Snow-dusted glen in Glencoe under low cloud

When to go

The best time to visit Scotland.

Short answer: May or September. Long days, fewer midges, fewer people, and the weather is often at its most settled.

The honest answer depends on what you want. Summer gives you almost endless light but full car parks. Winter is magical in Edinburgh and hopeless for a Skye loop. Use the calendar below to match the month to the trip.

The calendar

When is it best for…

JJanFFebMMarAAprMMayJJunJJulAAugSSepOOctNNovDDec

Highlands

Castles

Whisky

Islands

Walking

Food

Countryside

Outlander

Harry Potter

Cities

Wildlife

Beaches

BestGoodPossibleNot recommendedOur planning view, not a guarantee. Always check opening dates and ferry timetables.

Month by month

January
Cities, whisky and firesides. Don't plan big Highland drives.
About 7 hrs lightMidges: NoneQuiet
February
Snowy hills and empty roads, if you accept short days.
About 9 hrs lightMidges: NoneQuiet
March
Days lengthen fast. Many attractions reopen late in the month or in April.
About 11 hrs lightMidges: NoneQuiet
April
A smart month: long days, no midges, Easter aside it's calm.
About 14 hrs lightMidges: NoneModerate
May
Our favourite month. Often the driest, very long days, few midges.
About 16 hrs lightMidges: LowModerate
June
Almost endless light. Midges arrive in the west Highlands.
About 17 hrs lightMidges: HighBusy
July
School holidays. Book Skye beds and ferries well ahead.
About 17 hrs lightMidges: HighVery busy
August
Festival month in Edinburgh. Heather in bloom. Busiest roads.
About 15 hrs lightMidges: HighVery busy
September
Crowds thin, midges fade, weather is often settled. Excellent.
About 13 hrs lightMidges: LowModerate
October
Autumn colour and rutting stags. Some attractions close mid-month.
About 10 hrs lightMidges: NoneModerate
November
Quietest month. Cities and short trips work best.
About 8 hrs lightMidges: NoneQuiet
December
Christmas markets and Hogmanay. Keep it to the cities.
About 7 hrs lightMidges: NoneModerate