journeys in the summer (1st August). Data is from Skyscanner January 2024.

This time there isn’t much of a difference between the airports but did you notice the price increase, especially on long-haul flights? The price of flights from China and Japan has nearly doubled which means summer visitors from those destinations will be looking at paying more for flights for one person than most Brits spend on an entire family holiday. Are you really sure a summer visit to Scotland will be twice as good as a winter one?

With this thought in mind, I’ve written a complete guide about why visiting Scotland in January might be the best option for international travellers. Take a look at it here and see if it makes you change your mind. I’ve also created a guide about Scotland’s airports that will help you plan your journey.

Accommodation Costs in Scotland

So now you’ve arrived in Scotland you’ll want to rest in your hotel – and this is where you’ll face the biggest bills. Ok, that’s not necessarily true if you’re going to head straight to the Highlands and spend a week or two wild camping because the only expense you’ll have is your tent (and anti-midge spray ), but for the majority of people visiting Scotland, an extended stay means hotels and B&Bs.

If you do a quick internet search you’ll soon find prices vary wildly at different times of the year and especially so in big cities like Edinburgh which sees hotel room costs double in summer. This is made even worse when there’s a big event going on like the Edinburgh Fringe arts festival and I’ve seen some hotels triple the cost of a room in the city centre during August.

As a resident of Scotland, I have to say this is something that really winds me up, but I guess it comes with the territory of living in a country that’s a tourist hotspot. My suggestion to you if you want to stay in Edinburgh in August is to book a hotel near one of the train lines which runs into the city instead of trying to find a room in the city centre.

Scotland’s trains are pretty good for short distances, and not only are they frequent, but the prices are quite reasonable. I’ll give you an idea of Edinburgh hotel prices in August for a range of quality levels, along with a few out-of-town options. This information is from Travel Supermarket , January 2024.

Not much of a difference at the budget end but it’s a different story for the upper and mid-range hotels. And now the same hotels in winter (January). Note that you’ll be more limited in the type of hotel when you go out of town as you’ll have to take whatever’s near the train line. You could book a taxi but frequent short taxi rides will outweigh the savings of booking an out-of-town hotel.

That’s quite a saving but note that these are the prices for rooms booked several months in advance. If you don’t book early you’ll find the prices increase drastically the nearer you get to your preferred dates.

But what about heading to the Highlands and the Isle of Skye? Well, it depends on where you want to go. I spent a lovely week in Skye last year but I made sure I did my research before booking accommodation and I was really shocked at the prices. Unfortunately, Skye has become a victim of its own success and because there are so many tourists the hotel operators charge pretty much whatever they like.

The main town of Portree has some very nice-looking hotels but their rooms go for crazy money in the summer so expect to pay up to £300 per room per night if you go for the upper range and £150 for a mid-range with breakfast. And that’s for small rooms that accommodate two people only.

A much better idea is to book an entire house on Airbnb well in advance as you can get an absolute bargain if you search around and are prepared to stay a little outside the main tourist areas. I chose a lovely three-bedroom house overlooking Portree that had a large dining room, kitchen and garden for just £120 per night and I couldn’t have been happier with it. Not only did it have stunning views across Loch Portree but the drive from the door to the town centre was less than ten minutes. Take that, overpriced hotels!

Getting back to the Highlands, you’re going to struggle to find a hotel in most of the wee villages that haven’t already been sold out months in advance if you travel in summer, but winter is a different story and you can often get rooms on the day of arrival.

However, my recommended type of accommodation in the Highlands is the humble B&B. There are many more B&Bs in the Highlands than hotels because they’re usually converted farmhouses, and they’re almost always run by incredibly friendly people.

There’s no better way to get to know a place than by chatting to the people who live there and by booking yourself into a B&B you’re guaranteed to get all the local information about the best places to go that a stuffy hotel probably won’t tell you.

Travel Supermarket is the best resource for finding B&Bs in my opinion but if you want a more bespoke option (and a little pricier) you should take a look at the Scotlands Best B&Bs website. I’ll list a few suggestions for Highland B&Bs that are located in the best areas for exploring the surrounding landscape. These are for two-person rooms per night in mid-August – just search for the name on the Travel Supermarket website .

• The Auld Kirk – Ballater. £150
• Dunvegan B&B – Dufftown. £77
• Corrie Liath B&B – Fort Augustus. £99
• Urquhart Bay B&B – Drumnadrochit. £120
• The Birches B&B – Ullapool . £90
• Aililgean B&B – Inverness. £95

Now for a couple of Booking.com money-saving tips.

There are a couple of ways to save money on Booking.com accommodation, the first of which is to join their ‘Genius’ program. By signing up you’ll receive bonuses at different levels depending on how many reviews you leave and how many times you book, with each level giving you different rewards the next time you book online.

Expect 10% off some rooms at level one and 15% off at level two, with the added bonus that some hotels offer free breakfast for Genius level two members. Another way to save money is by booking on your phone rather than on your desktop, as you’ll sometimes get a mobile discount which can be another 10% on top of whatever you get as a Genius member.

Another surefire way to save a few quid is to save up points with selected hotels, although these schemes are usually aimed at frequent travellers like businessmen. I’ve used a few in the past but can thoroughly recommend Best Western Rewards and Marriot Rewards . Both schemes offer room upgrades, discounts and even free stays if you’ve built up enough points.

Is Travel Expensive in Scotland?

Unless you’re prepared to walk or cycle everywhere I’m afraid you’re going to rack up quite a few costs travelling around Scotland. Although the travel infrastructure is generally good it’s not particularly cheap, and visitors from overseas need to be mindful that here in the UK we pay one of the highest fuel costs in Europe in addition to the already-mentioned expensive rail fares.

Buses on the other hand are quite good value for money so if you’re looking for a cheap way to travel – albeit somewhat limited – you might consider taking a coach between cities and using local buses once you get there.

But of all the transport methods on offer I have to say hiring a car is almost always the best option as not only do you get to travel when and wherever you want, but you can pull into the roadside whenever you like (not on dual carriageways or motorways…) to admire those breathtaking views.

When hiring a car I suggest you book online before you leave home as you’ll almost always save money compared to booking on the day. If you don’t want to be stung by additional charges – expect temporary debits for insurance of up to £1,000 with budget rental companies – then stick to the big guns like Hertz , Enterprise and Sixt .

Getting back to those fuel costs, you should know that the cost of fuel has soared in the last couple of years and is currently (as of 2024 from the  RAC website ) around £1.50 per litre of petrol and around £1.60 per litre of diesel.

That means to fill up an average hatchback like a VW golf will cost you an average £70 to £80 which would give you around 500 miles of driving, so a two-week self-drive holiday covering about 1,500 miles would cost in the region of £210 in fuel costs, and that’s before you’ve paid the hire car rental and insurance.

Prices vary quite a bit between rental companies depending on which insurance package you go for and the size of the car you hire so take a look at the table below for a few examples of what you can expect to pay per day.

How Much Does It Cost to Travel to Scotland by Train?

So that’s driving out of the way, but what about the train? This is the preferred travel option for most tourists as it’s a great way to see the country without getting stuck on busy roads but of course, the downside is that it can really eat into your holiday budget.

The main rail operator in Scotland is ScotRail, so before deciding that you’re going to take the train you should pop over to the Scotrail website and check out their current prices. The ScotRail website is full of useful information and it’ll help you no end to use the train in Scotland, including how and where to get tickets and where the railway lines start and end.

As far as prices are concerned I recommend you book well in advance as tickets are usually released twelve weeks before the departure date and they slowly creep up the later you leave it. I also suggest you buy ‘Anytime’ tickets as it’ll mean you don’t have to worry about getting stung for an additional charge if you end up on the train at peak times.

You’ll occasionally get a discount on first-class tickets which are worth getting if they’re not too expensive as the extra-comfy seats include complimentary drinks and snacks, but if you can’t get a discount I wouldn’t bother as you’ll often pay twice what a standard ticket costs.

An example of the drastic price difference between standard and first-class carriages is the journey from Edinburgh to Aberdeen, which costs £44 for the cheaper ticket but ramps up to £97 (as of January 2024) if you want a bigger seat and a ham sandwich.

Here are some examples of standard single-journey anytime train ticket prices as of 2023:

One option you have for saving money that I highly recommend is to get an all-in-one travel pass which allows unlimited train travel on certain lines over a fixed number of days. You can also get passes that include coach and ferry travel if you want to explore the islands so you might like to have a look at the ScotRail website to get an idea of what’s on offer.

The current rail travel passes are:

• Spirit of Scotland Rover : Offers unlimited rail travel throughout Scotland for either four or eight days. Four days of unlimited travel over eight consecutive days cost £149 while eight days of unlimited travel over fifteen consecutive days cost £189.
• Scottish Grand Tour : Touted as one of the great rail journeys of the world, the Scottish Grand Tour is a circular route that passes through lochs, mountains, forests and countryside. Four days of unlimited rail travel is £89.
• Highland Rover : Gives you four days of unlimited travel over eight consecutive days across the Highlands for £95. Although it’s only valid for standard class you can travel at any time and you’ll get 20% off  Northlink  ferry services to Orkney and Shetland.
• Central Scotland Rover : Allows holders to take unlimited journeys between Glasgow, Edinburgh, and the surrounding area for just £55. The pass lasts for three days and is valid for standard class journeys on ScotRail trains, but unfortunately you can’t use it on the new Borders railway line.
• Rail and Sail : Getting to the north and west coast islands has never been easier thanks to ScotRail’s  Rail and Sail  which combines rail and ferry travel in one ticket. Prices vary and are dependent on the specific journey.

I’ve written a comprehensive guide on How to Tour Scotland by Train so have a read through it to discover everything you need to know about Scotland’s railways and the best train journeys to take while you’re here.

If you’d rather not listen to the clickety-clack of train tracks hour after hour you could always take the bus and Scotland has great bus services between cities and in most towns.

The two biggest inter-city bus operators are Megabus and Citylink and both offer affordable travel on frequent services that link all the major cities in the country. While the standard coaches are pretty basic and not really recommended for holiday travel, Citylink offers a ‘Gold’ service that features leather seats, onboard snacks and Wi-Fi for just a little extra money.

It’s a great service that’s cheaper than the train, takes roughly the same amount of time and has depots right in the heart of each city. The table below shows the same departure/arrival points as the train stations in the table above, but this time on Citylink buses. Note that these are for tickets booked in advance. If you purchase on the day they’ll be more expensive.

Once you’re in the city you’ll find the main bus operator in Scotland is First Bus except for Edinburgh which has the excellent Lothian Bus network. I always give a wee shout-out to Lothian Buses as they’re such a fantastic company with impeccably clean, modern, and ultra-efficient buses, and the prices are reasonable too.

Sticking with Edinburgh you’ll get a single adult ticket from the airport to the city centre for £4.50 and all-day tickets which allow unlimited travel in Edinburgh for just £4.50 per adult or £9.50 for a family.

First Bus covers much of Scotland and taking Glasgow as an example you can get an all-day adult ticket for the Greater Glasgow area for £4.70, and an all-week ticket allowing unlimited travel for £17.50. The airport bus to the city centre is £9.

Once you get out into the Highlands you’ll find a lot of competing bus companies so it wouldn’t be practical to list them all here, but to be honest I really wouldn’t advise using the bus in the Highlands as they’re so infrequent. My advice in this instance would be to use a hire car but if you’d like more information about using Scotland’s public transport network take a look at my guide ‘ How To Travel Around Scotland Without a Car ‘

The last option for transport in Scotland is taking a taxi which is a good idea if you want to get straight to your hotel after arriving at the airport but they’re very expensive if you use them day-to-day. In big cities, we have black cabs (like you see in London) which are the ‘official’ council-approved taxi services along with minicabs as well as a few Ubers in some large cities.

Personally, I’d stick with the black cabs as the prices are transparent, the drivers are vetted, and you can be certain you won’t get ripped off when the cabbie realizes you’re a tourist who’s unfamiliar with the area. They’re expensive though. Expect a 20-mile taxi ride with a black cab to cost £40 – £50.

As an Edinburgh resident, I recommend you use the company Central Taxis which has never let me down whenever I’ve booked with them.

Food Prices in Scotland

The next two sections covering food and tourist attractions are going to be a lot shorter than the previous ones because the prices vary so much it’s impossible to guess how much a visitor will spend during a holiday, although I can at least give a few examples of the most popular options.

Obviously what you spend on food will depend on the type of meals you have so if you’re happy to munch on a burger for lunch you’ll get change from a fiver. If you’d rather sit down to a 3-course meal in a nice restaurant with a glass of wine prepare to dig £30 to £40 out of your wallet. That’s per person by the way.

One option to save a bit of cash on your Scottish holiday is to make your own meals, but of course, that’s only possible if you’re staying in a rented holiday home. If that’s the case, you’ll find British supermarkets are roughly equivalent, except for Lidl and Aldi, which have significant discounts on most products.

Supermarket chains in Scotland:

• Sainsbury’s

To give you an idea of what we pay for food in UK supermarkets have a look at the everyday essentials in this table:

So that’s a basic breakfast and sandwiches for about a tenner but that’s not exactly what you want to eat every day on holiday is it? You’re bound to include a few meals and snacks while you’re out exploring so I’ll list a selection of eating-out options in yet another table:

Bizarrely, what most Scots would consider basic meals are the meals that cost the most in restaurants, so if you’re looking for a bowl of Cullen Skink or a plate of haggis, neeps, and tatties, prepare to dig deep in your pockets. If you want a more in-depth look at British fast-food prices, take a look at FastFoodPrice.co.uk which is a work in progress but has lots of menu items from the most popular fast-food outlets.

The Cost of Attractions in Scotland

I can start this section by asking ‘how long is a piece of string?’. It’s impossible to give a complete of list Scottish attractions as they vary wildly and the prices constantly change. I have a couple of suggestions for you to save a bit of money while you’re in Scotland though.

First, if you want to see the best of the great outdoors, nature reserves and a few historic houses consider getting a National Trust for Scotland membership. The trust maintains a large part of Scotland’s wild places as well as some of the country’s most significant historic attractions, and membership includes unlimited visits to all their sites so you could save big on a touring holiday.

You’ll also be supporting the maintenance and care of Scotland’s incredibly fragile wildlife and landscapes which I reckon is worth the price alone.

Join the National Trust for Scotland.

Second, get a Historic Environment Scotland membership, as they look after most of the ‘big’ attractions in Scotland, and they have a wide range of memberships to suit all ages and budgets.

If you go to Viator.com and search ‘Historic Scotland Explorer Pass’, you’ll be able to buy a special pass that allows unlimited entry to most of Scotland’s historic attractions for around £35. That works out incredibly cheap when you consider that a single visit to Edinburgh Castle is £19.50.

Choose between a 5-day or 14-day Historic Scotland Explorer Pass and enjoy free entry to 78 of Scotland’s top heritage attractions, plus you can avoid the queues at the ticket offices at Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle with your ticket.

Buy low-price tickets on Viator.

I’d say those two memberships alone will cover you for visiting tourist attractions for your holiday in Scotland as 90% of the best remaining ones are completely free to visit – which includes all the national galleries in Edinburgh and Glasgow as well as the majority of Scotland’s museums.

The other 10% of attractions vary in price massively, but you’ll find most city centre-paid attractions are quite pricey, so expect to pay around £15 for an adult ticket and around £8 for under-18 tickets, but at least entry for under-5s is usually free.

Conclusion: The Cost to Go to Scotland for a Week

Take a look at the tables below for a realistic daily budget for Scotland. Please note that these tables exclude the cost of travel to and from the country, as it will depend on where you’re coming from. Note that the accommodation price is per room, and all other prices are per person.

Luxury Holiday

Mid-range holiday, budget holiday.

• Flights – Skyscanner
• Accommodation – Travel Supermarket
• Accommodation – Scotlands Best B&Bs
• Car rental – Hertz
• Car rental – Enterprise
• Car rental – Sixt
• Train travel – ScotRail
• Coach travel – Megabus
• Coach travel – Citylink
• Bus travel – First Bus
• Edinburgh bus travel – Lothian Bus
• Historic attractions – Historic Environment Scotland
• Landscapes and historic attractions – National Trust for Scotland

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to visit scotland.

Averages for 1 week per adult in 2022, based in a city centre including food, travel and attraction tickets: Luxury holiday £2610. Mid-range holiday £1753. Budget holiday £835.

How much do attraction tickets cost in Scotland?

Prices vary wildly with top-tier attractions like Edinburgh Castle costing around £18 per adult ticket. National museums and galleries generally have no admission cost. The majority of city paid attraction ticket prices are between £7 and £15 per adult.

How much does food cost in Scotland?

Examples for eating out are: Scottish fried breakfast; pub chain, e.g., Wetherspoons, £8–£10. Ham sandwich with trimmings, pub chain, e.g., Wetherspoons, £5–£7. Fish & Chips pub chain, e.g., Wetherspoons, £7–£12.

What train travel passes are available?

All passes are available from Scotrail:

Spirit of Scotland Rover : Unlimited rail travel throughout Scotland for either four or eight days.

The Scottish Grand Tour is four days of unlimited rail travel for tourists.

Highland Rover : Gives you four days of unlimited travel over eight consecutive days across the Highlands.

Central Scotland Rover lets you take unlimited journeys between Glasgow, Edinburgh, and the surrounding area.

Rail and Sail : Combines rail and train travel to the north and west coast islands.

Related Posts

A Guide to Scotland’s Winter Weather

How Much Should You Tip in Scotland?

How to Save Money on Train Tickets in Scotland

How to Prevent Tick Bites in Scotland

A Guide to Giant Hogweed in Scotland

Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

• Destinations
• Travel advice

The ultimate Scotland trip cost guide to plan your trip on a budget

• September 11, 2023

Table of Contents

Scotland is one of the most beautiful places in the world. If you’re looking to travel to Scotland on a budget, this is the guide for you! In this Scotland trip cost article, we will share with you how much it cost us to travel through Scotland and give you an idea of how much money you will need to budget for your own trip. We’ll break down the costs by category to give detail insights. Scotland is a wonderful place to visit, and with careful planning, you can have an amazing trip without spending too much!

Trip to Scotland cost per day?

Important to know is that Scotland can be expensive to travel to but doesn’t have to be. When you know how to save money the budget that you need for Scotland is comparable to other West European countries.

For budget travelers : the average cost of a trip to Scotland per day is £60-74 / $74-86. This means you need to go camping or stay at cheap hostels or guesthouses. You prepare food mainly yourself or go to local restaurants and pubs, and you use public transport. You need to do everything yourself to keep the cost this low.

Mid-range travelers : should expect to budget of £100-150 / $123-185 per day. This will cover accommodation in better quality hotels, meals at mid-range restaurants and pubs. Big difference is that you do not have to use public transport but that you can hire a car or motorhome.

For luxury travelers : the average cost of a trip to Scotland per day is around £250 / $309. This covers accommodation in high-end hotels, meals at good restaurants, renting a car or motorhome and doing tours to discover the country.

The amounts don’t include airline tickets. Flight costs are very diverse. We always use Skyscanner and recommend it.

The overview below is based on our road trip through Scotland.

Scotland trip cost: Accommodation

When visiting Scotland, it is essential to book accommodations far in advance due to the limited availability of viable lodging options. Accommodation costs are already expensive enough, and if you’re going with a car then reservations should be made at least 6 months ahead of your trip; for travel to Isle of Skye specifically, such arrangements should be reserved up to one year in advance! The reason being that most parts of this enchanting land consist mainly of mountains and nature preserves – leaving fewer places suitable for accommodation.

Budget travelers : the average cost of a room in Scotland per night is £15-20 / $19-25. This means you need to stay in hostels and guesthouses or at campingsites.

Mid-range travelers should expect to pay around £30-60 / $38-74 per night for accommodation. You can stay in better quality hotels and AirBnBs.

Luxury travellers should budget around £100-150 / $123-185 per night for accommodation. You’ll be staying in high-end hotels, castles or luxury AirBnBs.

Scotland is similar to other Western European countries when it comes to how much you pay per accommodation. If you want to save money on your accommodations, it’s best to book ahead of time instead of waiting until closer to your travel date.

If you are looking for good hotels and hostels in Scotland, we can help you! We share our favorite places in Scotland to stay here .

Scotland trip cost: Food

Food costs in Scotland vary depending on where you are eating. Eating at restaurants is more expensive than cooking your own food or getting takeaway. If you want to save money, cooking your own meals is the best option.

For budget travelers : the average cost of a meal in Scotland per day is £15-20 / $19-25. This means you need to prepare food yourself or go to local restaurants and pubs.

Mid-range travelers should expect to budget around £25-35 / $31-43 per day for meals. You can eat at mid-range restaurants and pubs without breaking the bank.

Luxury travellers should budget around £50-60 / $62-74 per day for meals. You can have a truly luxurious culinary experience with fine dining establishments and pubs without breaking the bank.

We travelled with a motorhome through Scotland and therefore we were able to cook almost everything ourself what saved a lot of money.

Scotland trip cost: Transport

When it comes to transport costs in Scotland, the easiest and cheapest way to get around is by public transport. However, if you want more flexibility then hiring a car or motorhome is the best option.

Budget travelers : should expect to budget around £10-20 / $12-25 per day for transportation. This will include buses and trains.

Mid-range travelers should expect to budget around £50-70 / $62-87 per day for transportation. This include car rental and petrol. We always use Rentalcars to find the best deals to rent a car.

Luxury travellers should budget around £100-140 / $124-173 per day for transportation. This include motorhome rental and petrol. We had a wonderful experience with IndieCamper when renting our motorhome due to their exceptional services and competitive prices. Therefore, we highly recommend them!

It is important to know that transport costs can be different for each person. This is because it depends on which area you are visiting and what you do. The table below shows the total costs for two people based on our Scotland itinerary.

Airplane + rental motorhome: plane ticket +/- £150 p.p. | rental motorhome +/- £1800 | 1800 km | petrol +/- £500 | total $2600.

This is per person £1300 / $1608. Keep in mind that for this amount you covered transport and accommodation costs, so only other cost you make are to eat and doing fun things.

Are you looking for an itinerary through Scotland? Check out our 3 week itinerary of Scotland .

Scotland trip cost: Activities

Scotland has a wide range of activities to choose from, ranging from free walking tours and museum visits to adrenaline-filled adventures. Many activities are free because you do a lot of outdoor activities in Scotland.

Budget travelers : should expect to budget around £5-10 / $6-12 per day for activities. This will include free attractions such as museums and galleries, as well as paid attractions such as visiting the Edinburgh Castle.

Mid-range travelers should expect to budget around £15-30 / $19-38 per day for activities. This will include paid attractions such as boat tours, as well as luxury experiences like whisky tasting.

Luxury travellers should budget around £50-100 / $62-124 per day for activities. This will include next to the normal acitivites also guided tours.

To save money on activities in Scotland try to book tickets ahead so that you can find the best deals. Try to visit sights yourself without a guide which saves a lot of money.

Sure! Here’s a similar text to recommend people to read your beginner guide to hiking:

Tip: interested in exploring the stunning world of hiking? Dive into our beginner’s guide to hiking ! Click here to discover essential tips, gear recommendations, and beginner-friendly trails to embark on your hiking adventures with confidence.

Scotland trip cost: Miscellaneous

Souvenirs, snacks, entrance fees, and insurance can cost a lot of money. To save money on these things, it is important to plan ahead.

Budget travelers : should expect to budget around £5-10 / $6-12 per day for miscellaneous costs. This will include souvenirs, snacks and entrance fees.

Mid-range and luxury travelers should expect to budget around £15-30 / $19-38 per day for miscellaneous costs. This will include travel insurance.

Travel insurance

World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

How much did Scotland cost us

• Accommodation: £500 / $619 (hotel in Edinburgh and campingsites)
• Food: £800 / $990
• Transport: £2600 / $3216 (airplane, motorhome, and petrol)
• Activities: £150 / $186

Total: £4050 / $5010 for two persons which is £2025 / $2505 per person (amounts are rounded). These amounts are based on our trip through Scotland for three weeks. Per day we spend per person: £2025 / $2505 ÷ 20 days = £101 / $125 including airplane ticket.

• Accommodation : we travelled with a motorhome and therefore our accommodation cost are not high because we allocated these cost to transport cost. In general motorhome and renting a car by staying at hostels and hotels is more or less the same in way of cost. Only difference is that with a motorhome you can cook everything yourself so that you can save a lot of money. Important to find the best deals is to book month in advance for Scotland.
• Food : because we traveled with a motorhome we cooked everything ourselve. We only went to restaurants in Edinburgh and did some take out in Isle of Skye. For this reason we saved a lot of money.
• Transport : the best way to travel to Scotland is by car or motorhome. Book a car via Rentalcars or a motorhome via Indiecamper month in advance to find the best deals. We booked 8 month in advance and therefore we were able to book a motorhome for £1800 / $2227 for 17 days which is not expensive.
• Activities : we only spend in total £150 / $186 for two person which is very low. Most of the money we spend was in Edinburgh, visit some castles and doing a whiskey tour. You can save money on this category only we do not recommoned it because these sights are worth visiting.

Tip: it also makes a difference which period you travel in Scotland. If you travel during the summer period, prices are much higher than we mention in this article. Therefore, if you can, try to travel outside the high season (July and August).

Trip to Scotland cost FAQ

1. how do you visit scotland on a budget.

To visit Scotland on a budget, it is important to plan ahead and book tickets for attractions and transport in advance. Try if you like to travel through Scotland with a motorhome. When you have enough electriciy you can park for free in Scotland. Also you can cook everything yourself, which really saves a lot of money. Many activities are outdour so you do not need to pay anything.

Conclusion cost of travel in Scotland

As guideline for mid-range travlers like we are you can expect to spend between £1900-2400 / $2350-2970 when traveling for 3 weeks in Scotland.

When you rent a car or motorhome, try to cook as much as possible yourself.If you stay at camping sites or budget-friendly accommodations and do a lot of your own outdoor activities, Scotland does not have to cost as much money as people often think.

To explore Scotland’s thrilling culture and captivating scenery, be sure to check out our road trip through Scotland . It includes a plethora of ideas for creating your own unique itinerary. Moreover, if you’d like more general information about Scotland as well, feel free to check our comprehensive Scotland travel guide .

What do you think of our Scotland budget tips? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Disclaimer: the prices mentioned in this article may differ from the current situation. We regularly update our articles. Would you like to help us to provide to best possible insights to help other travelers leave a comment with the latest information. Thanks!

Hello, we are Cynthia & Alexander, the team behind Travel Your Memories! Traveling is our passion. When it comes to exploration, we love sharing our tips and adventures to inspire you. Welcome to Travel Your Memories, where we share our love for travel with you! Read our story .

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Scotland Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 1, 2024

Partially conquered by the Romans, Scotland is a land with a turbulent past. It was invaded countless times by the English during the Middle Ages before the Treaty of Union in 1707 united the continent (an unpopular move at the time). Since then, it’s been a part of the United Kingdom (though there is a growing movement for independence).

While Scotland may be a small country (only 5.4 million people call it home), it’s had a huge impact on the direction of the world. Economist Adam Smith, inventor of the telephone Alexander Graham Bell, novelist Robert Louis Stevenson (he wrote Treasure Island ), philosopher David Hume, ecologist John Muir — the list of famous Scots goes on.

I love visiting Scotland. The people, the jovial spirit, the landscape, the booze — Scotland never disappoints (ok, maybe a little with the food). It’s an incredible destination for road trips so make sure you get out of the cities and into the highlands with their rich jagged landscapes. And be sure to head west to the islands of Islay, Jura, and Mull.

This travel guide to Scotland can help you plan where to go, what to see, how to save money, and everything in between!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Scotland

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in scotland.

1. Explore the Scottish Highlands

Visit the highlands of Scotland for moody mountains, rugged terrain, glaciers, lochs, and kilt-clad Scotsmen. While the land may be harsh and unforgiving, you haven’t really seen Scotland until you’ve been here. Don’t miss Glencoe, Cairngorms National Park, Inverness, and the Isle of Skye.

2. Visit Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a glorious city filled with medieval cobblestone streets, lots of green space, free museums, a huge castle, and maybe even some ghosts. There’s a lot to do here so be sure to spend a few days. It’s an amazing place.

3. Celebrate Hogmanay

Hogmanay is one of the largest New Year’s celebrations in the world, attracting over 100,000 people for the two-day festival. The modern iteration has musical acts, a torchlight procession, multiple fireworks displays, and a large street party.

4. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay . It’s been made there since the 16th–century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in big distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and is famous around the world.

5. Visit Inverness

Besides the historic buildings in the Old Town, there is a great selection of places to eat and drink, Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and a Victorian Market. Plus, it is close to Loch Ness (it’s less than a 30-minute drive away), a bunch of distilleries, and a few golf courses.

Other Things to See and Do in Scotland

1. try to find nessie.

Loch Ness is one of the most famous lochs (lakes) in Scotland. It’s the alleged home to Nessie, aka the Loch Ness Monster, a creature said to live in the loch. The first “sightings” date back to the 1870s, though there is no definitive proof that any such creature exists. Nonetheless, the myth perseveres, making Loch Ness a popular destination to visit. While here, you can take a cruise, hike in the nearby hills, and enjoy some of the smaller nearby towns and villages like Dores or the nearby ruins of Urquhart Castle. The best way to get here is to travel to Inverness, from which Loch Ness is close enough to take a day trip to (it’s just a 25-minute drive from Inverness to Lochend, the top of Loch Ness).

2. Wander around Glasgow

Glasgow is a busy and bustling city, home to a youthful population (there is a university here) and a picturesque downtown. With plenty of parks, historical monuments, and museums, there is plenty to do here if you’re on a budget. It’s also a vegan and vegetarian hotspot too! Don’t miss the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, relaxing in Glasgow Green, seeing the cathedral, and day-tripping to the nearby Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

3. See the cathedrals

The cathedrals in Scotland are marvelous with their unique Gothic architecture and imposing heights. A few of the top cathedrals to visit are Dunfermline Abbey and Palace in Fife, St. Magnus Cathedral in the Orkney Islands, St Giles in Edinburgh, and Melrose Abbey in the Borders. Also, don’t miss the Glasgow Cathedral, which was built in 1136 and is the oldest building in Glasgow. Admission is free though donations are encouraged.

4. Puzzle over Rosslyn Chapel

This historic chapel near Edinburgh is ripe with intricate artwork and symbolism that has spawned many conspiracy theories (not to mention books). (Like why is there corn on the wall if corn wasn’t discovered until centuries later?). it was featured heavily in The Da Vinci Code and is located just an hour outside Edinburgh. Admission costs 9.5 GBP.

5. Play golf

The Scottish invented golf in the 15th century. If you’re not lucky enough to play a round at St. Andrews (the most famous course in the country) there are plenty of other immaculate and challenging courses to keep any golf player happy. Try to play during the low season (between November and March) if you want the lowest prices (St. Andrews, for example, costs 220 GBP to play in high season, versus 98 GBP in low season). Castle Stuart (Inverness), Royal Dornoch (Dornoch) , and Muirfield (Gullane) are some other great courses worth playing.

6. See the Cuillin

This dramatic mountain range dominates the Isle of Skye. There are two main ridges (the red and the black), which can be visited as a day trip or a longer two-day hike. Much of the mountain range, which stretches 14 kilometers (8.6 miles), can be hiked, though some peaks require more technical climbing skills. There are campgrounds and a hostel nearby in Glenbrittle as well. Some of the most popular trails are Rubh’ an Dùnain (3-5 hours, easy), Coire Lagan (2 hours, moderate), and Sgùrr Alasdair (6-8 hours, hard).

7. Visit Ruins of Melrose Abbey

Robert I (also known as Robert the Bruce) was the King of Scotland from 1306 until his death in 1329. Legend has it that his heart is buried in the ruins of Melrose Abbey. The abbey, founded in the 12th century and located in Melrose, was repeatedly destroyed by the English in the 14th century. You can still see marks on the surviving walls from cannonballs during the English Civil War. The abbey ruins (which is only a ruin of its former self, composed of several standing walls and arches) are decorated with intricate artwork carved into the remaining stone walls. Admission is 6 GBP.

8. Explore Dundee

Dundee is a lively student city along the coast with a lot of interesting museums. It’s a UNESCO City of Design and is the sunniest spot in the country too. Don’t miss a visit to Discovery Point to learn about the famous Antarctic expedition that launched from here in 1902 on the RSS Discovery (which you can board at the visitor center). Also, be sure to take in the great street art, the Vaults (a series of underground tunnels that date back to the 1750s), and The McManus Art Gallery as well.

9. Visit the Mystical Smoo Cave

The sleepy town of Durness, located 193 kilometers (120 miles) north of Inverness, is the access point for Smoo Cave , a coastline cave complex that can be explored independently or on a tour. Evidence from charcoal samples shows that it may have been inhabited over 4,000 years ago. The cave is free to enter but guided tours, which take you deeper into the cave, are 10 GBP. You get to see a lot more on the tour than you would if you just visit independently. Tours last around 20 minutes.

10. Head to the Isle of Arran

Located 2.5 hours west of Glasgow, this isle is a popular tourist destination for its charming scenery of jagged hills and rugged coasts, walking trails, and historic villages. Visit Brodick Castle, go for a hike, keep a lookout for seals and golden eagles, and enjoy the remote scenery. Don’t miss the Machrie Moor Stone Circles (which are sort of like Stonehenge) — they date back almost 5,000 years!

11. Explore the Cairngorms

Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park in the UK, spanning 4,528 square kilometers (1,748 square miles). Located two hours from Edinburgh by car, it makes for a great getaway for anyone looking to get out and see the highlands. The park is dotted with beautiful B&Bs in historic stone buildings and there are several campgrounds available for anyone traveling in a camper van or with a tent. Wild camping is also permitted, providing you do so responsibly. The park offers lots of hiking trails too. Don’t miss Ryvoan Pass (easy), Dalraddy to Ruthven (moderate), and Ben Macdui (difficult). If you visit in the winter, you can also go skiing on Cairn Gorm Mountain. If you’re lucky, you may spot some of the reindeer that call the park home (it’s the only herd in the British Isles). Admission to the park is free.

12. Attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world’s largest arts festival. It usually lasts three weeks and takes over the entire city of Edinburgh. There are tens of thousands of performances including plays, musicals, live music, puppet shows, and much more! There are literally thousands of different shows held and hundreds of venues around the city. It’s a massive festival and brings in upwards of 3 million visitors. It’s a zany, inspiring, and entertaining festival and one that shouldn’t be missed. Just make sure you book your tickets and accommodation in advance as things fill up fast.

13. Tour the Isle of Skye

This popular island off the northwestern tip of the country is a scenic place to take a road trip. The island offers sweeping views over the rugged coastline, hiking trails, castles, waterfalls, and quaint villages and B&Bs. While most people just visit for a day, I suggest spending a few days driving around and getting off the beaten path. You can visit by bus if you don’t have a car, however, having your own vehicle will give you much more freedom. Don’t miss Dunvegan Castle, the Old Man of Storr rock formation, and brother’s point.

  For more information on cities in Scotland, check out these guides:

• Edinburgh Travel Guide
• Glasgow Travel Guide

Scotland Travel Costs

Accommodation – Most 6-8-bed dorms in Scotland cost 18-22 GBP per night, though prices rise a few pounds in the summer and drop a few in the winter (you can find hostels for as little as 12 GBP in the off-season). Free Wi-Fi and lockers are standard, and most hostels also have self-catering facilities. Private rooms in a hostel cost around 40-65 GBP per night.

Budget hotels cost around 55-75 GBP per night with standard amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and coffee/tea makers. Some include free breakfast.

Airbnb is widely available in Scotland and is especially useful in the smaller towns and villages where there are fewer traditional hotels and hostels. A private room generally costs 25-30 GBP per night while entire homes/apartments start at 55 GBP per night, though most options are 70 GBP and above.

If you want to camp, expect to pay around 17 GBP per night for a basic plot (a small flat space for a tent without electricity). Most campgrounds close for the winter so availability is limited come late October/early November. If you’re in a car or campervan, you can use the app “park4night” to find paid overnight parking, free overnight parking, and campgrounds.

Food – Scottish food is hearty, heavy, and filling. Seafood is abundant, and popular traditional dishes include blood pudding, minced beef, fish and chips, smoked herring, neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes), and of course haggis (a dish composed of minced sheep’s organs and spices inside a sheep’s stomach casing). Porridge is a common breakfast choice, though a larger breakfast of sausage, eggs, beans, and bread is not uncommon either. Sticky toffee pudding is a favorite dessert, and of course, you can’t visit Scotland without sampling some scotch.

Expect to pay around 10-12 GBP for a basic meal (like a Scottish breakfast). For pub food like a burger or fish and chips, prices are usually between 12-20 GBP for a meal. For a full three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant, prices begin around 27 GBP.

A pint of beer is around 4 GBP while a glass of wine is around 5.50 GBP. A latte or cappuccino is around 2.70 GBP.

If you’re looking for fast food (think McDonald’s), expect a combo meal to cost around 6 GBP. A classic fish and chips from a no-frills takeaway spot is around 6 GBP, while Chinese takeaway is around 8-10 GBP. Street food (like from a food truck) costs around 6-8 GBP. Eat near the universities for the cheapest food options.

A week’s worth of groceries costs around 40-60 GBP. This covers basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat. The cheapest supermarkets to look out for are Aldi, Lidl, Asda, and Tesco.

Backpacking Scotland Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Scotland for around 55 GBP per day. On this budget, you’re staying in a dorm room or camping, cooking all of your meals, using local transportation, sticking to mostly free activities (like hiking, museums, or free walking tours), and limiting your drinking.

On a mid-range budget of about 105 GBP, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat out at cheap local restaurants for a few meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting castles or doing a whisky tasting.

On a “luxury” budget of 210 GBP or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink what you want, take the train between cities or rent a car, and visit as many museums and attractions as you’d like. This is just the ground floor for luxury though — you can easily spend more if you want to splash out!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

Scotland Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While Scotland is expensive, there are lots of ways to lower your costs. Here are some tips to help you save money in Scotland:

• Get the Edinburgh City Pass – If you’re planning to explore Edinburgh, get the City Pass. For 45 GBP, you get access to 22 attractions as well as free transportation to and from the airport. There is also a two-day pass for 55 GBP and a three-day pass for 65 GBP.
• Eat in a pub – The best food is often in the pubs at a fraction of the price compared to a proper restaurant. Also, pubs generally give you a true taste of Scottish culture. Scotland is pub-land – they’re everywhere.
• Eat during lunch – Many cafes, bakeries, and chains offer lunch deals for as little as 3-5 GBP.
• Visit the free museums – The public museums in Scotland are free so take advantage! Free museums include The National Museum of Scotland, Scottish National Gallery, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.
• Use buses – If you need to go anywhere, buses are by far the cheapest way to reach the widest range of places on a regular schedule. You can even find tickets for just 1 GBP from Megabus if you book far enough in advance.
• Avoid eating and shopping in the city centers – Both Glasgow and Edinburgh get significantly more expensive the closer you get to the city center. There are plenty of good restaurants and quirky shops outside of the center, so go for those. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
• Use apps to get food deals – On the app Too Good to Go, participating eateries sell severely discounted meals/groceries/baked goods at the end of the day. You just sign up, see what is being offered near you, and pick up your cheap food at the end of the day. It has good coverage all across Scotland, particularly in Edinburgh. For discounts on takeout try the app Secret Takeaways which supports local restaurants in Edinburgh and Glasgow by cutting out the delivery app middleman (and their high fees).
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is the best way to save on accommodation in Scotland. You’ll not only save some money but get access to a knowledgeable local who can help point you to some of the country’s hidden gems. It may not be fancy, but you’ll get a unique experience and learn far more about the destination than if you stayed in a hotel!
• Take a free walking tour – If you want to understand more about the history, architecture, and people of Scotland then be sure to take a free walking tour. They usually last a couple of hours and are a great introduction to the city. New Europe has a great free tour in Edinburgh and Visit Scotland offers one in Glasgow.
• Cook your own meals – Eating out in the UK isn’t cheap. Save yourself some money and cook a few meals for yourself. It may not be as fancy as eating out, but your wallet will thank you!
• Rent a campervan – If you’re planning to get out of the city, rent a camper van. You can get them for as little as 30 GBP per day. They come with basic self-catering facilities so you can cook your food and have somewhere cheap to stay. There are lots of free places to park around the country. Just use the app park4night to find them.
• Use BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing app you can use to travel in between cities. It’s faster than the bus and usually just as cheap. You have to find a ride, which can sometimes be hit or miss, but the profiles are verified and reviewed so it’s quite safe. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with other locals/travelers.
• Use discount websites – Groupon, Wowcher and Living Social have good deals on accommodation, attractions, and dining out.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Scotland

Accommodation in Scotland isn’t cheap, but there are nevertheless lots of great hostels to stay at to help you meet people and save money. Here are my favorite hostels in Scotland:

• Castle Rock (Edinburgh)
• Edinburgh Backpackers (Edinburgh)
• Kick Ass Grassmarket (Edinburgh)
• Glasgow Youth Hostel (Glasgow)
• Euro Hostel Glasgow (Glasgow)
• Broadford backpackers (Isle of Skye)
• Stirling Youth Hostel (Stirling)

How to Get Around Scotland

Public Transportation – Public buses and trams cost around 1.50-2 GBP for one-way ride. For a single-day pass, expect prices to start at 4 GBP per person. In Glasgow, a 7-day public transportation pass costs 17 GBP.

Only Glasgow has a subway system and the tickets for the bus and metro are not interchangeable as they are operated by two different companies (though prices between the two are comparable).

Airport shuttles cost around 6-8 GBP each way.

Flying – Flying around Scotland is both inconvenient and expensive. There are very few direct flights, making it slower to fly than to take the bus. I would avoid flying and just take the bus or train.

Bus – Buses are a popular and affordable way to get around the country as they link most destinations in the country. Scottish Citylink, Stagecoach, Megabus, and National Express are the four main companies that operate here. Tickets can be found for as little as 1 GBP via Megabus, though they’re usually around 10-25 GBP.

Edinburgh to Glasgow, for example, is a one-hour bus ride that costs 8 GBP while the three-hour journey from Glasgow to Inverness costs around 20-30 GBP. The sooner you book your ticket, the lower the price, so always try to book in advance. The coaches here are modern and comfortable with bathrooms and Wi-Fi as well.

Train – Trains connect all the major cities in Scotland (as well as the towns and villages they pass through). When purchased in advance (12 weeks out is the sweet spot), tickets are only a little more expensive than the bus. For example, Inverness to Glasgow takes about as long as the bus and is only 30 GBP while Edinburgh-Glasgow is 30 minutes faster than the bus for just 1-2 GBP more. Just be sure to book early to get the best prices. Last-minute tickets can be expensive!

Car rental – Scotland is a great road trip destination. You can get cars for 20 GBP per day and campers for 30 GBP per day. Just remember that traffic flows on the left. Most vehicles are manual transmissions as well. Renters need to be at least 21 years of age.

Rideshare – Ridesharing apps like Uber are a reliable but expensive way to get around in cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh. Skip them if you can.

For longer distances, use BlaBlaCar. It’s a ridesharing app that pairs you with drivers who are traveling to other cities. They have profiles and reviews (similar to Airbnb) so it’s quite safe. It’s usually not as cheap as the bus, but it’s faster and more comfortable.

When to Go to Scotland

Summer is the most popular time to visit Scotland. In July and August, there’s warm weather and minimal rain, with temperatures reaching highs of around 20°C (68°F). This is also the busiest time of the year, so expect crowds in the cities and lots of people out enjoying the national parks. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes place in August, which is a huge multi-week festival. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance if you’re visiting during this time.

September is a rather wet month, though in October there’s incredible fall foliage. Overall, October is a great time to visit — especially if you plan on renting a car or camper and heading into the Cairngorms (Scotland’s biggest national park). Seasonal businesses and accommodations start to close in mid-October so be sure to keep that in mind when planning. Expect October temperatures to hover around 12°C (55°F) during the day.

The spring is a great time to visit, with April and May offering minimal rain and no crowds. There’s still snow and cool temperatures in the highlands, but the cities are lively without being crowded.

Winters in Scotland are cold and dark. December is relatively dry, with temperatures dipping below 0°C (32°F). It’s nevertheless a popular time to visit, with many tourists coming to Edinburgh for the huge Hogmanay New Year’s Eve celebration (one of the biggest New Year’s festivals in the world). Book your accommodation well in advance if you plan to attend.

By February, snow is common so keep that in mind if you plan on renting a vehicle. Unless you’re coming to engage in winter sports, I’d avoid a winter visit unless you don’t mind the grim and grey atmosphere of the country.

How to Stay Safe in Scotland

Scotland is a safe country, even for solo travelers, and even for solo female travelers. Like in all cities, stay vigilant when you’re in crowded tourist areas or on public transportation as that is when pickpockets usually strike. If you keep your valuable secure, however, you shouldn’t have any issues.

Additionally, solo female travelers don’t need to worry in Scotland, however, women should take the standard precautions when traveling alone at night (don’t travel alone intoxicated, keep an eye on your drink, etc.).

Keep in mind that traffic flows on the left here. Most vehicles are manual transmissions and have the gear shift on the left (which is opposite to most other countries). Driving might take some getting used to so drive carefully — especially in cities and when going through roundabouts.

If you are hiking, make sure you have the appropriate equipment and notify your accommodation of your plans just in case as the weather can change quickly in the highlands.

While scams here are rare, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here if you’re concerned.

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

If you don’t do it at home, don’t do it in Scotland!

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Scotland Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Edinburgh Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Scotland and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hostels in Edinburgh

10 Scotland Road Trip Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

The 6 Best Hotels in Edinburgh

The Best Walking Tours in Edinburgh

Where to Stay in Edinburgh: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh

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Find Your Tour

Scotland trip costs.

We created Secret Scotland to help people plan Scotland tours that would deliver great experiences without breaking the bank.

You don’t need to be rich to have a great time in Scotland, you just need sound local knowledge to make your money go further. And that’s where we can help.

So how much is your Scotland trip going to cost if you book it all by yourself?

Here are some guidelines and money-saving tips to help you.

If you are flying from North America there are only a few Trans-Atlantic flights that take you directly to a Scottish Airport. So most North American visitors will need to make a transfer at one of the London airports.

But there is an alternative.

Have a look at flights that transit through Reykjavik Airport or the Irish airports of Shannon and Dublin.

Naturally, we can’t estimate what an airfare will cost you as there are so many variables that influence the rate you’ll pay, but the airlines that often have the best deals on these routes are Icelandair, Aer Lingus, Norwegian Airlines and Virgin Atlantic.

The other thing that can save you some money on trans-Atlantic flights is to book as early as you can. In most cases, you can book a flight 11 months in advance.

Cost of Car Hire

The best way to tour Scotland is by car and there are lots of vehicle rental companies to choose from.

We favour Arnold Clark Rental as they are Scottish-owned, have a large network of garages all over Scotland, and our clients always have good feedback about their service. We’ve set up a discount scheme with Arnold Clark so you can get 10% off your hire car costs when you book online using the Secret Scotland code that is in your itinerary. We don’t get anything out of this, we just like to help out Scottish businesses that do a good job.

If you are travelling as a couple with 2 large suitcases and 2 carry-on bags, you will get by fine with a small car of Vauxhall Corsa size. A manual Corsa would cost you about £300 - £350 for 7 days ( assumming you book it 3 - 4 months in advance! )

But you may want an automatic shift. If so you will need to get something larger (the smallest Automatic models available are typically VW Golf / Kia Ceed sized). You pay a bit more as automatics are considered a luxury option in Scotland. Rates for an automatic car start at around £390 for 7 days.

Travel Tip: Don’t bother with hiring a car whilst staying in Edinburgh. The city is quite compact and most of the main attractions are within walking distance or are easily reached by bus. Furthermore, City centre parking is expensive and parking spaces can be a pain to find so a car in Edinburgh can be more hassle than it's worth unless you are staying outside of the city centre. In saying that, there are lots of good places that you can do as day trips by car from Edinburgh and all our tour plans detail routes you can drive as a day trip from the city.

It’s obviously hard to give a figure for this as it will depend on the miles covered, the type of car you have and the way you like to drive.

Please note, at the time of writing, June 2022, fuel prices have risen sharply and may fall back, but we think this unlikely.

What you need to know is that fuel is heavily taxed in Scotland so a litre of Unleaded Petrol costs about £1.65 a litre, and Diesel costs around £1.82. Remember : a US Gallon is 3.78 litres and an Imperial gallon is 4.55 litres.

A small manual car can be expected to return around 40 miles per Imperial gallon in the mixed driving conditions you’d encounter whilst touring Scotland. So that equates to roughly 19 pence per mile for fuel costs.

A medium sized automatic would probably return a figure closer to 30 miles per gallon, which works out at about 25 pence per mile.

If you browse our Scotland Tours, you will see that we give you the mileage involved in driving the core route covered by the itinerary. That's just the mileage for the route legs between stopover locations without adding on day trip and detour options. You can use this information to get an idea of what to budget for fuel costs.

Travel Tip: Fuel costs more in rural areas of Scotland. It’s great to support the petrol stations in these remote communities as they provide a vital service, but if you want to save a few pounds you’ll find that fuel is cheaper in the larger towns.

Ferry Fares:

Almost all of the ferry routes in Scotland are operated by a company called CalMac.

The only major islands not served by CalMac ferries are the Orkney and Shetland Islands. Northlink Ferries sail to Orkney and Shetland. There is also a service to Orkney run by Pentland Ferries.

Calmac fares are heavily subsidised by the Scottish Government and are really not too expensive on the shorter ferry routes. They operate a simple pricing structure with different fares for winter and summer, but the price doesn’t otherwise vary.

To give you some feel for ferry fares, we’ve quoted Summer 2022 single ticket prices for the more popular ferry routes:

Travel Tip: Book early to avoid disappointment. CalMac and Northlink Ferries both operate online booking systems and it is wise to get your tickets booked as soon as you know your dates of travel. Some routes book up faster than others and you need to move fast if you want tickets for sailing to Lewis or Harris in the peak summer months.

Accommodation:

If you are on a budget but don’t want to compromise on comfort, we recommend you book accommodation with Bed & Breakfasts.

We offer accommodation guides that feature B&Bs which we have personally visited and selected because we are confident that we can recommend their services and the hospitality of the hosts.

The B&Bs we recommend are professional businesses and you will not find yourselves in a situation where you need to feel like you are intruding in someone’s home. The guests’ rooms are separate from the owners living areas and all have their own private bathroom facilities.

Travel Tip: If booking 3 nights in the same place, you should ask if there are any reductions. B&B owners will quite often be happy to knock a few pounds off for long stays (3 nights or more is considered a long stay)..

To get the best room rates , book your accommodation directly with the B&B / Guesthouse / Hotel instead of using an intermediary website like Booking.com. These websites charge commission on bookings and this often gets added onto the price of your room. 

Good food is important to us. In fact, it was a great meal in a remote Scottish restaurant that sparked off a conversation that led to us getting the idea for Secret Scotland.

You see, Scotland has lots of great restaurants doing brilliant food with fresh local ingredients, but these restaurants are often small places that tourists don’t find so they don’t appear in Tripadvisor or mainstream travel guides. As a result, a lot of people visit Scotland and fall into the trap of going to the touristy restaurants which make an easy living out of serving mediocre food because they have a prime location that is easily found.

For the Secret Scotland guides, we go out of our way to find places that offer great food at reasonable prices. We’re not the sort of people that blow £60 per person on a Michelin-star restaurant. Our budget is much smaller, but we appreciate good food. After all, Aury is French so her benchmark is set high.

So what should you budget for food during your Scotland Tour?

Well, the first thing to realise is that a Full Scottish Breakfast at a B&B can set you up for most of the day so lunch doesn’t need to be a big affair. After a morning plate of bacon, eggs, haggis, mushrooms, tomato (and maybe some black pudding) plus several slices of toast and jam, we can make it through to dinner with just a coffee and cake for lunch.

So maybe just budget £6 - £10 per person for a lunchtime snack and a drink.

For an evening meal, you can use the following guidelines for pricing:

Starters: £5 - £10

• £5 would get you a bowl of soup
• £10 would be something more exotic like smoked salmon or langoustine.

Main courses: £10 - £25

• £10 - £12 : This will typically get you something simple like Haggis, Neeps & Tatties, a vegetarian dish, or Haddock & Chips.
• £13 - £17 : This would buy you something more interesting and for this price range you might expect duck breast, salmon fillet or lamb.
• £17 - £25 : For £17+ you can get a good steak. A seafood platter with langoustine, mussels, smoked fish scallops etc. is likely to cost you over £20.

Desserts: Typically around £5 - £7

Drinks:  

• Glass of Wine: Small (175ml) ~£4.50 - £6 / Large (250ml...why not?) £6 - £8
• Bottle of Wine: starting from £16
• Pint of Beer: ~£4.50 - £6
• Soft Drink: £1.50 - £2.50

So as a rough rule of thumb, we’d advise you to budget a baseline of ~£20 - £25 per person for a good 2-course dinner with a drink.

Of course, you could save money by buying take-away food, and you can expect to pay ~£7 to £10 for a very filling supper from a traditional “Chippie”. But a week of eating deep-fried food is a daunting thought.

Travel Tip : If you are staying in a city or reasonably large town, you’ll often find that the restaurants do a discounted pre-theatre menu for sittings before 6 - 6:30pm. The pre-theatre menu will typically have fewer options, but if you don’t mind eating early it is a good way to save on the cost of dining out without compromising on the quality.

Attractions

There are simply too many variables involved in this to enable us to give you a steer on what this will cost as it depends on what you want to do and how long you have to fit it in.

We have tried to give you some idea of admission costs with the example below of what you might visit if using our Historic Scotland itinerary for planning 7 days in Scotland.

There are, however, some deals on passes for attractions that are worth mentioning. And the most useful is the Explorer Pass from Historic Environment Scotland (HES). This organisation maintains a large number of historically important buildings and sites. A lot of the properties they manage are ruined castles, but they also look after some of the famous places that you are likely to have on your wish list. For example; Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and Urquhart Castle.

Fans of the “Outlander” TV show will also be interested to know that the filming locations of Linlithgow Palace, Blackness Castle and Doune Castle are all HES properties.

Historic Environment Scotland offers a 7-Day Explorer Pass  that gives you access to more than 70 properties in summer. The prices for a 7 day Explorer pass are £35 (Adult), £21 (Child), £28 (Concession). £70 (Family 2 Adults + 3 Children).

But are they worth getting?

Well if you plan to spend a week in Scotland with visits to Edinburgh, Stirling and Urquhart castle, the combined admission fees for an adult would be £45.50. So a 7 day Explorer Pass would save you £10 and you could enjoy lots of other castles without worrying about the entry fee.

HES also does cheaper Explorer Passes for specific regions of Scotland. We found their pass for Orkney to be particularly valuable as so many of the historical sites on Orkney are maintained by Historic Environment Scotland.

Travel Tip: If you plan to visit Edinburgh Castle, Holyroodhouse Palace, the Royal Yacht and do a bus tour, then you should look at the 48 hour Royal Edinburgh Ticket which can save you a combined total of £7 on the admission fees at these attractions.

Example of How Much a Scotland trip might cost:

To give you some idea of what you might spend on your Scotland tour, we have taken one of our itineraries for 7 days in Scotland (in this case the Historic Scotland tour plan) and detailed how you might schedule the trip and how much you might spend on visitor attractions.

• We are basing this on 2 adults spending 7 nights in Scotland .
• We assume that the hire car is collected on the Morning of Day 3 and returned around 5pm on Day 7.
• We assume that you will have pre-purchased a 7 day Explorer pass for 2 adults and we flag up the attractions that will be covered by this.

Day 1 - Arrive in Edinburgh

You may just want an easy start to your trip as you might be suffering from jet lag. So start your time in Edinburgh with a relaxed wander from the castle down the Royal Mile, but just take it easy and don’t aim to cram in too much today.

You may wish to start with a city sightseeing bus tour. These are priced at ~£16 per adult and the tickets are valid for 24 hours so hold onto your tickets for Day 2. We assume you will wish to visit Edinburgh Castle, but this is a busy attraction and we actually rate Stirling castle as a more historically interesting alternative. From the castle, you can then walk down the Royal Mille and stop for visits to Victoria Street, Greyfriars Kirk, the National Museum of Scotland and St Giles Cathedral.

Some of the possible visitor attractions on this day would be:

• Edinburgh Castle - included in the HES Explorer Pass
• The Museum of Scotland (Free)
• Greyfriars Graveyard (Free)
• St Giles (Free)

Day 2 - Explore Edinburgh

Our guides contain suggestions for day trips around Edinburgh that you can do by car, but if you are not collecting a hire car until Day 3 you can still explore a lot with public transport.

The “Majestic” hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour costs £16 per adult and it takes you along the Royal Mile from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. After a visit to the palace, you can hop back on the bus and travel across town to Leith where the Royal Yacht Britannia is moored. By this stage of the day, you might be grateful for the chance to slow things down a bit so hop-off the Majestic bus tour at the Royal Botanic Gardens for a wander around this inner-city oasis where you can also get something to eat whilst watching the squirrels.

Alternatively, you could venture out of Edinburgh by taking the bus to Rosslyn Chapel (£9.50 entry fee). A visit by bus from the city centre to Rosslyn and back would take ~3 hours as it is a 45 minute bus ride and the return fare would be £4.50 for an All-Day Ticket.

• Majestic Bus Tour (£16)
• Palace of Holyroodhouse (£15)
• Royal Yacht Britannia (£16.50)
• Royal Botanic Gardens (free)

Day 3 - Collect Hire Car and drive to Pitlochry

• Dunkeld Cathedral (free)
• The for a woodland walk to Black Linn Falls (£3 car parking)
• Blair Athol Distillery (£10) or Edradour Distillery (£12)
• Blair Castle (£16)
• Drive from Blair Castle to Loch Tummel before returning to Pitlochry

Mileage for today: ~120 miles

Day 4 - Pitlochry to Inverness via Cairngorms National Park

• Highland Folk Park museum at Newtonmore (free)
• Cawdor Castle (£13.50)
• Culloden Battlefield (£11)
• Fort George - included in the HES Explorer Pass

Mileage for today: ~115 miles

Day 5 - Inverness to Oban

• Urquhart Castle - included in the HES Explorer Pass
• Glenfinnan Visitor centre - £3 for parking / access to monument is £4
• Glen Coe Visitor centre - £4 for car parking
• Dunstaffnage Castle - included in the HES Explorer Pass

Mileage for today: ~150 miles

Day 6 - Day Trips from Oban

Our tour plan suggests lots of day trip options from Oban and you could pick from a tour around Argyll, a visit to the Lorn Islands, a day trip on the Jacobite steam train, or a day trip excursion to Mull, Iona and Staffa.

For this example, we are using the day trip to Mull, Iona and Staffa as it is one of the more expensive options at £86 per adult, but it is a very full day trip and that price includes the ferry from Oban to Mull, coach travel across Mull and the boat trips to Iona and Staffa. Admission to Iona Abbey is not included.

Day 7 - Oban to Edinburgh Airport

• St Conan's Kirk - free but donations welcomed
• Kilchurn Castle - free
• Doune Castle - included in the HES Explorer Pass
• Stirling Castle - included in the HES Explorer Pass

Mileage for today: ~125 miles

So for 2 adults travelling together following this outline of an itinerary for 7 days in Scotland, the costs would be:

Car Hire for 5 days = £300 (for a small manual car)  Fuel costs for example route (~510 miles) = ~£100 to £130

Accommodation for 7 nights = ~£750 - £850 2 course Dinner for 2 for 7 nights = ~£350 - £400

2 x Explorer Pass for 7 days = £70 

Admission to listed attractions for 2 adults = £228 Day Trip to Mull, Iona & Staffa for 2 adults = £172

Total for 2 adults = £1,970 to £2,150

We’ve tried to be as accurate as we can be, but there are obviously lots of variables that you need to factor in. So please realise that this is really just meant as a basic guide of what to budget for.

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9 tips to help you explore Scotland on a budget

Jun 2, 2023 • 7 min read

Maximize your budget while traveling around Scotland with these insider tips © SolStock / Getty Images

For all its lavish castles, ornamented palaces and hunting estates for the well-to-do, Scotland is a nation of shrewd spenders.

Small wonder locals are said to have short arms and deep pockets, meaning theirs is a culture often driven by the need to save money, spend wisely and maximize fun. Virtue is always found in frugality. 

The country itself also seems to have been born with the thrifty in mind . So many world-class sights are gloriously free and, from rippling mountains to deep sea lochs to heather-mussed glens, traveling on a tight budget is stress-free. All you need is a sense of adventure and to know that food , transportation and accommodation are as expensive, or as cheap, as you want to make them.

Here are our top tips and travel hacks to help you save money on a visit to Scotland, along with a guide to daily costs.

Daily costs

Hotel room: £80–150 Campsite: from £12 Public transport ticket: £2–4 Coffee: £3.50 Sandwich: £4 Dinner for two: £60–80 Beer/pint at the bar: £5–6 Bottle of Irn Bru: £2 Dram of whisky: £5–7 Haggis, neeps and tatties in a pub: £12 Wild camping: Free Whale and dolphin watching from land: Free

As a rough guide, a total average daily cost , covering three meals a day, plus accommodation and a small budget for activities, should cost in the range of £120–170. Note, this depends on numerous factors, including on where you choose to stay and eat, and whether you are in a pricier destination like Edinburgh or Glasgow or not. 

Visit at the cheapest time of year

It’s a given that summer is the busiest season to visit . You can expect the warmest temperatures and sunniest days for hill walking , watersports, golfing and island-hopping, plus festival season is in full swing — in particular, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe turns the capital upside down (in a good way) every August. By virtue of this, it also makes it the most expensive time to visit the city, with accommodation rates almost doubling throughout the month. 

Other times to avoid to keep your budget on track are December and January. The Hogmanay festivities drive prices up during the post-Christmas New Year period and, after the turn of the year, the party continues unabated. Celtic Connections brings in thousands of folk-spirited music fans to Glasgow, while nationwide ceilidhs on Burns Night on January 25 and Up Helly Aa , held on the last Tuesday in January in Lerwick , Shetland , always see a visitor influx.

As a rule of thumb, April to June are commonly the best all-round months to visit, with the countryside relatively-rain free, meaning free wild camping is on the agenda after the winter snows and before the midge clouds start to make a nuisance of themselves. 

Figure out which airport is the cheapest to fly to — and if it’s actually worth it

Scotland’s capital Edinburgh is connected to more UK, European and international destinations than anywhere else. But in peak season that can make it more expensive than arriving in other gateway cities. If traveling onwards to the Highlands , for instance, consider flying into Inverness or Aberdeen . Likewise, Glasgow is a better bet if your destination is the wind-whipped golf coast of Ayrshire, beach-bejewelled Kintyre, or the whisky havens of Southern Hebrides. 

In the same manner, rental car prices vary dramatically. Edinburgh is the main point of arrival for most visitors (the international airport handled 11.2 million passengers in 2022, compared to around 1 million at Inverness Airport), so expect rates to be more competitive elsewhere. 

Rent an electric vehicle and charge for free

A milestone for a more meaningful trip, Scotland was the first place in the UK to offer electric campervan rentals. They first arrived in Orkney , where there are now more super chargers than petrol stations, and going electric is increasingly a way of life. It’s easier than ever to hire an electric vehicle or green motorhome, then take advantage of free charge points. In fact, Scotland is now scattered with more than 1500 chargers and the network is accelerating at pace.

Or save by riding a bike

Cycling too is on the up. Bikepacking (when you travel with only the bare essentials) is one of the country’s fastest-growing sports and the fixation on traveling lighter, slower and more sustainably is becoming an addiction. Added to this, new routes and trails are appearing on the map all the time. The latest is the Kirkpatrick C2C, a 250-mile journey across southern Scotland from Stranraer on the west coast to Eyemouth overlooking the swells of the North Sea. 

Take the train when traveling with your family

Bringing the kids along? Then you’re in luck. Under 5s always travel free on trains and weekend tickets with national operator ScotRail only cost £1 return each for up to four kids for every paying adult.

You can stay for free, anytime you want

Unlike the rest of the UK, wild camping is permitted throughout Scotland. The urge to sleep under canvas is strong and everyone has unrivalled access to the country’s dramatically different landscapes and seasons. Want to sleep overlooking a Hebridean beach? Or pitch your tent at the top of a Munro (a mountain with a height over 3000ft/914m), to appreciate both sunset and sunrise? Go right ahead. 

Exceptions to this rule are in effect in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park , which is restricted to permit-only pitches from March 1 to September 30. During this time, you will need to sleep in a camping management zone, with permits costing £4 per tent or campervan per night.

Save by sleeping in one of Scotland’s no-frill ‘bothies’

As life-affirming as they are low-key, the ‘bothy’ is a uniquely Scottish phenomenon: a bare-bones, shelter-style accommodation.

Most are completely off-grid, almost closely-guarded secrets tended by voluntary stewards and requiring long walks or bike rides to reach their locations. Others offer different challenges and sit on unsignposted, lonely passes, with only the most basic of facilities — at many, you’ll be beyond 4G network reception, so make sure you take a map and know how to read it beforehand.

Certainly, the reward is a free bed for the night, as long as you respect the leave-no-trace philosophy. You’ll have to carry in all your supplies (food, sleeping bag, candles), fetch water from a nearby stream,and share your temporary home for the night with whoever else turns up. On such nights, whisky shared around the fire turns into a sort of communion. It’s also worth noting there is no booking system. But is it worth it? Undoubtedly. The Mountain Bothies Association is an excellent resource.

There are terrific cheap eats everywhere

Scotland’s larder might grasp your imagination, with thoughts of langoustine and lobster, haunch of roe deer and Highland wagyu. But budget eats and character-building savory items are far more common in cafes, pubs and takeaways. These snacks include sausage rolls, Scotch pies and anything beige in color or deep-fried, from fish and chips to even burgers, pizzas and pakoras (Indian-style fritter). For the record, no one in Scotland ever eats a battered Mars Bar.

For dishes with more razzmatazz, Edinburgh and Glasgow now have more Michelin-star restaurants than at any other time in their history, and inexpensive 2- and 3-course lunches for around £35 are a terrific way to eat exceptionally, without the need to splash out. Such edible joy, at prices less than you might think, can be found at The Little Chartroom , Fhior , The Lookout by Gardener’s Cottage , The Palmerston , Aizle and Skua in Edinburgh, and Unalome by Graeme Cheevers , Ox and Finch and The Gannet in Glasgow. Check websites in advance for lunch specials and pre-theater deals. 

Don’t buy drinks, take a water bottle

A hard truth is so many countries have terrible drinking water right from the tap. Not Scotland. This is a destination with some of the freshest, cleanest H2O anywhere on the planet. Bring a reusable bottle and help save on plastic and your budget.

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Nikki On Her Way

Travel more, travel better.

How Much Does It REALLY Cost To Travel Scotland?

12.01.23 | Nikki Gibson | 7 Comments

If you are planning a trip to Scotland, I’m sure it has crossed your mind to ask “how much does it cost to travel Scotland?” Because hey, we don’t all have an unlimited travel budget!

Below, I will outline the cost to visit Scotland in the Summer AND Winter, to give you an idea of both.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.

Well, of course, the cost of your trip is going to depend on lots of factors, so I cannot predict exactly how much you may spend. BUT, I can share my personal experience and give you context to help you estimate just how much you might spend while visiting Scotland.

And, I can give you an idea of the categories and types of things you will undoubtedly spend money on in Scotland so you can create your own travel budget.

If you are still in the planning stage and want to know our itinerary, I’ve shared it in a long and detailed blog post about our one week Scotland road trip.

When my husband and I left for our 6 month trip to 18 countries , we knew that airfare would be one of the single largest individual costs of our trip. So, after a little bit of research, we found a way to get affordable flights all over the world : travel credit cards.

The first note here that I need to make is that almost no flight is truly free, you do have to pay the taxes and fees. But, what if I told you I just bought a $6 flight from North Carolina, USA to Athens, Greece this week. Or that I’ve spent only $11 for me and Colton to fly from NC to Turkey?

Would you believe those numbers?

I never in a million years thought I could fly abroad for less than a few hundred dollars, and that’s if I somehow found an amazing deal!

It wasn’t until I came across travel credit cards and the world of points and miles that I understood how these serial travelers I was seeing everywhere were affording their flights.

The trick was, they were barely paying for them.

So, after tons of research, applying for credit cards, hitting bonuses, and of course getting everything in order to leave home for 6 months to travel, I bought our one way flights out of the country for $11.

How did we do it?

The world of points and miles, of course!

Let me tell you how we did it and give you the information you need to start earning free flights with your credit card! 

Let me preface this with one statement: the world of points and miles is BIG and there is a lot that you honestly don’t need to know to just get started.

So, I’m going to give you the most necessary information to get you started and cut out all the fluff. Let’s go!

I promise you this is not a scam, because maybe that’s the first place your mind is headed when I say “free” flights. 

In fact, paying with points and miles to purchase flights at insanely low prices is entirely legal, I promise!

Want my help choosing a travel credit card? Fill out my Free Credit Card Consultation Form & I’ll email you personalized recommendations!

Interested in checking out my travel credit card recommendations? Find them here!

What Are Points and Miles

Table of Contents

Points and miles are the reward currency of airlines and hotels: aka loyalty points. 

I’m not talking about the points you earn by flying with an airline repeatedly, that you only rack up over several years. 

I’m talking about points and miles you earn just from having the credit card you already use!

Each bank or airline that offers credit cards with points and miles use them as an alternative currency for purchasing flights. 

Many of the banks that offer travel credit cards have both airline and non-airline branded credit cards: a.k.a the airline the bank has partnered with offers airline miles as the sign up bonus, not credit card points. Those miles can only be used with that airline. 

If you apply for a bank branded card with no airline association, you’ll earn points with that bank that can then be transferred to their airline or hotel partners. 

How To Get Points And Miles With Travel Credit Cards?

The fastest way, and most likely reason why you’re wanting a travel credit card, is to earn points with a sign up bonus.

Most banks offer a sign up bonus of varying amounts after a certain amount of qualifying purchases on the card in the first few months. 

It might sound something like this: “earn 60k bonus points when you spend $3,000 dollars on purchases in the first 4 months.” Yadah yadah. 

But, you will also earn points while using your card on your everyday purchases! Some cards offer bonus categories, like 3x on grocery purchases, or 2x at restaurants, etc. So, when you spend money on your card, you’ll earn points in return that can be redeemed for various things, like flights or hotel stays. 

Generally, if you’re wanting to redeem miles for flights or hotels, you’re going to need a good chunk of miles to do so. 

You can purchase some domestic flights with as little as 8,500k points one way, but if you’re flying international, it will likely cost you 15k one way, at the very least. 

Of course, the cost of award flights in points can greatly vary and is not always directly tied to the cash ticket price.

Other ways to earn points with travel credit cards include anniversary bonuses, giveaways, and transfer bonuses. These come and go and aren’t something I would rely on.

For the purposes of this post, which is all about a beginner’s guide to free flights with points and miles, sign up bonuses are your very best friend. 

READ ALSO: How to Save Money for Travel – Budget & Save for Your Next Trip 8 Simple Tips to Help You Save Money While Traveling 5 Tips To Find Cheap International Flights

How Much Are Points and Miles Worth?

Not all points are created equal.

Some points are more valuable than others simply because you can transfer and redeem them in more ways. 

Points and miles also get their value depending on the deal you get when redeeming them. 

Let me give you an example scenario to explain…

For example, let’s say you have 75k Capital One miles and you want to fly from Atlanta, Georgia to Athens, Greece for an amazing holiday eating delicious Mediterranean food and swimming in crystal clear waters for 8 days. 

These are the flights you’re looking at. They’ll take you to Greece during the best time to visit, late summer when it isn’t too crowded and not too hot.

You have a few options for how you can book these flights with points

Option 1: Redeem Points with a Travel Portal

Option 1 is to redeem your points through Capital One Travel and their online portal. When you do this, you’re going to get a fixed redemption rate of 1¢ per mile .

So your 75k miles would be worth $750 for travel. You could use those 75k miles to buy a flight worth up to $750 through the Capital One Travel portal. That’s over half of what this ticket is worth. So you would still have to pay about $390+ on top of your 75k miles for this ticket. 

We can definitely do better than that!

Option 2: Transfer to a Partner

Option 2 would be to transfer your Capital One miles to one of their airline transfer partners, then book the flight on their website using your points. 

If you did this, those 75k miles could become 75k FlyingBlue points (Air France & KLM’s loyalty program and one of Capital One’s transfer partners). 

The same exact flight booked on Air France with cash would cost you $1,142.

But, you can transfer your points from Capital One and over to FlyingBlue, so now you have up to 75k FlyingBlue miles! Let’s use them!

If you use FlyingBlue to book the exact same flight, you would only need 30,000 miles and $208 in taxes & fees. Way better than using all 75k and only covering half of the cost!

And, instead of paying $1,142 out of pocket for a round trip ticket to Europe, you’re only paying $208 plus 30,000 points .

*you want to transfer only the amount of points you need. In this scenario, thats only 30k of the 75k.

In this scenario, you would be redeeming your Capital One points, through FlyingBlue, for 3.1cents per mile. Now that’s more like it!

This is why points can be so valuable and why transfer partners can be the best way to go when redeeming points.

I know that was a lot, so let me summarize if for you:

• Out of pocket price for ticket Atlanta to Athens: $1142 on Air France/KLM
• Price of same ticket booked through Capital One Travel: 75k miles + $392
• Price of same ticket booked through FlyingBlue after transferring Capital One miles: 30,000 miles + $208 in taxes and fees.

You would come out of this deal with around 45k Capital One miles left in the bank. That’s enough to buy you another roundtrip flight to Europe.

Now THAT’S how we use points and miles to our advantage 🙂 

RESOURCE: Free List of Transfer Partners & Airline Alliances + How to Use Them

*be sure to only transfer the points you need and no more so you can keep the extra points with your bank and transfer them elsewhere in the future*

How Do You Redeem Points And Miles For Flights?

The way that we typically redeem our points and miles is by using them to purchase flights. We do this by transferring our credit card points to transfer partners. 

The scenario above is a great example of how we would use our points and miles to get amazing deals on flights.

Here is that chart again that I made to show you where you can transfer points based on what program you’ve accumulated points with. 

The process of transferring points can be a bit complicated, but I’m going to help you out here. 

Here is the basic rundown of how to redeem your points for flights:

• Accumulate points on your credit card
• Research credit card airlines transfer partners
• Search Google Flights or Skyscanner to find flight routes
• Search for award flights on airline transfer partners
• Find desired flights and see how many points/money required to book them
• Create a frequent flier account with airline if you don’t already have one
• Transfer points on your bank’s website to transfer partner of choice
• Book those flights!!

To use the example from above, I would find the flights I want and make sure I have enough points to pay for them. Then, I would log into Capital One and go to the Capital One Travel portal to transfer my points to FlyingBlue. Once my points were transferred, I would buy my flights!

The real trick is finding award flight availability and the deals that are out there waiting to be had! It takes a little bit of time and practice but you’ll get the gist!

READ ALSO: How to Save Money for Travel – Budget & Save for Your Next Trip Our Once In A Lifetime 6 Month Trip Itinerary What 6 Months of Travel to 18 Countries Cost Us

What Travel Credit Cards Are Best?

For me to answer this question, you’ll need to ask yourself a question first: what are your goals?

Are you looking to cover some international long haul flights? Maybe you’re an avid domestic traveler and would like to cover a few legs of travel for your upcoming trips. Would you like to stay in nice hotels for just the cost of fees?

It’s good to look at the options and decide what you think will work best for your goals!

If you want to cover some flights, I would find a card that has great travel benefits and flexible rewards. If you’re more interested in hotel stays, get a hotel branded card!

You can find my favorite travel credit cards and all the information about them on my Travel Credit Cards Recommendations page.

“Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.”

The Itinerary

It’s important to know the itinerary we followed to give you context for how much it costs to travel Scotland. I’ll give you a quick rundown of our itinerary, however you should read our entire one week road trip itinerary to get more details!

Edinburgh – 1 day

Inverness -1 day

Isle of Skye – 3 days

Glencoe – 1 day

Glasgow – 1 day

READ ALSO: Epic One Week Scotland Road Trip Itinerary 2 Days in Edinburgh Scotland: The Perfect Itinerary Travel Credit Cards: Our Secret To Affordable Flights All Over The World

Now, some of these days were more of travel days, or we saw most of the sights that day as we drove to our next location. I feel that may be the best way to fit everything worth seeing in Scotland into a week schedule!

I recommend that you fly into Edinburgh to start as it has the largest airport and is typically the least expensive to fly in to. However, I have seen deals pop up to fly into Inverness in the north. This would also be a great place to start!

The Best Time To Visit Scotland

Your budget might impact when you choose to visit Scotland, as prices can vary a lot based on time of year. The main tourist season in Scotland is June, July, August, where you’ll find higher prices. The off-season, the winter months, will see lower prices. However, there are a few considerations for both.

In the Summer, you’ll find longer days, more activities like Highland games, and more options open for accommodations and dining. The trade off is higher prices and crowds.

Winter in Scotland comes with shorter days, colder weather, and sometimes closed shops and restaurants. However, you’ll find less crowds, you might see the Highlands in snow (magical!), and experience Edinburgh’s great Christmas markets. Of course, you’ll also find lower prices. This is when we visited Scotland, and we absolutely loved it!

In general, there is no bad time to visit Scotland, just preference!

Because of this, I’ve given you our actual costs from our trip to Scotland in December, plus ballpark estimates for Summer costs.

Our Travel and Spending Style

I like to call our travel style ‘mid-range’ or just ‘affordable’. 

We don’t spend a ton of money on hotels and food, we skip some activities that don’t interest us, but we do spend money on great experiences. 

We typically eat out at every meal (except maybe breakfast and lunch depending on the day). Generally, we use public transportation unless a rental car is much easier, which it was in Scotland. 

On top of that, we try to find free activities as often as possible. 

I tell you all of that so you have a reference point of how we spend our money when we travel, to give you an idea of what you may spend.

The Cost to Travel Scotland – Winter & Summer

We visited in December, which is important to know! December is off-season in Scotland, so our hotel prices were much lower than they may be during the summer months.

The numbers I’m providing from our trip come from the costs to visit in December, which is the off-season in Scotland. I will also provide a breakdown of the ballpark costs to visit in Summer.

Summer will naturally be a more expensive time to visit Scotland as it is the high tourist season. So, here are the prices you can expect to find in Scotland during the Summer. All prices assume 2 people, shared accommodations.

June, July, and August are the peak Summer months in Scotland and see higher prices. Scotland’s low season is November to March, seeing lower prices and shorter days.

This outline will give you the approximate costs you can expect if you are visiting in the Summer & Winter. It will however, provide insights from our time visiting in Winter.

ALL PRICES ASSUME TWO PEOPLE, SHARED ACCOMMODATIONS.

Winter cost: $33USD/day Summer estimated cost: $52USD/day

We rented our car from Sixt , and we had an amazing experience. We were even given a free upgrade simply because they did not have any ‘economy’ cars left on the lot. If you rent a car in Scotland, or anywhere where Sixt is an option, we highly recommend them. 

Accommodations

Winter cost: $60-$85USD/night Summer estimated cost: $120-$200USD/night

During our one week Scotland road trip, we spent $613.05 on accommodation. 

The per night accommodation price ranged from $60/night to $85/night.

Of course, accommodation prices can vary a lot based on the level of luxury, or lack there of. Scotland has a great mix of accommodations from luxurious castles all the way to free hike in&out bothy’s that are first come first serve. We land somewhere in the middle.

In the Summer, expect to pay more for accommodations, and know that the good places get booked up quickly. I recommend planning your accommodations as far out as possible.

While we usually stay in hotels when we travel, we stayed in a mix of both Airbnb’s and hotels during this trip. That is why I always check both Booking.com and Airbnb and then compare when looking for a place to stay!

In the week we were there, we stayed in 7 different places! This is because we ended up staying an extra day on either end of the week-long trip since we were traveling long-term on our 6 month trip to 18 countries . So, I did subtract the cost of the accommodations outside of the 7 day trip length.  

Here are the places we stayed in and highly recommend!

Edinburgh – This Airbnb

Inverness – Crown Court Hotel

Roag – Malcolm’s House

Portree – The Portree Hotel

Fort William – Alt-an Lodge

Glasgow – Yotel Glasgow

Winter cost: $80USD/day for 2 people Summer estimated cost: $100USD/day for 2 people

The total cost of our food for 2 people, 7 days in Scotland, was $566.39 .

Like I mentioned above when I talked about our travel style, we eat out for most meals when we travel. However, much of Scotland is remote, and it can be a bit harder to find a spot to eat for every meal. So, we went to the grocery story and purchased some breakfast and lunch food to keep at our hotels/Airbnb’s and in the car. 

We often have picnic lunches to save money and time when we travel, so that is mostly what we did in Scotland. Some mornings, we would stop and get a coffee if our accommodations didn’t have it (or had bad coffee).

When we eat out, we try to find pretty middle-of-the-road type places, nothing fancy.

Winter cost: $11USD/day for 2 people Summer estimated cost: $35USD/day for 2 people

In total, we spent $79.91 on activities during our one week in Scotland.

Typically, we like to choose free activities unless there is something we really want to do that costs money.

In Scotland, we really wanted to visit Edinburgh Castle, and we ended up at another castle that we decided to pay to enter as well!

• Edinburgh Castle: $23.97/person
• Urquhart Castle: $15.98/person

The prices of our tickets are adjusted into USD.

Other than that, all of our activities were free!

The majority of our free activities involved hiking or seeing sites like Neist Point. You can read about all of the activities we did and where they were in our full one week Scotland road trip itinerary.

There are some Summer activities that you may want to participate in that we were not able to in the Winter. Those might include the Highland Games, riding the Jacobite Steam Train, or taking a ferry day trip to Isle of Mull. Here are the estimated ticket costs for each:

– Highland Games: varies based on event. $15-$35USD range – Jacobite Steam Train: £65 return adult ticket – Ferry Trip to Isle of Mull: £4.25

Scotland Road Trip Total Costs

In total, we spent $1,492.35 USD on our one week Scotland road trip, for 2 people in DECEMBER .

If you had done the same trip we did in the height of Summer, you could expect to pay around $2,600+ USD. This is a conservative estimate, in my opinion. Everything tends to become more expensive in Summer in Scotland.

All in all, I think that is a pretty good cost when you consider that traveling in the UK is often more expensive if you’re an American because of exchange rates.

Let me know what you think about the cost to travel Scotland from our experience! Did it convince you to travel in the shoulder season or off season to save some money?

What it will cost to travel Scotland will of course entirely depend on the person and time of year you visit, but I hope this has been a helpful reference point for you to plan your trip!

About Nikki Gibson

Nikki is a traveler, photographer, wife, and blogger. After she and her husband left their jobs and took a 6 month sabbatical trip to Europe and Asia, Nikki is writing about their travel experiences and sharing travel guides, tips, and tidbits.

Reader Interactions

February 29, 2024 at 8:37 pm

I am really interested in taking my Finance to Scottland I have enjoyed your artical and all your advise do you think prices have changed much to go in 2024?

March 18, 2024 at 3:24 pm

Prices probably have gone up since we went, and on top of that we visited in the off season. The easiest way to get an idea of what you may spend is by looking at hotels, flights, rental cars all around when you want to go and just see what they are going for.

March 16, 2024 at 9:55 pm

Your breakdown and rationale has helped me with my decision to surprise my husband with a trip to Scotland. He is a Findlay with traceable origins to Scotland, so he will enjoy this trip into his roots, and of course I will too!

March 18, 2024 at 3:20 pm

That sounds incredible! I’m so glad I could help you decide 🙂 I don’t think you’ll ever regret a trip to Scotland, especially if you have roots there! Enjoy!

May 26, 2024 at 4:02 pm

Hello, my name is Carol I live in California, USA. We are very interested in traveling to Scotland and found your article very informative. What’s the best way to contact you and/or follow you? I only have FB and Instagram accounts.

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Edinburgh price guide | calculating the daily costs to visit edinburgh.

The daily costs to visit Edinburgh. How to estimate your budget for food, hostels, hotels, attractions, alcohol & more.

Edinburgh is a beautiful city that has plenty of options for budget travelers—except when prices are jacked up during the multi-week Edinburgh Festival each August. Many of the museums are free but other attractions can be pretty expensive. Food and drink can be affordable if you know where to look.

In this Edinburgh price guide, we’ll outline the estimated travel expenses for food, accommodation, attractions, alcohol, and other things to help you budget your trip to Edinburgh.

This Edinburgh Price Guide is part of our  City Price Guide Series  where we break down the travel costs of Europe’s most popular cities.

Average Daily Cost To Visit Edinburgh

For budget-minded travelers, it costs around £45-£90 per day to visit Edinburgh. These prices are based on what you’ll need to visit the city comfortably as a budget traveler.

If you want to upgrade your accommodations, add another £60-£85 per night depending on your hotel choice. These prices also don’t include things like big nights out at the bar/pub, club entry fees, souvenir/clothing shopping, tours, random purchases, nicer food, etc.  Don’t forget to budget extra for those “non-essentials.”

Daily Cost of Budget Travel in Edinburgh: £85 (Approx. $100)

• Attractions: £18 (one paid attraction + any free sights)
• Breakfast: £5
• Dinner: £16
• Treat (dessert/beer/wine): £4
• Transportation: £1.50
• Accommodation (hostel): £32

Daily Cost of Frugal Travel in Edinburgh: £43 (Approx. $54)

• Attractions: £5 (free walking tour + visit one of the free sights)
• Breakfast: £0 (free hostel breakfast)
• Lunch: £6 (ethnic street food, takeaway shop fare, or similar)
• Dinner: £9 (make your own meal in the hostel or grab something cheap)
• Beer (pint): £3
• Transportation: £0 (the city is very walkable)
• Accommodation: £20 (cheap hostel bed)

Edinburgh Attraction and Museum Prices

National museums are free, but nearly every other attraction is pricey. Edinburgh is a compact city, so taking a stroll around is a great free activity.

• Edinburgh Castle : £18.50 (+£3.50 for an audioguide)
• National Gallery of Scotland : Free
• Arthur’s Seat : Free
• Royal Yacht Britannia : £18.50
• National Museum of Scotland : Free
• Saint Giles Cathedral : Free (£3 suggested donation) & £2 for a photography permit
• The Scotch Whiskey Experience: £21-£34 (includes one dram of Scotch Malt Whiskey)
• Day trip to Loch Ness: £42-£52
• Walking tours: Free (but you should tip the guides) — £9-£20+ (for paid tours)
• Bike tour: £20-£50

Edinburgh Food Prices

Food in Edinburgh wouldn’t be too bad if it wasn’t for the British Pound—but you can still eat without spending a ton. Like always, venture to where the locals eat to get the best deal and quality food. Also, you need to try some fine scotch, so set aside a little money for a tasting (a tour will run from £20-£40, depending on how much scotch you want to sample).

Read more of our strategies for Eating and Drinking in Europe on a Budget .

Budget Breakfast Prices in Edinburgh: Free – £10

• Many hostels will offer a free simple breakfast that normally consists of cereal, bread/croissant, and maybe milk, coffee, tea, or juice (some hostels will offer more and some less).
• Filled roll & coffee/tea: £4-£7
• Porridge: £3.50-£6
• Full Scottish breakfast: £8-£16

Budget-Friendly Breakfast Places:

• Singapore Coffee House : This tiny cafe serves up all kinds of tasty breakfast dishes.
• The Haven Cafe : Stop in for a proper traditional Scottish fry-up breakfast.
• Tani Modi : Another breakfast place that offers great value for the money.
• Sicilian Pastry Shop : A wide range of delicious pastries.

Budget Lunch Prices in Edinburgh: £3-£8

• Super budget travelers can make a super cheap lunch of bread, cheese, and fruit from any grocery store for a few euros.
• Sandwich: £5-£9
• Scotch pie/bridie (meat pastry): £3-£7
• Haggis: £5-£9
• Curry: £5-£9
• Cheap takeaway meals (like a kebab with fries): £5-£9

Budget Dinner Prices in Edinburgh: £8-£18

• Fish & chips: £10-£16
• Bangers & mash: £8-£12
• A burger and fries will cost around £6-£9
• You should also be able to find dinner at a restaurant in a less touristy part of town for around £15.
• Many of the options from the Budget Lunch section above also apply to dinner.

Budget-Friendly Lunch and Dinner Places:

• The Piemaker : Traditional savory Scottish pies.
• Tupiniquim Brasil : Edinburgh’s  Brazil -in-a-Box serving sweet and savory gluten-free  crepes  since 2010.
• Tempting Tattie : Filling and tasty baked potatoes.
• Pizzeria 1926 : A nice pizza place serving traditional Neapolitan pizza.
• Taste of Italy : Plenty of Italian dishes from pasta to pizza.
• The Pakora Bar : A much-loved Indian joint.
• The City Restaurant : A popular spot for fish & chips.
• The Black Rose : Traditional pub grub.
• The Standing Order : Beer and pub food.
• Snax Cafe : Brunch and all-day breakfast.

Drinks and Alcohol Prices in Edinburgh

• Pint of standard beer: £3.50
• Pint of beer from a grocery store: £1.60
• Bottle of (drinkable) wine from the grocery store: £7.50
• Cup of coffee: £2.50
• Irn Bru (soft drink) from the grocery store: £1

Edinburgh Transportation Prices

Lothian (city) buses are your best bet for getting around Edinburgh if you don’t feel like walking or if you’re staying a bit outside of the city center. They also have a tram line that runs between the city center and the airport. I stayed in the city center so I never used public transportation and you might not either.

• Single journey: £1.80
• Day pass: £4.50
• Tram from the airport to the city center: £6.50 (£9 roundtrip)
• Taxi from airport to city: £22-£26

Edinburgh Hostel, Hotel, & Rental Apartment Prices

Accommodation in Edinburgh is fairly affordable by Western Europe standards. Prices shoot up during August because of the Edinburgh festival.

Hostel Prices in Edinburgh: £18-£40/night

You should budget about £28/night per person for a decent hostel—although many hostels raise their prices on the weekend. Remember, these prices are for a bed in a shared dorm room. Expect to pay £75-£100/night for a private room.

Recommended Hostels in Edinburgh [Check out my complete guide to the Best Hostels in Edinburgh ]

• Castle Rock Hostel
• Royal Mile Backpackers
• High Street Hostel
• Kick Ass Greyfriars
• Edinburgh Backpackers

We book our hostels through Hostelworld  because they have the best selection of hostels.

Budget Hotels Prices in Edinburgh: £85-£150/night

Budget hotels in Edinburgh start around £85-£100/night but you’ll likely have to pay closer to £115-£130/night if you want to be in the center of town.

We suggest checking out  Booking.com  to see hotel prices for your dates since they’re always changing.

Rental Apartment Prices in Edinburgh: £95-£150+/night

Edinburgh has a decent amount of rental apartments throughout the city. They can be a good option for large groups or travelers who want a little more space (and a kitchen). On the other hand, you may also have to deal with inconvenient check-in processes and things like extra cleaning fees and service charges. For short stays, we prefer hotels/hostels but rental apartments can be a nice option for longer stays. Airbnb is always popular but you can sometimes find cheaper/better options on our list of  Airbnb Alternatives .

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COST TO VISIT EUROPE

Check out our guide on  How Much It Costs To Backpack Europe  to learn more about budgeting your entire trip (including many more city price guides).

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Scotland budget: costs and prices of a road trip through Scotland.

How expensive is a road trip through Scotland? In this blog, we will answer the question of how much money our ten-day holiday in Scotland. We also tell you what a realistic daily budget for Scotland is and how high the prices are in Scotland!

What does a trip to Scotland costs?

A holiday to Scotland does not have to be expensive at all. Our trip through Scotland per campervan cost 72 euros per day per person and this could have been even cheaper. That said, Scotland is in Europe, so expect to pay European prices. Groceries are priced about the same as in the Netherlands, gasoline and diesel too. Overnight stays are not cheap, but camping keeps costs low.

Keep in mind that the pound was very favourable at the time of our trip, perhaps this will change in a while. We also travelled in low season (April), so prices of campsites and the campervan were low.

What is a realistic daily budget for Scotland?

As a backpacker , a trip through Scotland is realistic for an amount of 50 euros per person per day . This daily budget for Scotland includes travel by public transport, sleeping in hostels and cooking as much as possible.

Do you have a larger budget ? Then 125 euros per person per day is a large daily budget for Scotland. For this, you sleep in nice hotels and B & Bs, eat outside and travel by car.

Note : these daily budgets for Scotland do not include airline tickets.

What is the price of flying to Scotland?

Flying (from Europe) to Scotland can be very cheap if you book on time. But it is of course also possible to travel to Scotland by train, boat or car (from Europe). This is not always cheaper, but a lot better for the environment. Click here for the most recent flight deals to Scotland!

Read on to see our exact spendings during this holiday in Scotland and to find useful budget tips to make your holiday to Scotland cheaper!

What were our total spendings in Scotland?

First a disclaimer : Everyone travels in his own way and has different priorities. That is completely fine, but keep this in mind when you read through our expenses. It can always be more expensive or cheaper!

We made a ten-day trip through Scotland , of which we spent two days in Edinburgh and then we made a road trip through the Scottish Highlands. We travelled by campervan. Sometimes we camped campsites, other times we went free camping. During this trip, we kept costs low by cooking a lot ourselves, this way we stayed within budget. The biggest expenses were the campervan and gasoline.

During this trip, we had collaborations which resulted in discounts on activities or transportation. I didn’t include these discounts in the calculation below since I want to give a representative picture of the actual prices in Scotland.

Budget facts for our trip through Scotland

Total spend in Scotland: £1255,74 / €1445,58  / $1624,52 Spendings per person: £627,87 / €722,79  / $812,26 Spendings per day in Scotland: £125,57 / €144,56  / $162,45

These expenses do not include airline tickets and are based on two people. I have calculated the prices and exchange rates Pound / Euro and Euro / Dollar at the time of this trip (April 2019). The currencies displayed are Pound (£), Euro (€) and USA Dollar ($).

Prices of accommodation in Scotland – 14% of the total budget  of Scotland

Accommodations are generally not cheap in Scotland. But since we were travelling with a campervan, we saved a lot of money on this. We paid for a camping spot between £ 16 and £ 20 (this may be more in high season, we generally had non-electrical spots). We went two nights free camping/ wild camping. These nights were therefore for free.

Is wild camping or freedom camping allowed in Scotland?

Wild camping (or actually free camping) is generally tolerated in Scotland and you can stay at the most beautiful places (read this article that explains what is and is not allowed during free camping). The only drawback (for us) is that you don’t have a hot shower or toilets in the area. During those cold April mornings, this was something we missed a lot.

How expensive is travelling around in Scotland? – 21% of the total  budget of Scotland

Mega budget tip: currently the campervan rental company Spaceships had an Early Bird discount deal which gives you 10% discount on renting a campervan when you travel before the 20th of June 2023. Click here for more information and to book directly!

How much money to budget for a campervan in Scotland? – 40% of the total  budget of Scotland

Should I put the costs of the campervan under accommodation or under transport costs? In the end, I chose, to make a separate category, just as I did in the blog on our New Zealand budget .

What is the price of campervan hire in Scotland?

At £37 per day our campervan itself is not expensive (we travelled in low season, prices are higher in high season). On top of this, we took the full insurance and when we had a car breakdown we were very happy with this. We also opted for extra options such as bedding (£ 20), a table and chairs (£ 20) and the winter warmer packet (£ 25). The latter contained extra gas bottles and a heater, in retrospect, we did not use them at all so that was not necessary.

By travelling with a campervan, I think we have made our road trip considerably cheaper. We needed a car anyway and there is not much difference in price between a normal car or a Spaceships Campervan .

Tip: do you know that you can also come to Scotland by ferry . This way you can bring your own car. There is a daily ferry from IJmuiden to Newcastle from where it is only a few hours drive to Edinburgh. Click here for more information!

What to spend on food and going out in Scotland? – 19% of the total  budget of Scotland

Are you planning on making a road trip through Scotland? Then check out this Scotland itinerary for 1-2 weeks!

Are activities expensive in Scotland? – 6% of the total  budget of Scotland

Prices of food and general expenses in scotland.

What is the price level in Scotland? I answer that question below by displaying the prices of normal food and expenses during a trip.

• Kilo apples: £1,85 / €2,13  / $2,39
• 150 ml olive oil:  £1,30 / €1,49  / $1,68
• Bag of potato chips:  £2 / €2,30  / $2,59
• Kilo bananas:  £2,05 / €2,36  / $2,65
• Bowl of Yogurt (1L) : £1,90 / €2,18  / $2,46
• Bread : £1,10 / €1,26  / $1,42
• Avocado : £1,10 / €1,26  / $1,42
• Bottle of milk (2.2L): £1,09 / €1,24  / $1,40
• Coke (1L): £1,70 / €1,96  / $2,19
• Water (2L): £0,45 / €0,52  / $0,58
• Wine in the supermarket (750 ml): £6,50 / €7,48  / $8,41
• Bottle of beer in the supermarket: £1 / €1,15  / $1,29
• Shampoo: £2 / €2,30  / $2,59
• Cappuccino: £3 / €3,45  / $3,88
• Glass of wine in a restaurant : £4 / €4,60  / $5,17
• Local beer in a restaurant: £3 / €3,45  / $3,88
• Simpel lunch/dinner(1 pers):   £25 / €28,78  / $32,34
• 1 Liter diesel: £1,36 / €1,57  / $1,76

Is Scotland an expensive destination?

For a European destination, a road trip through Scotland is not expensive. Now do keep in mind, we have paid careful attention to our budget. On the other hand, we were not so strict that we left things we wanted to do because of the expenses. Scotland as a destination itself is not too expensive, but what can make your trip through Scotland expensive is eating out. However, when you cook as much as possible yourself, then those costs are not too bad.

Is Scotland a good backpack destination?

It is certainly possible to travel through Scotland as a backpacker. Thanks to the good train connections and available hostels, Scotland is a possible budget destination in Europe. Please note, prices are of course much higher than a backpacking trip to Southeast Asia.

What is a realistic daily budget for Scotland? – Backpacker style

Do you travel through Scotland by backpack? Then take into account a budget of 50 euros per day per person. For this, you sleep in hostels and sometimes a cheap guesthouse, cook as much as possible yourself and travel by public transport. Activities mainly consist of free activities such as hiking or free museums.

Is a road trip through Scotland expensive?

A road trip through Scotland doesn’t have to be expensive at all. Especially when you sleep in your car (a camper or campervan), the costs are quite low. Campsites generally cost between 15 and 30 pounds, but wild camping is also permitted. Cooking yourself during your road trip also ensures that you won’t exceed your Scotland budget.

Free guide: all you need to know about road tripping and  camping in Scotland !

What is a realistic daily budget for Scotland? – Roadtrip style

Are you taking a road trip through Scotland? Then take into account a budget of 80 euros per day per person. For this you will travel in a cheap car/campervan (with your own car the price will be lower), you cook a lot yourself and you often sleep on campsites.

What is a realistic daily budget for Scotland? – B&B travel style

The best hotels in Scotland , unique castles to stay and pretty B&Bs can be found in this blog!

Some tips to make your holiday to Scotland cheaper:

Hereby some budget tips to save money on your trip through Scotland!

1. Travel by public transport . The train connection, in particular, is good and not that expensive at all.

2. Travel with a (budget) campervan. In this way, you immediately arranged your transport and accommodation. Campsites don’t have to be very expensive and it is also possible to camp wild in Scotland. You are also a lot cheaper when it comes to eating and eating out. You can cook well yourself.

3. Book your accommodation, transport and tickets on time! This is how you get early bird discounts in Scotland!

4. Visit Scotland outside the high season. If you travel to Scotland outside the high season (from June to September), the prices are much lower! We travelled in April, a good time (outside of Easter) because you are just before the high summer season, but already have warm days!

Click here for more blogs on Scotland !

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• Travel Guide

How Much Does A 10-Day Trip To Scotland Cost?

Published: November 19, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Amalie Mcclary

• Budget Travel
• Travel Destinations

Introduction

Welcome to the captivating land of Scotland! Known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Scotland is a must-visit destination for travelers around the world. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or whisky lover, Scotland has something to offer for everyone.

A 10-day trip to Scotland allows you to dive deep into the heart of this enchanting country, exploring its picturesque cities, charming villages, and breathtaking countryside. From the iconic Edinburgh Castle to the mystical Isle of Skye, there are countless treasures to discover and memories to be made.

Before embarking on your Scottish adventure, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the cost involved. This comprehensive guide will provide you with insights into the average expenses you can expect during a 10-day trip to Scotland, helping you plan your budget accordingly.

It’s worth noting that the cost of a trip to Scotland can vary depending on factors such as the season of travel, accommodation choices, dining preferences, and the activities you wish to partake in. However, this guide will offer you a general overview to help you estimate your expenses and make informed decisions.

So, let’s delve into the different aspects of your trip to Scotland and explore the costs associated with transportation, accommodation, food and drink, sightseeing, activities, and additional expenses. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clearer picture of how much a 10-day trip to Scotland may cost and be well-prepared to embark on your Scottish adventure. Let’s get started!

Transportation Costs

Getting around Scotland during your 10-day trip will involve various modes of transportation. Here’s a breakdown of the potential transportation costs:

1. Flights: If you’re traveling from abroad, the cost of your flights to and from Scotland will be a significant part of your transportation expenses. The price of flights can vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book.

2. Local Transportation: Once you arrive in Scotland, you’ll need to consider the cost of getting around within the country. Public transportation, such as trains and buses, is a convenient and affordable option. The cost of train tickets between major cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness can range from £10 to £50, depending on the distance and time of travel. Bus fares within cities typically range from £1 to £3 per trip.

3. Car Rental: If you prefer the flexibility and convenience of having your own vehicle, renting a car is a popular choice for exploring Scotland. The cost of car rental can vary depending on the type of car, rental duration, and insurance options. On average, you can expect to pay around £30 to £70 per day for a standard car rental.

4. Fuel Costs: If you plan on driving a rental car or hiring a taxi for your travel, it’s essential to factor in the cost of fuel. As of [current year], the average price of unleaded petrol in Scotland is around £1.20 to £1.30 per liter.

5. Taxis: Taxis are available in most Scottish cities and can be a convenient way to get around, especially for shorter distances or when traveling with luggage. The cost of a taxi ride will depend on the distance traveled and any additional charges, such as late-night surcharges or extra baggage fees.

6. Ferries: If you plan on visiting Scotland’s islands, such as the Isle of Skye or the Outer Hebrides, you may need to take a ferry. Ferry prices can vary depending on the route, duration, and whether you’re traveling as a foot passenger or with a vehicle. Prices for ferry tickets typically range from £10 to £30 per person.

By estimating the cost of your flights, local transportation, car rental, fuel, and any necessary ferry rides, you’ll get a clearer picture of your transportation expenses. Keep in mind that prices are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the latest rates and book in advance to secure the best deals.

Accommodation Costs

During your 10-day trip to Scotland, finding suitable accommodation is an essential aspect of your travel planning. Scotland offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here’s an overview of the accommodation costs you can expect:

1. Hotels: Scotland boasts a variety of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury establishments. The cost of hotels can vary depending on the location, amenities, and time of year. On average, you can expect to pay £80 to £150 per night for a mid-range hotel room. However, prices can go higher during peak tourist seasons or in popular cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow.

2. Bed and Breakfast (B&B): B&Bs are a popular choice in Scotland, offering a cozy and personalized experience. They often include a traditional Scottish breakfast in the room rate. The cost of a B&B can range from £50 to £100 per night, depending on the location and facilities provided.

3. Guesthouses: Guesthouses or small inns are another accommodation option in Scotland. They typically offer comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. Prices for guesthouses can vary, starting from around £40 to £80 per night.

4. Self-Catering Apartments: If you prefer more independence and the ability to cook your own meals, self-catering apartments or holiday rentals can be a great option. These accommodations come with a kitchenette or fully equipped kitchen, allowing you to save money on dining expenses. Prices for self-catering apartments can range from £60 to £150 per night, depending on the location and size of the apartment.

5. Hostels: For budget travelers or those looking to meet fellow backpackers, hostels are a cost-effective choice. Scotland has numerous hostels with dormitory-style rooms and shared facilities. Prices for hostel beds can range from £15 to £30 per night, depending on the location and season.

When booking accommodation, it’s essential to consider factors such as location, amenities, and reviews to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Additionally, it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.

By understanding the different accommodation options and the associated costs, you can plan and allocate your budget accordingly, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay during your 10-day trip to Scotland.

Food and Drink Costs

Exploring the culinary delights of Scotland is an essential part of any trip to the country. From traditional Scottish dishes to international cuisine, there is a wide range of options to satisfy your taste buds during your 10-day trip. Here’s an overview of the food and drink costs you can expect in Scotland:

1. Dining Out: The cost of dining out in Scotland can vary depending on the type of restaurant and location. On average, a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Scotland can cost between £10 to £20 per person for lunch, and £20 to £40 per person for dinner, excluding drinks. Fine dining establishments and restaurants in popular tourist areas may have higher prices.

2. Local Pubs and Cafes: Traditional Scottish pubs and cozy cafes offer a more casual dining experience. Prices for pub meals and light bites can range from £6 to £15 per dish. It’s worth trying some classic Scottish dishes like haggis, fish and chips, and a hearty plate of neeps and tatties.

3. Grocery Shopping: If you’re on a budget or prefer to cook your meals, grocery shopping can be a cost-effective option. Supermarkets and local grocery stores offer a wide range of fresh produce, bread, snacks, and ready-made meals. On average, you can expect to spend around £40 to £70 per week on groceries, depending on your dietary preferences and the number of meals you plan to cook.

4. Drinks: Scotland is famous for its whisky, and it’s worth indulging in a tasting experience during your trip. The cost of a whisky tasting can vary depending on the distillery and the number of whisky samples included. Prices typically range from £10 to £25 per person. Additionally, bear in mind the cost of other beverages such as soft drinks, coffee, and alcoholic drinks like beer and wine when dining out.

When planning your dining experiences in Scotland, it’s advisable to mix both restaurant meals and local food experiences to get a taste of the country’s culinary heritage while managing your budget.

Remember to also consider leaving room in your budget for the occasional treat or trying local delicacies that may be slightly more expensive. Scotland offers a fantastic gastronomic scene, and exploring the food and drink options is an integral part of immersing yourself in the country’s culture.

Sightseeing and Activities Costs

Scotland is a land rich in history, breathtaking landscapes, and fascinating cultural attractions. Exploring the sights and engaging in various activities is a highlight of any trip to Scotland. Here’s an overview of the sightseeing and activity costs you can expect during your 10-day trip:

1. Historical Sites and Museums: Scotland is home to numerous historical sites and museums that offer insights into its rich heritage. Entry fees can vary depending on the attraction. For example, the Edinburgh Castle admission fee is around £20 per adult, while other sites like the Scottish National Gallery may have free entry. It’s advisable to check the official websites for updated ticket prices and any discounts available for students or seniors.

2. Guided Tours: Joining guided tours can be a fantastic way to discover Scotland’s hidden gems and learn from knowledgeable local guides. The cost of guided tours can range from around £30 to £100 per person, depending on the duration and itinerary. Popular tours include the Isle of Skye tour, Highland tours, and city walking tours.

3. Outdoor Adventures: Scotland’s stunning landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether it’s hiking in the Highlands, kayaking on the lochs, or cycling through picturesque trails, the cost of outdoor adventures can vary. Some activities, like hiking trails, may be free, while others may require equipment rental or guide fees. Prices can range from £10 to £50 per person, depending on the activity and duration.

4. Entertainment and Events: Scotland hosts various festivals, concerts, and cultural events throughout the year. The cost of entertainment and event tickets can vary widely. It’s recommended to check the official event websites or consult local tourist information centers for ticket prices and availability.

5. Wildlife Excursions: Scotland is known for its diverse wildlife, including seals, puffins, and even the elusive Highland cows. Joining wildlife excursions or boat trips can provide opportunities to spot these magnificent creatures. Prices for wildlife excursions typically range from £20 to £50 per person, depending on the duration and location.

When planning your sightseeing and activity itinerary, it’s important to research the various options available and allocate a portion of your budget for entry fees, tours, equipment rental, and any additional costs associated with the activities you wish to participate in. Remember to check for any discounts or package deals that may help you save money and make the most of your time in Scotland.

Exploring Scotland’s sights and engaging in activities is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the country’s beauty and vibrant culture, creating unforgettable memories during your 10-day trip.

Additional Expenses

While planning your 10-day trip to Scotland, it’s important to consider additional expenses that may arise during your journey. These expenses can vary depending on your personal preferences and travel style. Here are some common additional expenses to keep in mind:

1. Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance to provide coverage for any unexpected events or emergencies during your trip. The cost of travel insurance will depend on factors such as your age, duration of travel, and coverage options. It’s essential to carefully review your insurance policy to ensure it meets your needs and provides adequate protection.

2. Souvenirs: Scotland offers a wide range of unique souvenirs, including tartan scarves, kilts, whisky, and local crafts. Budgeting for souvenirs allows you to bring back a piece of Scotland’s charm and support local artisans. The cost of souvenirs will vary depending on your preferences and the items you choose to purchase.

3. Tipping: Tipping in Scotland is generally not as prevalent as in some other countries, but it is appreciated for exceptional service. If you receive excellent service at a restaurant or from a tour guide, leaving a small tip of around 10% is a kind gesture. Additionally, you may consider tipping hotel staff who go above and beyond to assist you during your stay.

4. Event Tickets: If you’re interested in attending specific events, concerts, or performances in Scotland, tickets may be an additional expense. Prices for event tickets can vary widely depending on the event, venue, and seat selection.

5. Personal Expenses: It’s essential to budget for personal expenses such as toiletries, medication, phone charges, and any other personal items you may require during your trip.

6. Service Charges: Some hotels and restaurants in Scotland may include a service charge in the bill. However, it’s always wise to review your bills and check for any additional service charges before adding extra tips.

It’s important to keep in mind that the additional expenses mentioned above are general guidelines and can vary depending on your personal choices and circumstances. Creating a buffer in your budget for these additional expenses ensures that you are prepared for any unforeseen costs during your 10-day trip to Scotland.

By considering these potential additional expenses and planning accordingly, you can have a more accurate estimation of the total cost of your Scottish adventure and avoid any financial surprises along the way.

Total Cost of a 10-Day Trip to Scotland

Calculating the total cost of a 10-day trip to Scotland can help you plan and budget effectively. While expenses can vary depending on factors such as travel preferences and the time of year, here’s a rough breakdown of the potential costs involved:

1. Transportation: The cost of flights to and from Scotland will depend on your location of departure and the time of year. On average, you can expect to spend between £300 to £800 per person for round-trip flights.

2. Accommodation: Accommodation costs will vary depending on your preferences, location, and the type of accommodation you choose. On average, budgeting around £600 to £1500 for 10 nights of accommodation should provide you with a range of options and comfort levels.

3. Food and Drink: Dining out at restaurants, enjoying local pubs, and budgeting for groceries and drinks can amount to approximately £300 to £600 for a 10-day trip, depending on your dining preferences and the number of meals you plan to eat out.

4. Sightseeing and Activities: Entry fees to historical sites, museum visits, guided tours, outdoor activities, and wildlife excursions can range from £100 to £400, depending on the number of attractions you visit and the activities you choose to participate in.

5. Additional Expenses: Including travel insurance, souvenirs, tipping, event tickets, and personal expenses, budgeting an additional £200 to £400 should cover these miscellaneous costs.

Adding up all of these estimated expenses, a rough total for a 10-day trip to Scotland can range from around £1,500 to £3,900 per person. Keep in mind that these figures are approximate and can vary based on individual choices, travel style, and currency exchange rates.

It’s recommended to create a detailed budget based on your specific travel plans and preferences. Researching prices, comparing options, and booking in advance can help you secure better deals and make the most of your budget.

By planning ahead and being mindful of your spending, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable 10-day trip to Scotland without breaking the bank.

A 10-day trip to Scotland offers an incredible opportunity to explore the country’s captivating landscapes, immerse yourself in its rich history, and indulge in its vibrant culture. While the cost of such a trip can vary based on personal preferences and travel style, we have provided a comprehensive overview of the potential expenses involved.

Transportation costs, including flights, local transportation, and car rentals, can form a significant portion of your budget. Accommodation costs depend on your preferences and range from budget-friendly options to luxury establishments. Food and drink costs can be managed by balancing dining out, trying local cuisine, and engaging in self-catering options.

Sightseeing and activities offer numerous opportunities to delve into Scotland’s history and natural beauty, and considering entry fees, guided tours, and outdoor adventures is essential. Additionally, it’s important to account for additional expenses such as travel insurance, souvenirs, tipping, and event tickets.

By estimating these costs and creating a budget based on your own travel plans and preferences, you can have a clearer understanding of the total cost of your 10-day trip to Scotland. However, it’s wise to account for unexpected expenses and create a buffer in your budget to ensure a stress-free journey.

Remember, while planning your trip, it’s not just about the numbers. Scotland is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Take the time to savor the breathtaking landscapes, immerse yourself in local traditions, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

So pack your bags, embark on your Scottish adventure, and immerse yourself in the magic that awaits you in the land of castles, ancient tales, and picturesque landscapes. Enjoy every moment of your 10-day trip to Scotland while staying mindful of your budget, and create memories that will stay with you for years to come.

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Expenses and benefits: travel and subsistence

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Home >> #realtalk Blog >> Manage a business >> San Diego Per Diem R…

San Diego Per Diem Rates: Complete List for 2024

You’ve got a business trip to San Diego coming up, and you’re wondering how to manage your expenses. Understanding per diem rates can help you budget effectively and avoid out-of-pocket costs. Let’s break down what per diem in San Diego entails and how it works.

Managing travel expenses can be a hassle, especially when you’re trying to adhere to company or federal guidelines. Knowing what per diem rates cover can make this process smoother and ensure you get reimbursed accurately.

What is Per Diem in San Diego?

Per diem is a daily allowance for expenses incurred while traveling for work. It covers meals, lodging, and incidental expenses like tips and transportation. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) sets these rates to standardize reimbursements for federal employees and contractors.

Example of Per Diem Expenses

• Meals : Breakfast, lunch, and dinner costs fall under this category.
• Lodging : Hotel or other accommodation expenses are included.
• Incidental expenses : Tips, local transportation, and other minor costs are covered.

Understanding these categories helps you plan your travel budget and ensures you get reimbursed accurately.

Navigating per diem rates can seem daunting, but it’s crucial for managing your travel budget efficiently. Let’s dive into how San Diego’s per diem works and why you should care.

TIP: For a better understanding of travel-related pay, check out this guide on travel time pay for hourly employees .

How Does San Diego’s Per Diem Work?

When you travel to San Diego for work, your employer reimburses you for travel expenses through per diem rates. These rates cover your daily costs for meals, lodging, and incidental expenses. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) sets these rates, and they can vary based on the location and time of year.

Employers use per diem rates to streamline the reimbursement process. Instead of submitting individual receipts for each meal or hotel stay, you receive a daily allowance. This simplifies accounting and ensures you get reimbursed quickly.

Rates vary depending on where you stay in San Diego and the time of year. For example, peak tourist seasons might have higher lodging rates. Always check the current rates before planning your trip to ensure you stay within the allowed budget.

To get reimbursed, you need to submit an expense report. This report should detail your travel dates, the per diem rates for each day, and any additional expenses. Your employer will then review and approve the report, reimbursing you according to the set rates. This process ensures you don’t have to cover work-related travel costs out of pocket.

TIP: Simplify your expense tracking by introducing time tracking to your employees.

Understanding the different per diem rates can help you plan better and ensure you’re fully reimbursed. Let’s explore the types of per diem rates in San Diego.

What are the Types of Per Diem Rates in San Diego?

Lodging per diem rate.

The lodging per diem rate covers the cost of your hotel or other accommodations while you’re in San Diego for work. This rate ensures you have a comfortable place to stay without having to pay out of pocket. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) sets these rates based on the average cost of lodging in the area. Depending on the time of year and specific location within San Diego, the lodging rate can vary. Always check the current rate before booking your stay to ensure it falls within the allowed per diem.

Meals and Incidental Expenses (M&IE) Per Diem Rate

The Meals and Incidental Expenses (M&IE) per diem rate covers your daily costs for meals and other minor expenses. This rate includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as incidental expenses like tips and local transportation. The GSA sets these rates to simplify the reimbursement process, so you don’t need to keep track of every meal receipt. The M&IE rate can vary depending on the location and time of year, so make sure to verify the current rate before your trip. This rate helps you manage your daily expenses without the hassle of detailed accounting.

Combined Per Diem Rate

The combined per diem rate includes both the lodging and M&IE rates, providing a comprehensive daily allowance for all your travel expenses. This rate simplifies budgeting and reimbursement, as it consolidates all your daily costs into a single figure. The combined rate varies based on the specific lodging and M&IE rates for San Diego, which can fluctuate throughout the year. By using the combined rate, you can easily calculate your total travel expenses and ensure you stay within the allowed budget. This approach streamlines the reimbursement process and helps you manage your finances more effectively.

TIP: Ensure accurate payroll by avoiding common payroll errors .

Knowing the per diem rates for 2024 can help you plan your trip to San Diego without financial surprises. Let’s look at what you can expect.

What are the San Diego Per Diem Rates for 2024?

When planning your work trip to San Diego, knowing the per diem rates for 2024 helps you manage your expenses effectively. These rates, set by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), vary based on location and time of year, ensuring they reflect the actual cost of living in different areas.

Rates Vary by Location and Time of Year

San Diego’s per diem rates adjust depending on where you stay and the season. For instance, lodging costs might be higher in popular tourist areas or during peak travel months. Always check the specific rates for your destination within San Diego to ensure you stay within the allowed budget.

TIP: Stay compliant with labor laws by understanding federal labor law breaks .

GSA Releases New Rates Annually

The GSA updates per diem rates every year to account for changes in the cost of living and other economic factors. This ensures that the rates remain fair and accurate, providing adequate reimbursement for your travel expenses. For 2024, the GSA has released updated rates for both lodging and meals and incidental expenses (M&IE).

M&IE Rate for San Diego in 2024: $74 per Day

The M&IE rate covers your daily costs for meals and incidental expenses, such as tips and local transportation. For 2024, the M&IE rate for San Diego is set at $74 per day. This rate ensures you can cover your food and minor expenses without needing to submit individual receipts for each meal.

Lodging Rate for San Diego in June 2024: $230 per Night

The lodging rate covers the cost of your hotel or other accommodations. For the first half of 2024, the lodging rate for San Diego was $194 per night. This rate has risen to $230 from June 2024. This rate reflects the average cost of lodging in the area, ensuring you can find comfortable accommodations without exceeding the per diem limit.

Understanding these rates helps you plan your travel budget and ensures you get reimbursed accurately for your expenses. Always check the current rates before your trip to stay within the allowed budget and avoid out-of-pocket costs.

TIP: For effective financial management, learn about creating an effective balance sheet .

Calculating per diem can seem tricky, but with the right steps, you can ensure you’re reimbursed properly. Let’s break down how to do it.

How to Calculate Per Diem in San Diego

Determine the applicable rates.

First, you need to know the current per diem rates for San Diego. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) updates these rates annually. Visit the GSA website to find the most recent rates for lodging and meals and incidental expenses (M&IE). Make sure you check the rates for the specific dates and locations of your travel, as they can vary.

TIP: Accurate time tracking is crucial. Learn about time clock rounding rules to ensure precision.

Calculate Total Per Diem

Once you have the applicable rates, calculating your total per diem is straightforward. Multiply the daily lodging rate by the number of nights you will stay. Do the same for the M&IE rate, multiplying it by the number of days you will be traveling. Add these two amounts together to get your total per diem. For example, if the lodging rate is $150 per night and the M&IE rate is $70 per day, and you are traveling for five days and four nights, your calculation would look like this:

• Lodging: $150 x 4 nights = $600
• M&IE: $70 x 5 days = $350
• Total Per Diem: $600 + $350 = $950

Adjust for First and Last Days of Travel

The GSA guidelines specify that the first and last days of travel are reimbursed at 75% of the M&IE rate. This adjustment accounts for partial travel days when you might not incur a full day’s worth of expenses. To calculate this, take the M&IE rate and multiply it by 0.75 for the first and last days. Using the previous example with an M&IE rate of $70:

• First Day: $70 x 0.75 = $52.50
• Last Day: $70 x 0.75 = $52.50

If your trip spans five days, with the first and last days being partial travel days, your total M&IE calculation would be:

• First Day: $52.50
• Last Day: $52.50
• Full Days: $70 x 3 days = $210
• Total M&IE: $52.50 + $52.50 + $210 = $315

Add this adjusted M&IE total to your lodging costs to get the final per diem amount. In this case:

• Lodging: $600
• Adjusted M&IE: $315
• Total Per Diem: $600 + $315 = $915

By following these steps, you can accurately calculate your per diem for a trip to San Diego, ensuring you stay within budget and receive proper reimbursement.

TIP: For more on managing employee schedules and travel, explore managing employee time off requests .

Need some tips to make the most out of your per diem in San Diego? Here’s how you can maximize your allowance.

Auto-convert timesheets into wages, catch errors, pay your team, and file taxes all in one place.

5 Tips for Maximizing Your San Diego Per Diem

Choose accommodations wisely.

Selecting the right accommodation can make a significant difference in staying within your per diem budget. Look for hotels that fall within the lodging per diem rate set by the GSA. Many booking websites allow you to filter options by price, making it easier to find suitable accommodations. Staying within the per diem rate ensures you won’t have to cover extra costs out of pocket. Additionally, consider the location of the hotel. Staying closer to your work site can reduce transportation costs, further maximizing your per diem allowance.

TIP: For hotel managers, using hotel management software solutions can streamline operations and reduce costs.

Plan Meals Carefully

Meals can quickly add up, but planning can help you stay within the M&IE rate. Many hotels offer complimentary breakfasts, which can save you a significant amount over the course of your stay. Take advantage of this perk whenever possible. For lunch and dinner, look for affordable dining options nearby. Researching local restaurants and cafes before your trip can help you find budget-friendly choices. If your hotel room includes a kitchenette, consider preparing some meals yourself. This not only saves money but also allows you to eat healthier options.

Keep Detailed Records

Maintaining detailed records of your expenses is crucial for accurate reimbursement. Save all receipts related to your meals, lodging, and incidental expenses. Use a dedicated folder or app to organize these receipts, making it easier to submit your expense report. Documenting your expenses helps ensure you receive the full per diem allowance and avoids any discrepancies during the reimbursement process. Additionally, keeping detailed records can help you track your spending habits and identify areas where you can save more in the future.

Utilize Per Diem Rates for Budgeting

Using per diem rates as a budgeting tool can help you manage your travel expenses effectively. Before your trip, calculate your total per diem allowance based on the number of days you will be traveling. This gives you a clear understanding of how much you can spend each day on lodging, meals, and incidental expenses. Sticking to this budget helps you avoid overspending and ensures you stay within the allowed per diem rates. Knowing your daily allowance also makes it easier to make informed decisions about where to stay and where to eat.

Understand Your Employer’s Policies

Familiarize yourself with your employer’s travel reimbursement policies to avoid any surprises. Some employers may have specific requirements or limitations regarding per diem reimbursements. For example, they might require you to stay at certain hotels or use specific transportation methods. Understanding these policies helps you comply with your employer’s guidelines and ensures a smooth reimbursement process. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask your HR department or travel coordinator for clarification. Knowing these details in advance can save you time and hassle when submitting your expense report.

• What : Per diem rates help manage business travel expenses in San Diego.
• So What : Ensures you budget right and get reimbursed without personal costs.
• Pros & Cons : Pros: Simplified reimbursement, easier budgeting; Cons: Rates vary by location and season.
• Bottom Line : Know the rates and employer policies to maximize your travel budget.

Ready to simplify your business travel and payroll management? Visit Homebase today and take the hassle out of managing your team’s travel expenses and payroll.

Remember:  This is not legal advice. If you have questions about your particular situation, please consult a lawyer, CPA, or other appropriate professional advisor or agency.

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Is Aberdeen expensive to visit?

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How much does it cost to travel to Aberdeen?

You should plan to spend around $155 (£121) per day on your vacation in Aberdeen. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $44 (£35) on meals
• $44 (£34) on local transportation
• $165 (£129) on hotels

A one week trip to Aberdeen for two people costs, on average, $2,169 (£1,695) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 155 £ 121
• One Week Per person $ 1,084 £ 848
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 2,169 £ 1,695
• One Month Per person $ 4,648 £ 3,632
• One Week For a couple $ 2,169 £ 1,695
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 4,338 £ 3,390
• One Month For a couple $ 9,295 £ 7,264

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Aberdeen cost?

A one week trip to Aberdeen usually costs around $1,084 (£848) for one person and $2,169 (£1,695) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Aberdeen on average costs around $2,169 (£1,695) for one person and $4,338 (£3,390) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Aberdeen will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Aberdeen on average costs around $4,648 (£3,632) for one person and $9,295 (£7,264) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Aberdeen has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Prices in Aberdeen are reasonable and comparable to your average travel destination. Hotels, food, and sightseeing are generally within normal price ranges.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Aberdeen is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Finale Ligure or Sestri Levante.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Aberdeen Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Aberdeen?

The average Aberdeen trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Aberdeen travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Aberdeen

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Aberdeen is $83 (£65). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Aberdeen is $165 (£129). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 83 £ 65
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 165 £ 129

Hotel Prices in Aberdeen

Looking for a hotel in Aberdeen? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Aberdeen based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $76. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Premier Inn Aberdeen Airport - Dyce Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 70
• The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 178

Transportation Budget in Aberdeen

The cost of a taxi ride in Aberdeen is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $44 (£34) per person, per day, on local transportation in Aberdeen.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 44 £ 34

Recommended Services

• Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer Viator $ 57
• Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation Viator $ 49

Flights to Aberdeen

Rental cars in aberdeen, food budget in aberdeen.

While meal prices in Aberdeen can vary, the average cost of food in Aberdeen is $44 (£35) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Aberdeen should cost around $18 (£14) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Aberdeen is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 44 £ 35

Entertainment Budget in Aberdeen

Entertainment and activities in Aberdeen typically cost an average of $24 (£19) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 24 £ 19

Recommended Activities

• 3 hour Gin School Experience in Aberdeen Viator $ 154
• Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour Viator $ 60

Alcohol Budget in Aberdeen

The average person spends about $4.57 (£3.57) on alcoholic beverages in Aberdeen per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 4.57 £ 3.57

Recommended

• Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour Viator $ 35
• Aberdeen: Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink Get Your Guide $ 35

Related Articles

Aberdeen on a budget.

Neighborhoods

Food and dining, transportation, more related articles.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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