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All visitors must have a valid passport. It's recommended that your passport be valid for the duration of your stay. Some airlines may require at least six months' validity, so check with your carrier before traveling.

As of January 8, 2025, travellers from visa-exempt countries (including the USA, Canada, Australia, and EU nations) must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the UK, including Scotland.

If you're from a country that requires a visa to enter the UK, you'll need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa. This visa allows stays of up to six months for purposes such as tourism, business, or short-term study.

Gratuity (tipping) in Scotland is appreciated but not obligatory, and it's generally more modest than in countries like the United States. Here's a breakdown of common tipping practices:

Restaurants and Cafés
If service charge is included: No additional tip is expected. Check the bill for a "service charge" (typically 10–12.5%).

If no service charge: A tip of 10–15% is customary if the service was good.

Cafés and casual dining: Tipping is less expected, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated.

Hotels
Porters: £1–£2 per bag.

Housekeeping: £1–£2 per night, especially for longer stays.

Concierge: Tip based on effort—£5–£10 for significant help (like restaurant reservations or event bookings).

Taxis
Round up to the nearest pound or add 5–10%.

For longer trips or great service, a larger tip is appreciated but not required.

Tour Guides and Drivers
Group tours: £5–£10 per person per day for guides; £2–£5 for drivers.

Private tours: £10–£20+ per day, depending on length and level of service.

Other Services (Spa, Hairdresser, etc.)
Typically 5–10% or round up if you're happy with the service.

Key Notes
Tipping in cash is often preferred.

There's no tipping culture in fast food or self-service venues.

No one will be offended if you don't tip, but kind gestures are always appreciated.

Scotland’s weather is famously changeable, often described as having “four seasons in one day.” Here's a general overview by season:

Spring (March to May)
Temperature: 7°C to 15°C (45°F to 59°F)

Weather: Milder, with longer days and blooming landscapes. Rain is still common, especially in the west.

Tip: Pack layers and a light waterproof jacket.

Summer (June to August)
Temperature: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), occasionally warmer in the Lowlands

Weather: Long daylight hours (up to 18 hours in the north), especially in June. Generally mild with occasional warm spells and scattered rain.

Tip: Ideal time for hiking, festivals, and island visits. Bring sunglasses and a raincoat.

Autumn (September to November)
Temperature: 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F)

Weather: Colourful foliage, cooling temperatures, increasing rain and wind.

Tip: A great time for whisky distillery tours and fewer crowds.

Winter (December to February)
Temperature: 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F)

Weather: Cold, wet, and often windy. Snow in the Highlands, especially good for skiing (e.g. Cairngorms or Glencoe).

Tip: Short days (sunset as early as 3:30 pm), so plan daylight activities accordingly.

General Tips
Rain is possible any time of year – waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes are essential.

The west coast is wetter than the east due to Atlantic weather systems.

The Highlands and islands are cooler and windier than the Lowlands.