Scotland’s high season is short. Accommodations are hard to come by and narrow Highland roads are congested. Book at least 6-8 months in advance for stays during the Edinburgh Festival (August).
Off Season: October to March
Excepting those individuals who book a year ahead for Glasgow and Edinburgh’s famous Hogmanay celebrations on December 31st (be aware that storms sometimes interfere with these shenanigans), short, dark, rainy days keep most visitors away.
Sweet Spot: April to June; September
Often blessed with surprisingly pleasant weather, shoulder season allows you to see Scotland without summer’s hordes. Just bring bug spray: midges, bane of the Scotland’s Highlands, are out en force.
