Scotland is a popular country to visit, with more than 15 million individuals taking a holiday in the region throughout 2018 alone. The area’s sprawling countryside, castles, beaches, museums, and quiet roadsides give it an allure not many other places can offer. Traveling to Scotland is easy, whether you’re coming from abroad or domestically, but deciding how to view all the area has to offer can be a challenge.
Most travelers opt to travel through Scotland by train or car, mostly due to the scenic views. Some travel experts suggest hitting the railways or the roads makes for the best possible experience, and it provides more control over the journey. Here are a few tips for traveling in Scotland by train or vehicle, and how to ensure your holiday plans are best suited for you.
Tips for Traveling by Train
The Scottish rail system is well-known for its punctual schedules and countless destinations, making it a common choice among travelers in the area. ScotRail offers several different routes that focus on the scenic views Scotland has to offer. Great Scenic rail adventures go between Glasgow and Stranraer, Edinburgh and Tweedbank, and Inverness and Thurso, offering something for everyone.
The ScotRail system allows travelers to purchase tickets at any major station, as well as online. In some cases, offers are available for advance purchases. Train schedules are also available online, as well as tracking for upcoming trains and their destinations. Travelers can take in the most breathtaking scenic views on a budget with ScotRail, or enhance the experience with the luxury rides and tours offered through the Royal Scotsman.
Requirements for Car Travel
Another great option for traveling throughout Scotland is renting a car. Car rentals are available around major cities and travel hot spots, and the cost is well within most travelers’ budgets. Although renting a car to travel through Scotland is not expensive, you need to be prepared to meet the requirements. Travelers must be at least 23 years old with a valid driver’s license and a passport to show the rental agent. An international driver’s license is not required to rent a vehicle, however. Drivers should also take time to share preferences with the rental agent, such as manual or automatic transmission.
Once a vehicle is rented, travelers can hit the roads to just about anywhere in the area. The infamous Glasgow to Glen Coe drive is a two-hour journey that offers some of the most picturesque views of mountains in the region. Shorter car adventures may lead to castles, distilleries, or beaches, depending on the starting and destination points. Some of the roads can be narrow, but minimal traffic and plenty of safe stopping areas make traveling through Scotland by car a pleasant, often relaxing adventure.
Getting the best Holiday Deal
According to a travel expert from Money Pug, a website used to compare holidays, planning travel in the country is just as important as mapping out where to stay and the activities and tours to include in a trip. Many travel agents online offer holiday packages that include accommodations, transfers to and from airports or ports, as well as meals and beverages, tours, and excursions. Taking the time to compare these offers is a crucial part of planning, and makes enjoying Scotland that much easier.
Travelers may also want to consider their options for holiday travel insurance, also offered by several different providers. Travel insurance on a purchased holiday package can come in handy if accommodations or transportation is not as it was promised. This may represent an extra cost to an upcoming getaway, but it can be well worth it should an aspect of the holiday not go as planned.