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Scotland

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Travel Info
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Travel Info

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Scotland Weather and climate

Data source：Meteostat
Update date：2025-09

Scotland year round climate
  • Spring (March–May): Average 3.5–11.8°C, cold and damp climate, changeable weather is the norm, with occasional sunshine. Common activities: Hiking, visiting castles, enjoying the Scottish Highlands. Recommended clothing: Waterproof jacket, warm base layers, comfortable hiking shoes.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 10.6–12.3°C, cool climate, more sunny days, but showers are still possible. Common activities: Outdoor activities, golf, exploring islands. Recommended clothing: Lightweight breathable jacket, long-sleeved shirts, comfortable shoes.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 7.4–9.7°C, gradually cooling climate, increasing rainfall, changeable weather. Common activities: Visiting museums, art galleries, whisky tasting. Recommended clothing: Warm jacket, waterproof clothing, comfortable shoes.
  • Winter (December–February): Average 0.7–3.5°C, cold climate, damp, cold and windy, less rainfall. Common activities: Indoor activities, visiting the National Museum of Scotland, enjoying city life. Recommended clothing: Heavy warm jacket, waterproof clothing, scarf, hat, gloves.
Scotland climatological average

Annual average temperature: approx. 6.9°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 42 mm / Summer humidity: 60%–70% / Rainiest month: December

Scotland monthly average temperature and precipitation
Month
Air temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
January
0.7°C
4.7
February
3°C
4.5
March
3.5°C
3.6
April
5.4°C
3.9
May
11.8°C
2.9
June
10.6°C
2.4
July
12.3°C
2.1
August
11.9°C
4.3
September
9.7°C
2.4
October
7.4°C
3.2
November
3.4°C
2.1
December
3.5°C
6
Scotland weather for the next seven days
10/27
Monday
Patchy rain nearby
6.8°C/1°C
10/28
Tuesday
Patchy rain nearby
7.5°C/2.5°C
10/29
Wednesday
Moderate rain
5.3°C/0.2°C
10/30
Thursday
Moderate rain
5.9°C/-3.5°C
10/31
Friday
Heavy rain
8.2°C/5.2°C
11/1
Saturday
Moderate rain
9.1°C/6.6°C
11/2
Sunday
Patchy rain nearby
5.8°C/4.4°C

Scotland FAQ

What is the best month to visit Scotland?
The best months to visit Scotland are during its shoulder seasons, May, June, September, and October, offering pleasant weather, beautiful scenery like spring blooms or fall colors, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices compared to the busy summer months. However, the "best" month depends on your priorities: Summer (July and August) is for lively festivals and longer daylight but also the peak tourist season and cost; Winter (November to March) is best for budget travelers, Northern Lights, or snow sports but with shorter days and closed attractions. May and June offer long daylight hours, blooming wildflowers, good for wildlife watching, and the start of the Highland Games, though midges can be a nuisance. September and October provide beautiful fall colors.
How many days is enough in Scotland?
You need a minimum of 3-5 days for a very quick trip focusing on Edinburgh and a single day trip to the Highlands, but 7-10 days is ideal for a first-time visit to experience both cities and the Highlands, allowing for a more comprehensive road trip. For deeper exploration into more remote areas like the northern Highlands, Orkney, or the Outer Hebrides, plan for two weeks or more to account for travel time and extensive sightseeing. A 7-10 day trip is best for a comprehensive road trip covering cities and the Highlands. Alternatively, you could visit the Isle of Arran for a condensed experience.
What do US citizens need to enter Scotland?
US citizens must have a valid passport and an ETA from 8 January 2025 before entering Scotland or the rest of the UK. This passport and ETA should be valid throughout your whole trip. You will also need a visa if you're planning to stay for over six months.
How expensive is a trip to Scotland?
A trip to Scotland can range from budget-friendly around $66-$100 per person per day to luxury over $328+ per person per day, excluding flights. Costs depend on factors like your choice of accommodation, whether you cook or dine out, and the types of activities you do. Expect to pay from $50 a night for a budget option to over $110 a night for a 5-star hotel or between $60-$200 for a B&B, depending on the season. You can save money by buying groceries and cooking, which can be as low as $10 per person per day. Many attractions are free, such as museums and hiking.
What are some must-see attractions in Scotland?
Scotland offers a wealth of iconic attractions. Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an ancient volcanic rock, is a historic fortress. The Royal Mile in Edinburgh is a historic street connecting the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Further afield, explore the dramatic landscapes of the Highlands, visit mysterious Loch Ness, and discover the ancient standing stones of Callanish on the Isle of Lewis. For a taste of whisky culture, a distillery tour is a popular choice.