Leah Amos
17 November 2024
Christmas in Scotland is where historic cities, cosy villages, and snowy landscapes come alive with festive cheer. From Edinburgh’s sparkling Christmas lights to the Highlands' snow-capped peaks, each town and city offers its own blend of traditions, markets, and winter activities.
Whether you are ice skating beneath Edinburgh Castle, sipping mulled cider in Glasgow, or spotting reindeer in Aviemore, Scotland’s top festive spots cater to every taste. Families, couples, and solo travellers alike can enjoy Christmas villages, hearty Scottish dishes, and scenic winter walks.
This guide covers the top 10 places to experience Christmas in Scotland, featuring must-see attractions, local treats, and recommended stays. Find the ideal Scottish holiday setting to match your festive plans, whether it’s a bustling city break or a peaceful countryside escape.
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Edinburgh
Edinburgh is the ultimate destination for a world-famous Christmas in Scotland. The iconic Edinburgh Christmas Market features rows of cosy wooden chalets offering handmade gifts, artisanal crafts, and a mouth-watering selection of festive treats. Families can enjoy attractions like the Christmas tree maze and ice skating rink, while thrillseekers can take on the iconic Ferris wheel, offering panoramic views of the city skyline. To learn more about Edinburgh, visit our guide.
With festive concerts at St. Giles’ Cathedral, bustling street performers, and inviting cafes offering seasonal treats, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. To make your holiday truly memorable, browse our cottages in Edinburgh for a nearby stay with easy access to Edinburgh’s magical Christmas celebrations.
Glasgow
Glasgow’s vibrant Christmas atmosphere is a true delight, with bustling markets, dazzling festive lights, and a fantastic lineup of winter events. Known for its lively art and music scene, this energetic city offers an upbeat experience of Christmas in Scotland. The annual Glasgow Christmas Market at St Enoch Square brings together an array of international food, crafts, and festive gifts, creating a unique shopping experience with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Beyond the markets, there is plenty to do in Glasgow. The renowned museums and galleries, such as the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, come alive with seasonal exhibitions and events. For music lovers, the city’s venues host festive concerts, from classical performances to modern holiday hits, adding to the vibrant Christmas cheer. To make your holiday truly special, browse our cottages in Glasgow for a cosy retreat close to the city.
Good to know
- Top tip: Visit Glasgow’s West End for a more intimate, cosy holiday experience away from the crowds
- Must see: George Square’s Christmas lights and St Enoch Square’s Christmas Market, also known as ‘Glasgow Winterfest’
- Must try: A bratwurst from the market and local Glasgow mulled gin
- Stay nearby: Kirklands Farm Cottage | sleeps 2
Stirling
Stirling is a delightful choice for a Christmas break, offering a cosy, historical setting with plenty of festive charm. Under the watchful eye of Stirling Castle, the city’s medieval streets come alive with twinkling lights and seasonal cheer, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for a winter escape. While less bustling than Edinburgh, there are many reasons to visit Stirling with its own charming Christmas market, where you can find unique Scottish gifts, artisanal treats, and mulled wine.
The city’s compact size means it’s easy to explore at your own pace, soaking up the holiday spirit without the crowds. After a day of festive activities, unwind in one of our inviting cottages, where you can cosy up by the fire with views of snow-dusted hills beyond. For a Christmas in Scotland filled with history, enchanting lights, and peaceful evenings, book your perfect holiday cottage in Stirling today.
Good to know
- Top tip: Explore Stirling Castle, which hosts seasonal events and provides beautiful views over the snowy countryside
- Must see: Stirling’s Christmas Village at King’s Park, featuring an ice rink and festive market stalls
- Must try: Traditional Scottish whisky at one of the cosy pubs, like The Settle Inn
- Stay nearby: Drummond Cottage | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
Inverness
Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, makes for an enchanting Christmas destination, especially for those seeking a quieter, scenic holiday steeped in natural beauty. From Inverness, you can explore the iconic Loch Ness, shrouded in wintry mist and legend. Imagine wrapping up warmly for a peaceful lakeside walk, with the chance of spotting Nessie.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Great Glen Way is an absolute highlight. This long-distance trail begins in Inverness, winding its way through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes, including sweeping views over snowy Highland peaks. After a day of adventure, return to one of our charming cottages for a cosy evening by the fire. To book your perfect Christmas break in Inverness, browse our cottages.
Good to know
- Top tip: Take a walk along the River Ness and through the Ness Islands for a peaceful winter stroll with magical Christmas lights
- Must see: Eden Court Theatre’s festive shows and pantomimes, perfect for families
- Must try: Cullen skink, a traditional Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, found in many local restaurants including Aye Eat
- Stay nearby: The Ardross Residence | sleeps 4
Aberdeen
Aberdeen is a fantastic Christmas destination in Scotland, offering a festive yet laid-back atmosphere perfect for a winter getaway. Known as the Granite City, its striking architecture glistens under holiday lights, creating a magical scene throughout the city.
The Christmas Village on Broad Street becomes a lively hub of seasonal cheer, with charming market stalls, warming mulled wine, and an ice rink for a touch of winter fun. Stroll through the festively decorated streets, explore the ruined castles of Aberdeenshire, and soak up the unique seasonal charm. For a cosy retreat after a day of festive delights, browse our cottages in Aberdeenshire.
Good to know
- Top tip: Embark on the Christmas Light-up Trail, featuring 12 dazzling decorations scattered across the city centre – this self-guided tour is perfect for festive photos
- Must see: Aberdeen Christmas Village, set against the stunning backdrop of Marischal College on Broad Street, with its ice rink, fairground rides, and local food stalls
- Must try: Scottish tablet, a traditional sweet, available at many of the market stalls
- Stay nearby: The Coach House | sleeps 8 + 2 dogs
Perth
Perth, fondly known as the “Gateway to the Highlands,” is a magical choice for a Christmas holiday, offering a cosy escape with all the charm of a festive winter scene. Imagine wandering through Perth’s delightful Christmas markets, where you’ll find handmade crafts, seasonal treats, and warming mulled drinks. The city’s wintry riverside walks along the Tay and its beautifully decorated streets add to the Christmas magic, creating an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a holiday film. For a peaceful retreat after exploring Perth’s seasonal delights, browse our selection of charming cottages in Perthshire.
Good to know
- Top tip: A short drive from Perth's city centre; Scone Palace is steeped in history and often hosts special events during the Christmas season
- Must see: Perth Christmas Cabin Trail, where you’ll find local crafts and unique gifts
- Must try: Perthshire’s local honey and handmade chocolates from local vendors
- Stay nearby: West Powbridge | sleeps 6 + 2 dogs
Pitlochry
Pitlochry, nestled in the heart of Perthshire’s stunning landscapes, offers a truly enchanting setting for a quiet, nature-inspired Christmas in Scotland. This quaint town, renowned for its Victorian charm and welcoming community, transforms into a winter wonderland, surrounded by snow-capped hills, sparkling lochs, and ancient woodlands.
Wander through Pitlochry’s cosy streets, where festive lights add a magical glow to traditional shops and local cafés. Nearby, explore scenic trails perfect for peaceful winter walks, or visit the famous Pitlochry Dam, a beautiful sight in winter. For a cosy retreat amid natural beauty, browse our cottages in Pitlochry.
Good to know
- Top tip: The Christmas Emporium offers a wide range of Christmas decorations and gifts, allowing you to bring a piece of Pitlochry's festive spirit back home
- Must see: Pitlochry's streets are adorned with vibrant LED lights throughout the festive season, creating a magical ambience
- Must try: A dram of whisky from the local distillery
- Stay nearby: 4 Viewbank Gardens | sleeps 3 + 2 dogs
Oban
Oban, the enchanting ‘Gateway to the Isles’ offers a unique seaside setting for a memorable Scottish Christmas. This charming coastal town is filled with festive cheer, from twinkling harbour lights to bustling local shops. Imagine a crisp winter stroll along the waterfront, with views of the islands on the horizon and the fresh sea breeze adding to the festive spirit.
Oban’s ferries provide easy access to explore nearby islands, such as Mull and Iona, where you can experience the wild, rugged beauty of the Hebrides. For a cosy Christmas retreat, browse our Oban cottages.
Good to know
- Top tip: Visit McCaig’s Tower for panoramic views over the town and its Christmas lights
- Must see: Oban Distillery, which offers winter tours and tastings of their famed single malt
- Must try: Freshly caught seafood from one of Oban’s famous seafood shacks
- Stay nearby: Number Three | sleeps 5 + 2 dogs
Aviemore
Aviemore, tucked into the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, is a dream destination for a snowy Christmas packed with adventure. This vibrant winter sports hub offers everything from skiing and snowboarding to scenic winter hikes, making it ideal for those who love the outdoors.
Surrounded by snow-dusted mountains and frosted forests, Aviemore feels like a true winter wonderland, perfect for festive gatherings and cosy evenings by the fire. After a day on the slopes or exploring nearby trails, return to one of our warm, inviting cottages. To make this magical winter escape yours, browse our cottages in Aviemore.
Good to know
- Top tip: Book ski passes and lessons in advance, as it’s a popular activity during Christmas
- Must see: The Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, where you can meet a herd of reindeer and even participate in herding activities
- Must try: A hot toddy at one of Aviemore’s cosy pubs after a day on the slopes
- Stay nearby: Pilmuir | sleeps 8 + 1 dog
Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye offers a truly enchanting Christmas escape, perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path holiday experience. Known for its dramatic landscapes, Skye’s rugged mountains, windswept cliffs, and serene lochs take on a magical quality in winter.
Imagine peaceful walks through misty glens, the sight of snow-capped peaks in the distance, and cosy evenings exploring Isle of Syke’s distilleries. This quiet island is ideal for a reflective, nature-filled holiday, where each view feels like a postcard. For a cosy retreat amid awe-inspiring beauty, browse our cottages in Skye.
Good to know
- Top tip: Take a winter drive along Skye’s scenic routes for breathtaking views of the snow-dusted Cuillin Mountains
- Must see: The Fairy Pools, with mystical blue waters, take on a magical quality in the winter months
- Must try: Crispy deep-fried balls of haggis with a whisky cream sauce from The Clanchan in Broadford
- Stay nearby: Camus Cottage | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
Map of places to spend Christmas in Scotland
To make your Scottish Christmas adventure even easier, we’ve created a map of our top 10 places to celebrate the season across Scotland. With this map, you can plan a route to experience Scotland’s best holiday markets, light displays, and cosy villages, ensuring a Christmas filled with unforgettable sights and seasonal joy.
Stay in Scotland this Christmas
Each of these destinations in Scotland offers a unique twist on a Christmas celebration. Whether you’re after a festive city break or a peaceful countryside retreat, Scotland’s towns, cities, and islands provide a range of holiday experiences that blend tradition, scenery, and festive cheer. From iconic landmarks like Edinburgh’s Christmas Market to the secluded beauty of the Isle of Skye, Christmas in Scotland promises memorable moments for all ages.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.