This stunning city is recognised as the Scottish capital, with the main parliamentary and government buildings based here alongside several national institutions, such as the National Gallery of Scotland.

Popular creations such as the Harry Potter book franchise were inspired by this city, evident in the winding cobbled streets and gothic architecture. Enjoy a stroll along the Royal Mile, which is overlooked by the 11th-century Edinburgh Castle. We recommend hiking up Castlehill or better yet, heading to Arthur’s Seat – not a seat, exactly, but a small mountain with glorious views of the city. Other must-see areas of Edinburgh include Leith Waterway (where you can find the Bard Scotland gallery) and the flint-fronted cottages of Dean Village, reachable via a scenic riverside walk. 

A key element of the Scottish heritage is its mythology and folklore – unsurprising, given the unicorn is the national animal. From the Loch Ness monster, a water beast that resides in the Scottish Highlands, to the Kelpies and Selkies that roam the waters, there are stories around every corner of Scotland. We suggest visiting Inverness, Fort William, Aberdeen, or the Orkney or Shetland Islands for a taste of Celtic magic. 

A wonderful way to explore the best of Scotland’s heritage is by visiting its UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Head to the remote island of St Kilda to see a collection of natural sea stacks, which attract flocks of rare birds, or to the 2,000-year-old Antonine Wall which runs across central Scotland.

There’s so much to do and see here but deciding where to stay can be a challenge. We recommend booking a hotel that reflects the very best of the Scottish landscape, such as The Fife Arms, a former Victorian carriage inn, owned by the art gallery Hauser & Wirth, that provides a cosy stay in the Scottish Highlands just 10-minutes from Balmoral Castle, or the Greywalls Hotel & Chez Rouz, an elegant Edwardian estate and golf retreat in East Lothian. 

Of course, you can explore all of our luxury hotels in Scotland at ASMALLWORLD Collection, where you will receive VIP benefits such as a room upgrade, hotel credit and more at no additional cost!