Scotland is a cultural destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Scotland?
A typical traveler spends $236 (£173) per day on a trip to Scotland. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Scotland based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $86 (£63) on meals
- $51 (£38) on local transportation
- $195 (£143) on hotels
A one-week trip to Scotland for two people costs, on average, $3,302 (£2,422). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
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One Week
Per person
$1,651
£1,211
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$3,302
£2,422
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One Month
Per person
$7,076
£5,190
-
One Week
For a couple
$3,302
£2,422
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$6,605
£4,844
-
One Month
For a couple
$14,153
£10,380
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Scotland cost?
A one week trip to Scotland usually costs around $1,651 (£1,211) for one person and $3,302 (£2,422) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Scotland on average costs around $3,302 (£2,422) for one person and $6,605 (£4,844) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Scotland will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Scotland on average costs around $7,076 (£5,190) for one person and $14,153 (£10,380) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Scotland expensive to visit?
In Scotland, budget travelers spend $93 (£70) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $230 (£173) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $548 (£413) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Scotland.
Scotland is a charming destination that draws in visitors with an array of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary choices. Budget-conscious travelers will find suitable hotel options, but there are also high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, plus mid-range accommodations for families or couples.
Scotland can definitely get expensive if you let it, but you have options to reduce costs, including looking for discounts and coupons.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Scotland is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to many other destinations.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Scotland Expensive?
Edinburgh, Scotland
How much money do I need for a trip to Scotland?
The average Scotland trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Scotland travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Scotland cost?
Scotland on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$40
(£29)
|
$98
(£72)
|
$230
(£169)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$20
(£15)
|
$51
(£38)
|
$130
(£95)
|
|
Food2
|
$35
(£26)
|
$86
(£63)
|
$202
(£148)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$15
(£11)
|
$36
(£26)
|
$84
(£62)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$4-11
(£3-8)
|
$9-28
(£7-20)
|
$24-72
(£18-53)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget in Scotland. While many think they can cut costs for many things, the reality is that most people won't enjoy such a low-budget experience. Consider your preferences and travel style. Do you like resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are activities and dining out a big part of your travel plans? Your answers will shape your budget and itinerary.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $93 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
So, are you average?
As a couple or family looking for fun, you're likely to choose a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions with entry fees. Many visitors to Scotland are keen to visit the prominent attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities do cost money. Therefore, it's sensible to expect your daily budget to be approximately $230 per person, per day.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If a complete vacation with all amenities and a higher level of service is what you want, expect to allocate around $548 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, dine at award-winning establishments, treat yourself to extravagant excursions, and hire taxis or private drivers to navigate the destination, a luxury budget will be necessary. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private One-Way Transfer from Glasgow Int. Airport to Glasgow - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Scotland
In Scotland, hotel prices can swing drastically. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury, but come at a cost, especially in peak season when prices are higher. Off-season prices are more reasonable, averaging $, but during peak season they jump to an average of $. You can find budget options starting at $ up to luxury rates at $. Hostels are typically cheaper, especially dorms. Book early and avoid peak season to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Scotland for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $195 (£143). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $98 (£72) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Scotland? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
By avoiding the peak season and traveling in the low or shoulder seasons, you will be rewarded with lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds.
Transportation Budget in Scotland
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $51 (£38) per person, per day, on local transportation in Scotland. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Scotland is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$51
£38
If you're looking to travel between major cities in Scotland, the simplest solution is by bus or rail. These systems are completely modern and very comfortable for travelers.
While a car will grant you greater access to small towns, the highlands or the mountains, beware that rural roads are very beaten up. If you plan on renting a car, keep a keen eye on the road, and remember they drive on the left in Scotland.
If you're driving, it's essential to check if your hotel offers convenient parking.
How much does it cost to go to Scotland? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Scotland will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Scotland
Tasting the local cuisine is a key reason for travel, so be sure to sample the unique dishes offered in the area.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Scotland can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Scotland is $86 (£63) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$86
£63
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Scotland is around $84 (£63) per person, with previous travelers spending from $34 to $197. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Scotland are as follows:
- Breakfast: $8 to $25
- Lunch: $13 to $34
- Dinner: $25 to $59
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $13
The Scots aren't exactly known for their cuisine, but there are many new restaurants bringing global influences to the country. Some Scottish dishes, however, are worth a try. Scotch beef, for example is some of the best in the world. A Scotch egg is a hard boiled egg surrounded by breaded sausage. Of course, you can't forget the traditional haggis made of the heart, liver and lungs of a sheep cooked in the stomach. End any Scottish meal with the joke-turned-tradition of a deep friend Mars bar.
A lot of hotels include breakfast in their price, but some may add it as an extra charge. The price and quality can differ from one hotel to the next. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you figure out if you'll need to shell out more money. The hotel buffet could be delicious, or you might opt for a more affordable treat at a nearby bakery or cafe.
Instead of buying drinks, bring a water bottle. It's also an environmentally friendly option.
Before embarking on a tour, ensure you know which meals are included. You might have to pay for some food yourself, and that can add to your travel expenses.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Scotland
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Scotland typically cost an average of $36 (£26) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$36
£26
Scotland's a place full of storybook scenes and dramatic castles at every turn. There is always something to see, but the main highlights should include:
The region known as the Great Glen is known for its historical, strategic importance – which is obvious in all of the castles and homes found there. It is a place of nostalgia, intrigue and mystery as this is also home to Loch Ness and its notorious monster.
There's no way to visit the city of Edinburgh without seeing the Edinburgh castle. This popular tourist attraction has dominated city's skyline for 800 years. Over the centuries, it has stood as a royal palace to a prison and today it stands as a national icon and the home to the Scottish Crown Jewels.
For a truly humbling moment with nature, travel to the Isle of Skye. With towering, jagged mountains, wild coastline, farms, waterfalls and a castle, you'll feel like the only thing missing from this fairy tale sight are the fairies.
And if getting in a bit of culture is on your list, make a visit to the National Gallery of Scotland in Edinburgh. This is truly one of the finest galleries in the world housing works from Raphael, Rembrandt, Monet and ore.
As Scotland is a popular destination for most travelers, there is no shortage of activities available around the country. However, there are some uniquely Scottish things to do while visiting.
If you're even a little bit interested in golf, you'll want to try to get a tee time at St. Andrews. People have been putting on these greens since the 15th century. Be sure to book in advance – months in advance - or risk leaving your chances up to the very popular lottery.
Scotland is the home to hundreds of brands of whiskey. Every village makes its own particular taste of whiskey, and with at least 50 distilleries open to visitors you'll have no problem making an afternoon of sampling the local flavors.
Any active traveler will want to take full advantage of all the hills to climb in this part of the world. Take a trip to the popular Westland Highland Way for a stroll, or pick up a copy of the National Tourist Board's free Scotland Walks guide showcasing all the walks available in the country.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Scotland. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Errichel Farm Tour for $19 details
- Whisky Explorer Experience for $82 details
- Birks of Aberfeldy: Highlands and the Tay Self Guided Audio Tour for $6 details
Nightlife Budget in Scotland
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $19 (£14) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Scotland per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$19
£14
Exploring the nightlife is often a fun part of any trip, but skipping a few drinks can make a big impact on your overall travel cost.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Scotland. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Aberfeldy Distillery Experience for $26 details
- From Edinburgh: Glenkinchie Distillery Tour & Whisky Tasting for $74 details
Travel cost data last updated: Aug 12, 2025
Traveling in Scotland
Scottish Highlands
The enchanting country of Scotland is made of rolling hills, lush scenery, charming villages and pubs filled with think accents and strong pints.
This country is a part of Great Britain - also known as the United Kingdom - which includes England, Wales and Northern Ireland. So be careful not to refer to the Scottish as "British," and especially avoid referring to them as "English." Just being aware of the difference will make your trip much smoother.
This lively and friendly country has gained a reputation for being dreary and damp. Well, the latter might true, it doesn't stop the Scots from having a grand time. Still, prepare to experience plenty of rain on your trip.
With over 700 islands and 5 million people, you'll have no problem finding stunning scenery and delightful conversation.
Regions
The country of Scotland is officially divided into 32 different counties. However, for the purposes of your visit, you'll really only need to know the different regions. The Borders region is sits on the border of England and is known for its rolling hills and former battlefields. The South West region is home to the Isle of Arran, while the Central Belt includes the largest portion of the population with Glasgow and Edinburgh. The Highlands are a popular area to visit for its stunning mountain ranges in the northwest. The North East Scotland region is full of scenic farmland, fishing ports, dramatic castles and the cities of Aberdeen and Dundee. The islands in the north west of the country are split into the three regions of Hebrides, Orkney Islands and Shetland Islands.
Related
Scotland is a large country with plenty of beautiful landscapes and wilderness to see. If you want to see everything,
read this 7-day itinerary for ScotlandTraveling alone to London or Edinburgh?
Looking for a party and need a hostel in London?
Find a Contiki tour to Europe.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
I love the small towns and nature that Scotland offers. Many towns are overlooked by tourists, so they have affordable hotels with local charm.