With the development of travel and tourism industry throughout the world, more and more people plan their vacations abroad to explore new destinations, get acquainted with new cultures and discover new ways of life. To make this a reality, most people work hard for a whole year to save money for their travel needs, while others make use of Individual Savings Accounts (ISA), an ideal way to save tax free. Halifax is UK’s largest provider of residential mortgages and savings accounts, so you can take advantage of ISA from Halifax and make your travel dreams come true.
Visiting Scotland is on the radar of many travelers, as the country is convenient and easy both from the rest of the UK and overseas with plenty of options. A country of great variety and rich heritage, Scotland has much to be proud of: it is distinguished from the rest of the UK by its abundant lochs, spectacularly beautiful mountains and hills, as well as is home to more than 780 fascinating islands, including Shetlands and the Hebrides among others, a variety of ports, which make it a perfect cruise destination, not to mention the country’s great trails, a wealth of museums and art galleries, superb shopping opportunities and stunning local food and drink. Scotland is also boasts unique cities, each with its own attractions and things to do and qualities to suit different tastes. Read on to get acquainted with the major cities in Scotland that are a must for any visitor to this truly amazing country.
Edinburgh
One of the most attractive places in the UK to live, study and do business, Edinburgh – the Scottish capital, is also one of the most appealing and historic cities of the country, best-known for its stunning architecture, international festivals, as well as extraordinary blend of shopping and fantastic historical and cultural attractions alongside many great restaurants and clubs ready to create a lively atmosphere.
As for the must-sees in Edinburgh, the iconic Edinburgh Castle is perhaps the best attraction to start with, showcasing the Scottish Crown Jewels and the small room where Mary, Queen of Scots gave birth to the famous James VI. If you are in Edinburgh with your kids, make sure to pay a visit to the recently refurbished National Museum of Scotland, as well as catch the Penguin Parade in Edinburgh Zoo – one of the top family-friendly spots in any Edinburgh itinerary. Do not miss out to stroll through Princes Street Gardens and the Royal Botanic Garden; swim at Portobello Baths; and take in the views from ‘Edinburgh disgrace.’
Glasgow
The third most populous city in the UK and the largest in Scotland, Glasgow is set on the banks of the mighty River Clyde and is often referred to as the ‘Second Capital.’ The city is a wonderful destination to visit in the United Kingdom with an abundance of beautiful sites and activities to indulge in. Today, the city is a successful center of modern technology, and boasts magnificent scenery, along with a full range of entertainment throughout the year. Those interested in interesting architecture will find the Glasgow Cathedral, Provand’s Lorship, Merchant City and the City Chambers great places to visit, while for nature lovers the city’s lush countryside provides visitors with great photographic opportunities.
Perth
Perth is also in the list of the most popular Scottish cities and has much to offer its tourists in terms of shopping, attractions and recreation. Here visitors will find two huge parks, providing golf and boating, majestic castles, including Huntingtower Castle, former seat of the earls of Gowrie and Elcho Castle, former seat of the Wemyss family, add to this a wealth of dining venues to satisfy your hunger.
Stirling
Easily accessible by road and rail from Edinburgh and Glasgow, the city of Sterling is another major tourist destination, visited by thousands of travelers from different parts of the world, who come to see such places of interest as Stirling Castle, Stirling Bridge and Wallance Monument to name but a few. The city is a great choice for a day excursion and has is sure to make your city break one to remember for a long time. Not to be missed is Strathyre, which is a true nature lover’s paradise.
Other popular cities in Scotland include the multi-faceted city of Aberdeen, blessed with a variety of attractions from distilleries and castles to such destinations as Elgin, Banff and Cruden Bay; Dundee – a beautiful city with many discoveries and Inverness – the northernmost major city of Scotland, which today is a thriving modern town and commercial center.
